massage therapy

noun

: the manipulation of the muscles and other soft tissues of the body (as by stroking, kneading, or rubbing with one or both hands or an instrument) by a massage therapist for therapeutic purposes (as to relieve pain, promote healing, or improve physical functioning)

Last year, 42 percent of American adults used some type of alternative care—herbal therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy or any of a number of other methods not taught in medical school, according to a nationwide telephone survey …

—Jane E. Brody

Examples of massage therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tucker, 35, who has been with the team since 2012, was accused in January of inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions by six women who spoke to The Baltimore Banner. —Phil Helsel, NBC news, 5 May 2025

Some of the main drugs used to treat it are muscle relaxants and anti-seizure medications for pain management, and people often supplement with physical therapy, myofascial release or massage therapy, and other therapies like acupuncture. —Mara Santilli, Flow Space, 3 Apr. 2025

Owners of establishments such as barbershops, hair and nail salons, and massage therapy could take a business tax credit for their share of payroll taxes on tips. —Howard Gleckman, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025

Hands-on treatments include foot reflexology massage, classical massage therapy, detox drainage and a natural detox hay pack. —Emily Burns, Footwear News, 24 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for massage therapy

• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy
• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• psychotherapy