Pennsylvania Statutes Title 63 P.S. Professions and Occupations (State Licensed) § 627.2. Definitions

The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Account.” The Professional Licensure Augmentation Account.

“Applicant.” An individual who applies for a license.

“Board.” The State Board of Massage Therapy.

“Bureau.” The Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs.

“Commissioner.” The Commissioner of Professional and Occupational Affairs.

“Conviction.” A judgment of guilt, an admission of guilt or a plea of nolo contendere.

“Department.” The Department of State of the Commonwealth.

“Healing arts.”The science and skill of diagnosis and treatment in any manner whatsoever of disease or any ailment of the human body.

“License.” A license to practice massage therapy under this act.

“Licensee.” An individual who holds a license to practice massage therapy.

“Massage therapist.”An individual licensed by the State Board of Massage Therapy to practice massage therapy.

“Massage therapy.”The application of a system of structured touch, pressure, movement, holding and treatment of the soft tissue manifestations of the human body in which the primary intent is to enhance the health and well-being of the client without limitation, except as provided in this act. The term includes the external application of water, heat, cold, lubricants or other topical preparations, lymphatic techniques, myofascial release techniques and the use of electro-mechanical devices which mimic or enhance the action of the massage techniques. The term does not include the diagnosis or treatment of impairment, illness, disease or disability, a medical procedure, a chiropractic manipulation--adjustment, physical therapy mobilization--manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound or prescription of medicines for which a license to practice medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, occupational therapy, podiatry or other practice of the healing arts is required.

“Reflexology.” The physical act of using thumbs, fingers and hand techniques to apply specific pressure on the reflex area in the feet, hands or ears of the client.