Arkansas Administrative Code Agency 059 - Arkansas Board of Massage Therapy
The Arkansas Administrative Code, Agency 059, pertains to the Arkansas Board of Massage Therapy, which is part of the Arkansas Department of Health. This agency is responsible for regulating and licensing massage therapists and schools within the state to ensure public safety and professional standards.
Key Regulations and Requirements
Licensing and Examinations
Education Requirement: Applicants must complete a minimum of 500 hours from a board-approved massage therapy school.
Examinations: The Department may administer its own licensing examination or accept the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards' Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx), provided the applicant passes a Department examination verifying knowledge of the Massage Therapy Act and related regulations. (amtamassage.org, regulations.justia.com)
Continuing Education
CEU Requirement: Massage therapists must complete 18 hours of continuing education biennially.
Course Approval: Courses must be pre-approved by the Department or be officially transcribed college-level courses in relevant subjects. (amtamassage.org, regulations.justia.com)
Disciplinary Actions
The Board may deny, suspend, or revoke a license for various reasons, including:
Conviction of a felony, Class A misdemeanor, or prostitution.
Malpractice or gross incompetency.
Engaging in unprofessional conduct.
Failure to comply with regulations. (law.justia.com)
Breast Tissue Massage
Massage of the breast is permitted only under specific conditions:
The massage is for therapeutic and medical purposes, such as post-surgical scar tissue reduction or improving lymphatic flow.
The therapist has received at least 48 hours of continuing education in relevant areas.
Prior written, signed consent is obtained from the client.
Treatments are documented in the client's assessment form. (law.cornell.edu)
Cupping Therapy
To practice cupping therapy, a massage therapist must have a minimum of 6 hours of in-class specialized training covering indications, contraindications, hygiene, and hands-on techniques. (law.cornell.edu)
Inspections and Enforcement
The Board has the authority to inspect massage therapy clinics and schools during operating hours to ensure compliance with regulations. (law.justia.com)
Contact Information
For more details or inquiries, you can contact the Arkansas Board of Massage Therapy at:
Address: 4815 W. Markham Street, Slot #8, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 683-1448
Email: info@arkansasmassagetherapy.com (healthy.arkansas.gov, amtamassage.org)
For the complete and most current rules and regulations, you can refer to the official publication:
Rules for Massage Therapy in Arkansas (PDF)
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