Massage Therapy Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the need for massage therapy nurses has never been greater.

As wellness takes center stage, the demand for skilled professionals who can deliver, enhance, and ensure quality therapeutic massage is growing.

But what does a massage therapy nurse’s job truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect job profile,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day tasks of a massage therapy nurse,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable massage therapy nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Massage Therapy Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Massage Therapy Nurses are health professionals who combine the art of massage with medical expertise to provide pain relief, stress reduction, and therapeutic relaxation to patients.

They are primarily responsible for providing specialized massage treatments to patients with a variety of health conditions, or simply for wellness and relaxation.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing patients’ health conditions and understanding their medical history to determine appropriate massage techniques
• Applying a variety of massage techniques to relieve muscle tension, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness
• Collaborating with doctors, physical therapists, and other medical professionals to design a customized massage treatment plan for patients
• Providing patients with guidance on stretching, strengthening, overall relaxation, and how to improve their posture
• Documenting patients’ conditions and progress, and updating their medical records
• Ensuring a clean and safe environment for massage treatments, and maintaining sanitation and health standards
• Staying updated with the latest research and trends in massage therapy and incorporating them into treatments
• Managing patient scheduling and processing payments for services
• Ordering massage therapy supplies and maintaining inventory

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Massage Therapy Nurse to join our team.

The primary role of the Massage Therapy Nurse is to utilize massage therapy techniques to enhance patient health and well-being.

The ideal candidate is knowledgeable about anatomy, physiology, and massage therapy principles.

They should also be able to assess patient needs, devise personalized treatment plans, and monitor patient progress.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct patient assessments and develop individualized treatment plans based on their needs
• Provide therapeutic massages using various techniques, such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage
• Coordinate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care
• Monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Maintain accurate patient records
• Ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable environment for patients
• Educate patients and their families about the benefits and risks of massage therapy

 

Qualifications

• Current nursing license and certification in massage therapy
• Proven work experience as a Massage Therapy Nurse
• Knowledge of various massage therapy techniques and their applications
• Ability to develop personalized treatment plans
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Understanding of patient confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Physical stamina and dexterity

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Massage Therapy Nurse
• Work Environment: Hospital or private practice. The role may involve standing for long periods and lifting or moving patients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nurse Manager or Head of Rehabilitation.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Massage Therapy Nurse Do?

A Massage Therapy Nurse, also known as a Registered Nurse (RN) with a specialization in massage therapy, typically works in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and clinics, or as independent practitioners in private practices or wellness centers.

Their role involves using specialized massage techniques to provide therapeutic relief to patients suffering from various health conditions such as chronic pain, stress, injuries, and other illnesses.

They may also utilize massage therapy to promote general wellness and relaxation.

They work closely with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to each patient’s individual needs.

A Massage Therapy Nurse’s job is to assess the patient’s condition, including their overall health and specific symptoms, and apply the most suitable massage therapy techniques accordingly.

They may also be responsible for educating patients and their families on the benefits of massage therapy and how it can complement other treatments or therapies.

Massage Therapy Nurses may also have to maintain patient records, update treatment plans as needed, and monitor patient progress over time.

Their goal is to improve patients’ physical and emotional well-being, enhance their quality of life, and help them achieve optimal health outcomes.

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Qualifications and Skills

A competent Massage Therapy Nurse should possess a unique blend of nursing knowledge, massage therapy skills, and patient-care abilities.

The necessary qualifications and skills include:

• Qualified as a Registered Nurse with a valid license and additional certification in Massage Therapy.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology to effectively deliver therapeutic massage treatments.
• Proficiency in various massage techniques, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, and others as relevant to patient needs.
• Experience in assessing patient health conditions, developing individualized therapy plans, and monitoring patient progress effectively.
• Excellent communication skills to explain treatment plans, get patient consent, and ensure patients are comfortable and informed throughout the therapy.
• Interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients and their families, fostering a healing environment.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and overcome obstacles that may arise during treatment, ensuring the highest standard of patient care.
• Physical stamina to stand for prolonged periods and use hands and arms to manipulate a patient’s muscles.
• Knowledge of safety and hygiene protocols to maintain a clean and safe treatment environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care.

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Experience Requirements

Massage Therapy Nurses, also known as Massage Therapists in Nursing, generally have a state-licensed certification in Massage Therapy or a related field.

They are expected to have significant theoretical and practical knowledge about various types of massages and their effect on the human body, gained through an accredited massage therapy program.

Entry-level candidates may have less than 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in a healthcare or wellness setting.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Spa Therapist, Rehabilitation Aide, or Physical Therapy Assistant.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Massage Therapy Nurse or Massage Therapist roles.

They may have expertise in a wide range of massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports, and prenatal massage.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have some supervisory experience in their background and may be ready for a team lead or managerial position.

They are expected to have a deep understanding of the human body, detailed knowledge of muscles and joints, and the ability to adapt their massage techniques to the needs of different patients.

In addition to the technical skills, a Massage Therapy Nurse must have strong communication skills, patience, empathy, and physical stamina to be successful in this role.

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Education and Training Requirements

Massage Therapy Nurses typically start their education with a diploma, associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

After completion of the nursing program, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to earn their registered nursing license.

Once the RN license has been obtained, nurses can then pursue specialization in massage therapy.

This typically involves completing a massage therapy program that is approved by the state or nationally accredited.

These programs offer theoretical knowledge and practical training in various massage techniques, anatomy, physiology and other related areas.

Upon completion of the massage therapy program, nurses must then pass a state exam or a national certification exam such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) exam to become a licensed massage therapist.

In addition to these educational and licensure requirements, massage therapy nurses should also have strong interpersonal skills, a caring and compassionate nature, and physical stamina, as the job can be physically demanding.

Continued education is often necessary in this field to stay updated with the latest techniques and research in massage therapy.

Some nurses may also choose to pursue advanced degrees or additional certifications in specialized areas of massage therapy.

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Salary Expectations

A Massage Therapy Nurse can expect to earn an average salary of approximately $47,200 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can fluctuate depending on factors such as the nurse’s experience, location, and the organization they are employed by.

Additional certifications and specializations in the field of massage therapy can also increase earning potential.

 

Massage Therapy Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Massage Therapy Nurse need?

A Massage Therapy Nurse should have excellent physical stamina and manual dexterity to perform massages effectively.

In addition, they need strong communication skills to understand their patient’s needs and medical conditions.

Knowledge of various therapeutic massage techniques and a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology are also critical.

 

Do Massage Therapy Nurses need a degree?

Yes, Massage Therapy Nurses need a nursing degree as well as additional training in massage therapy.

They must also hold a current Registered Nurse (RN) license.

Some may choose to pursue advanced training or certification in a specific type of massage therapy or complementary medicine.

 

What should you look for in a Massage Therapy Nurse’s resume?

Firstly, ensure they have an RN license and training in massage therapy.

Look for experience in providing massage therapy in a healthcare setting, as well as knowledge of different therapeutic massage techniques.

A background in pain management or rehabilitative care can be a plus.

Additional certifications in areas like sports massage, lymphatic drainage, or reflexology can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Massage Therapy Nurse?

A good Massage Therapy Nurse is patient, empathetic, and has a genuine desire to help others.

They should be physically fit, as the job often requires standing for long periods and applying physical pressure.

They must also have a solid understanding of patient safety and privacy regulations.

Good problem-solving skills are essential to customize massage techniques to individual patient needs.

 

How demanding is the job of a Massage Therapy Nurse?

The job can be physically demanding as it requires standing for long periods and applying varying degrees of pressure during massages.

It can also be emotionally demanding as they work with patients dealing with pain, stress, or illness.

However, many Massage Therapy Nurses find the job rewarding as they play a direct role in improving their patients’ well-being.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the world of what it truly means to be a massage therapy nurse.

And guess what?

It’s not just about kneading muscles.

It’s about healing patients, one therapy session at a time.

With our expertly curated massage therapy nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to embark on your journey.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each therapy session contributes to a patient’s overall well-being.

Let’s heal the world. Together.

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