Will insurance pay for a message?

Asked by: Kelley McClure DVM  |  Last update: October 20, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (45 votes)

Insurance will cover massage therapy if it's proven to be needed for medical reasons. Often, insurers require a doctor's referral or prescription for coverage qualification. The role of doctors is significant in diagnosing the medical need for massage therapy for those with diverse conditions.

Can massage be covered by insurance?

Massage therapy may be covered under insurance if it is deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider. To improve the chances of coverage, obtain a referral or prescription from your doctor specifying the medical condition being treated.

How to get free massages?

Bartering for a Massage
  1. Swap massages with a spouse or partner. One of the best ways to get a free massage is to swap massages with a loved one. ...
  2. Exchange massages with a friend. ...
  3. Promote the benefits of a massage. ...
  4. Barter with a Licensed Massage Therapist. ...
  5. Check your health insurance coverage.

How to get medically necessary massage?

Get your doctor to write a referral/prescription for massage therapy. Go to a massage place that accepts your insurance, which won't be Massage Envy, but instead a more therapeutic based place, often as part of a physical therapy business (look on your insurance website).

How to get insurance to pay for a massage chair?

Typically, this requires a doctor's prescription for the therapeutic chair. Also, the insurance company will usually require that the chair be considered DME (durable medical equipment) under the plan terms.

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37 related questions found

Can a massage chair be a medical expense?

Therefore, if your healthcare provider prescribes the use of a massage chair to address a specific medical condition, such as chronic back pain or muscle tension, it may qualify as a deductible medical expense.

What is the difference between massage and medical massage?

Although medical massage may use some of the same techniques as other types of massage, the main difference between medical massage and other massage types is that medical massage has a focused approach to specifically address a physician-diagnosed issue.

How much does a massage cost?

On average, prices in the United States range from $50 to $150 per hour, with higher rates typical in urban areas and luxury spas. The cost is also affected by the therapist's experience, the type of massage, and any additional services provided.

How do I get a letter of medical necessity for a massage?

How do I get a medical necessity letter for massage therapy? Talk to your primary care provider. In many HMOs and other health plans, this doctor is the one who must authorize the referral. Discuss medical necessity with the doctor.

Is it rude not to tip a massage therapist?

Since tips are standard protocol for a private masseuse, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive). Not sure? When in doubt, always ask, says Post, who says tipping is always appreciated.

What is the most favorite body part to be massaged?

The survey results are in and the back took top position as the most favourite part of the body to be massaged followed by the shoulders. Then feet coming in at third surprisingly took preference over the neck at fourth, followed by head/face, legs, arms and hands as the least favourite.

What not to do during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Does insurance pay for lymphatic massage?

For instance, if a doctor prescribes lymphatic drainage massage as part of treatment for a specific medical condition like lymphedema, your insurance might cover it. However, for general wellness or detoxification purposes, you're likely going to pay out of pocket.

How often should you get a massage?

– Monthly massages can help maintain overall well-being and prevent muscle tension from building up. – For individuals with chronic pain or specific health issues, getting massages more frequently, such as bi-weekly or weekly, may be recommended by healthcare professionals.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal cover massage therapy?

Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers alternative medicine for federal employees. Effective Jan. 1, 2001 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members will have access to a national network of chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, and health and wellness products at discounted prices.

Does insurance cover massages?

Medical companies cover medical procedures and will not cover luxuries such as massage that is not prescribed by a doctor. If you do not have a medical need for massage therapy and are only seeing a massage for enjoyment, then you will not be covered by medical insurance.

How long is a 1 hour massage?

All well known massage franchises offer 50 minutes of hands-on treatment time, and call that a One Hour Massage. At Be Well Bodyworks, our One Hour Massages are 60 minutes of hands-on treatment. That added 10 minutes makes a BIG difference and allows therapists to work on every part of the body, without feeling rushed.

Can a doctor recommend a massage?

Massage therapy is sometimes recommended by health-care providers; however, numerous factors limit the full integration of massage therapy into health care, including the low priority placed on massage and other CIH therapies during medical training.

How much does a medical massage cost?

The average cost for a medical massage is $75 an hour.

Hiring a medical massage therapist for a one-hour massage, you will likely spend between $70 and $125.

What is the healthiest type of massage?

Research has shown that shiatsu massage is beneficial for whole-body health through somatic bodywork. A 2022 study found shiatsu massage therapy helped children who experienced trauma with tension and social interaction.

What are the 6 things Medicare doesn't cover?

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
  • Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
  • Long-term care.
  • Cosmetic surgery.
  • Massage therapy.
  • Routine physical exams.
  • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.

Is a massage a healthcare expense?

As long as the massage was recommended or prescribed by a medical professional, massage therapy can be a qualified medical expense that is tax deductible.

Will Medicaid cover massage?

The government calls these Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The ACA doesn't see them as essential benefits. So, it's hard to claim massage therapy through Medicaid and insurance. You'll likely need to pay the full cost.