Professional Boundaries in Massage: Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Touch

Appropriate Touch

Touch that is:

• Performed with client consent
• Intended for client benefit
• Given professionally and respectfully
• Non-sexual in nature

Examples: Effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (percussion), trigger point therapy, myofascial release.

Inappropriate Touch

Touch that is:

• Without client consent
• Intended to harm/exploit
• Sexual in nature

Examples: Touching genitals/breasts without consent, painful/uncomfortable techniques, sexual comments/advances.

If uncomfortable, speak up, request a different therapist, or stop the session.