Diversity Changes in Massage Therapists

Diversity among massage therapists and other similar practitioners has lagged behind other providers. For example, massage therapists are predominantly white (over 72%) when it comes to race and identify as women gender (over 82%) according to the US Census data.  Chiropractors, who may provide massage, are also predominantly white, with a majority being men (in gender). Home health aids who may perform massage are much more diverse with over 50% identifying as Latino, Black, or Brown. Industries such as massage, architecture, and even petroleum have not reached the diversity of the communities they serve. Practices that support equitable solutions are ideal.

Key Areas Lacking in Representation in Massage

• Age
• LGBTQIA+
• Gender including Non-Binary and Transgender
• (Dis)ability
• Race
• Ethnicity
• Gender Expression
• Nationality
• Weight
• Religion

So how do we attract more diverse candidates with regard to differences in race, ethnicity, and gender?

Enhancing DEI in Massage

The first step in enhancing equity and DEI in massage is to expand opportunities, access, and resources. Some initiatives underway are providing school vocational and guidance counseling to Black and Hispanic students to ensure they know this is an opportunity. Additionally, opportunities are presented at the college level, particularly as HBCU's (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). This can be in the form of posters and informational brochures and other printed collateral as well as websites and digital media.

Who is Receiving Massages

According the the Census, more and more white customers and patients are seeking massage, as opposed to Black, Brown, or Hispanic patients. This disparity likely relates having knowledge of the benefits of massage and access to care as well as financial considerations. It may also relate to the current state of the massage therapists available with their identities being primarily white. It is a two-fold situation; patients often like to work with therapists who are similar in identity to them. If those therapists are not diverse, it can create a situation in which some patients do not feel comfortable booking appointments.

Benefits of Corporate Chair and Full Massages

There are a number of benefits to massage for people of all identities, many of which relate to health.

Massage Benefits

• Reduces Repetitive Stress Injuries
• Improved Overall Health
• Lowers Employee Absenteeism
• Increases Performance and Productivity
• Improves Problem-Solving and Creativity
• Positive Work Environment
  • Raises Engagement
  • Reduced Back and Neck Pain
  • Reduced Migraine Headaches
• Immediate Results: Relaxed Muscles

For information on DEI training and coaching, contact Diversity Builder.

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