Do Physical Therapists Do Massage Therapy?

Yes, physical therapists may use massage techniques—but it’s not the same as traditional massage therapy.

Physical therapists (PTs) often perform manual therapy, which includes massage-like techniques, but their purpose is different: instead of general relaxation, PTs use these methods to treat injuries, restore movement, and support long-term recovery.

If you’re wondering whether your physical therapist will “do massage,” the short answer is:

✅ Yes, but only when it’s medically necessary and part of a customized treatment plan.

Key Differences: Physical Therapy vs. Massage Therapy

Physical Therapy	Massage Therapy
Medical treatment focused on injury recovery, mobility, and function	Wellness treatment focused on relaxation and stress relief
Performed by a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)	Performed by a licensed massage therapist (LMT)
Can diagnose movement dysfunctions and treat specific conditions	Cannot diagnose or prescribe treatment
Includes exercise, education, manual therapy, and modalities	Includes hands-on techniques like Swedish or deep tissue massage

What Kind of Massage Techniques Do PTs Use?

Physical therapists use targeted, clinical massage techniques as part of their treatment plans. These are typically used to:

• Reduce inflammation

• Release muscle tension or trigger points

• Improve tissue mobility and circulation

• Prepare the body for exercise or movement re-education

Common techniques include:

• Myofascial release – for tight connective tissue

• Trigger point therapy – for muscle “knots” causing referred pain

• Soft tissue mobilization – to break up scar tissue or adhesions

• Instrument-assisted soft tissue work (like Graston) – for deeper restriction release

These techniques may feel like massage, but they are carefully applied with a

therapeutic goal in mind.

When Physical Therapists Use Massage

You might receive massage-like treatment in physical therapy if you’re recovering from:

• Post-surgical pain or stiffness

• Sports or overuse injuries

• Neck, back, or shoulder tension

• Plantar fasciitis or IT band syndrome

• Repetitive strain injuries like tennis elbow

At Fluid Physio, we use manual therapy to reduce pain, improve mobility, and create lasting changes—not just short-term relief.

What Makes Physical Therapy Different

While massage therapists provide relaxation and temporary pain relief, physical therapists treat the root cause of your problem. That includes:

• Evaluating your posture, gait, and movement

• Identifying muscle imbalances or joint dysfunction

• Creating a personalized plan with exercises, hands-on work, and education

• Helping you restore long-term strength, balance, and mobility

Massage may feel great—but physical therapy helps you feel great and stay that way.

Final Answer: Do PTs Do Massage Therapy?

✅ Yes—but only as part of a broader treatment plan designed to restore function and reduce pain.

If you’re looking for hands-on treatment that gets results, a physical therapist can help you not just feel better, but move better.

Bonus: Physical Therapy + Laser Therapy

At Fluid Physio, we go beyond hands-on work. We also use deep tissue laser therapy to:

• Speed up healing

• Calm inflammation

• Support faster recovery after injuries or surgery

It’s just one more way we help you move better, feel stronger, and stay active—long term.