Funding Your Massage Habit

While spas and massage clinics offer a variety of massage services, the total cost can be difficult to manage – especially if you need massage therapy on a weekly or monthly basis. Still, there are some simple ways to cut back on the cost of massage therapy so you can continue with your massage habit. From services at student clinics, to setting up a flexible spending account with your health insurance provider, here’s what you need to know:

Student Clinics for Massage

Student clinics are a great way to enjoy quality massage services at a discount. Student clinics can be found at most technical colleges and independent massage therapy schools. Setting up recurring appointments with students at these venues is a simple way to cut back on the total cost of massage therapy – up to 50-75% of the price you would pay at a spa, health care center, or independent massage clinic. One thing to be aware of is that time for appointments may be limited.

Can Health Insurance Pay for Massage Therapy?

As more and more people turn to massage for improved health, well-being, and even coping with injury, more health insurance providers are accepting massage therapy as part of treatment costs. Each health insurance provider is different, but many do consider massage therapy as an eligible benefit. You will need to submit paperwork such as receipts of massage therapy services, along with the massage therapist’s license number to receive reimbursement.

You can also find a massage therapy center or clinic that already accepts different types of health insurance; this can make the reimbursement process much easier, and you will not have to submit extra paperwork to your health insurance provider to review or approve your request.

Using Your Flexible Spending Account for Massage Therapy

Using your flexible spending account (FSA) for massage therapy is another valuable way to keep up with your massage habit. Flexible spending accounts are set up through your health insurance provider to manage costs outside of your standard doctor visits each year. These are generally considered to be ‘un-reimbursed medical expenses,’ and different health insurance providers have different guidelines on what they will accept. In most cases you can claim massage therapy as an un-reimbursed medical expense if it is for treating a specific injury, trauma, or illness. Massage for stress relief, relaxation, or just maintaining good health are usually not reimbursable.

Whether you need massage for physical therapy or stress relief, take advantage of any of these strategies if massage therapy has become a part of your healthy lifestyle.

Funding Your Massage Habit

Student Clinics for Massage

Can Health Insurance Pay for Massage Therapy?

Using Your Flexible Spending Account for Massage Therapy

Finding a Therapist

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