MASSAGE THERAPY:

LEGAL ASPECTS SUPPORTING THE PROFESSION

Abstract

Every citizen has the right to defend their individual and collective interests and freedoms, but ignorance of the law can pose significant obstacles in this regard. This study provides an overview of the legal framework supporting massage therapy in Brazil, focusing on the technical and technological education of professionals. Our approach combines historical research, bibliographic analysis, document examination, consulting sources like Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProQuest, along with relevant decrees and laws. Historical research played a crucial role in understanding the genesis, evolution, and strengthening of the profession, also allowing us to learn about the history and significance of technical courses in Brazil for the consistent education of massage therapists. The existence of a solid legal framework that recognizes the profession before public authorities is undeniable, as manifested by its inclusion in the Brazilian Classification of Occupations and the National Classification of Economic Activities, as well as the consideration of ongoing bills seeking to regulate it. It is clear that massage therapists have the support of public entities, as their activity is based on substantial legal foundations. To ensure the continued valorization of this occupation, it is imperative that professionals update themselves not only in technical skills but also in their understanding of the legislation that underpins the development of their professional practice in a safe and regulated manner