Are massage therapists in Texas allowed to perform acupuncture?

In Texas, massage therapists are not permitted to perform acupuncture because it is regulated separately under its own licensing requirements. Acupuncture is classified as a distinct form of therapy that involves specific techniques and practices that require a separate certification and licensing process beyond that of a massage therapist. This means that practitioners who want to provide acupuncture services must complete the necessary education and training specific to acupuncture and obtain a licensed acupuncturist designation.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for both practitioners and clients, as it ensures that individuals providing acupuncture are fully trained and qualified to perform such therapies safely and effectively. This regulation helps protect consumers from unqualified practitioners and maintains the integrity of both massage therapy and acupuncture as separate fields of practice.