A massage therapist in British Columbia has been prohibited from possessing needles and piercing clients' skin by the province's regulatory body. The decision, announced on June 12, 2026, stems from an investigation into the therapist's conduct.
Regulatory Action
The College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia issued the ban after determining that the therapist had engaged in activities outside the scope of practice for massage therapy. The therapist is now barred from owning or using needles for any purpose and from performing any procedure that breaks the skin.
Details of the Ban
The regulatory body did not specify the exact nature of the violations but emphasized that such actions pose risks to client safety. The therapist's registration remains active, but with strict conditions.
- No possession of needles
- No skin piercing procedures
- Compliance with all other regulatory standards
The case highlights the importance of adhering to professional boundaries in healthcare. Massage therapists are not authorized to perform invasive procedures like acupuncture or tattooing.
This incident adds to a series of regulatory actions in British Columbia aimed at protecting public health. The therapist has the right to appeal the decision.
