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Abstract

The identity of paramedic professions is bound to develop in order to adapt to the changes of the world of health.Careproviders' identity is based on the interpersonal dimension, yet French massage-physiotherapy bases this interpersonal competence on touch. This is why many practitioners try to develop this aspect of their practice through continuing professional education. Danis Bois Method (Méthode Danis Bois: MDB) of fasciatherapy, characterized by its relational and sensitive approach to care and touch, stands in this field. This paper will present the impacts of this manual therapy on the professional identity of 446 masseurs-physiotherapists who took part in a self-assessment survey. The results show that, in spite of the few difficulties they meet within their duties, practicing fasciatherapy integrates perfectly well into the framework of massage-physiotherapy. It largely reinforces the feeling of therapeutical efficacy and the capacity to meet the evolution in health needs (chronic diseases, mental suffering, and patients' quality of life). It also restores meaning and value to the profession and boosts motivation as well as it fosters the congruence of both personal and professional identities. It is thus considered as an added value to masso-physiotherapy, a means to accomplish oneself and an essential component of professional identity.