Little Stevie,
No, "rubdown" is just another variation of the terms for "soft tissue manipulation." In Texas, Physical Therapists have to be licensed for PT and can legally perform massage.
CHAPTER 321. DEFINITIONS
"(15) Physical therapy--The evaluation, examination, and utilization of exercises, rehabilitative procedures,
massage, manipulations, and physical agents including, but not limited to, mechanical devices, heat, cold, air, light, water, electricity, and sound in the aid of diagnosis or treatment. Physical therapists may perform evaluations without referrals. Physical therapy practice includes the use of modalities, procedures, and tests to make evaluations. Physical therapy practice includes, but is not limited to the use of: Electromyographic (EMG) Tests, Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Tests, Thermography, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), bed traction, application of topical medication to open wounds, sharp debridement, provision of soft goods, inhibitive casting and splinting, Phonophoresis, Iontophoresis, and biofeedback services."
http://www.ecptote.state.tx.us/_priv...les2010.07.pdf