The Latest Research Indicates Massage Therapy Has Benefits From Birth To End Of Life
The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is sharing recent research. How massage therapy can provide benefits from infancy through end of life. Across all ages, massage therapy can be a therapeutic approach to enhancing physical and emotional well-being. Explore the latest studies on how massage therapy can help improve the quality of life for infants, middle-aged individuals, and older adults.
Mother-Performed Infant Massage Improves Eczema in Infants
A 2023 study investigated the impact of mother-performed infant massage (MPIM) on infantile eczema, quality of life, and growth. Infants are prone to eczema because their skin barrier is more fragile. Affecting an estimated 15 to 20 percent of children under the age of two. 1 In a randomized controlled trial, 66 full-term infants with eczema were divided into an eczema control group (EC). An eczema with MPIM group (EM), alongside a healthy full-term control group. Mothers in the EC group received routine care instructions, while those in the EM group received guidance for providing massage in addition to routine care. Data collected over 2- and 5-month intervals revealed significantly lower eczema severity, eczema remission and reduced relapse, along with improved quality of life in the group that received massage.
Massage Therapy Reduces Low Back Pain
According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), 44% of adults aged 45-65 experience back pain. A recent study compared the effects of connective tissue massage and classical massage on chronic mechanical low back pain. Focusing on pain relief and autonomic responses. Seventy patients were randomly assigned to either a connective tissue massage group or a classical massage group. Receiving a 4-week treatment regimen of hot packs, exercises, and massage therapy sessions. Researchers evaluated pain intensity, autonomic responses (heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature), disability, quality of life, and sleep quality before and after the treatment, as well as after a 6-week follow-up. Both massage types significantly reduced pain and improved disability, quality of life, and sleep quality, with classical massage showing a more pronounced pain reduction by the second week.
Healthcare Providers Recommend Massage Therapy for Palliative Care Patients
A nationwide survey of physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. In palliative care documented recommendation rates of integrative therapies to target symptoms of palliative care patients. The survey found that massage therapy was the third most recommended integrative care modality behind mind-body interventions like meditation and biofeedback. The integrative therapies aimed to reduce pain, anxiety, mood disturbances, and distress.
“Massage therapy offers a wide range of benefits tailored to the unique needs of individuals at different stages of life, making it a valuable practice for enhancing physical and mental health throughout one’s lifespan,” said Kimberly Kane-Santos, AMTA National President.
About The American Massage Therapy Association
The American Massage Therapy Association, the most trusted name in massage therapy, is the largest non-profit, professional association serving massage therapists, massage students and massage schools. The volunteer leadership of the association directs it, and we, the members, foster ongoing, direct involvement through the 51 chapters. AMTA works to advance the profession through ethics and standards. The promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists in all states. Public education on the benefits of massage. To find a qualified massage therapist in your area, please visit AMTA’s Find a Massage Therapist Locator Service.
Disclaimer: The above content is originally posted on prnewswire.com. We have reposted the article. The relevant information is provided by AMTA. All credit goes to their respective Copy Right Holders. ( AMTA )
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