This reference file was created as part of the Massage Medical Applications Project (MMAP). Not all references may be pertinent to the professional provision of massage. Some references are included to facilitate sociological research. In general, only references with abstracts have been included. Links to the journal title will do a Google search on the title. Most doi, uri, and url links will successfully link to the article online. This file contains references for 2001-2002, last modified 21 January 2006. Richard Elliott author 2002-Mar text continuing periodical academic journal 1496-399X 2002-Mar 6 3 60 61 In August 2001, the Tax Court of Canada issued its most recent judgment on the tax deductability of expenses for complementary/alternative therapies. The decision in Pagnotta v Canada is significant for people with HIV/AIDS who use such therapies. It also illustrates how provincial and federal laws regulating health-care practitioners and natural health products have a financial impact on the cost of accessing treatment. Elliott2002 V Shenoy author D Ravichandran author D N L Ralphs author 2002-Jun text continuing periodical academic journal 0960-9776 2002-Jun 11 3 273 274 In sentinel node biopsy of breast cancer, massaging of the dye injection site following subdermal injection of blue dye does not improve sentinel node detection rate or the time needed for sentinel node biopsy. It may reduce the number of false negative sentinel nodes. Shenoy2002 10.1054/brst.2002.0415 Vivette Glover author Katsuno Onozawa author Alison Hodgkinson author 2002-Dec text continuing periodical academic journal 1084-2756 2002-Dec 7 6 495 495 Infant massage by the mother has been popular in many cultures, especially India, and is growing in popularity in the West. Mothers with postnatal depression often have problems interacting with their infants. A small controlled study has shown that attending a massage class can help such mothers relate better to their babies. The mechanisms by which this is achieved are not clear but may include learning to understand their babies' cues and the release of oxytocin. Glover2002 Tiffany Field author 2002-Dec text continuing periodical academic journal 1084-2756 2002-Dec 7 6 487 494 Preterm infants have been noted to benefit from massage therapy. Following massage therapy protocols using moderate pressure preterm infants have gained 31-49% more weight on average. Some studies have also shown length and head circumference growth and bone mineral density increases associated with massage therapy. These studies are reviewed in this paper along with discussion of potential underlying mechanisms. Field2002c Cherry Bond author 2002-Dec text continuing periodical academic journal 1084-2756 2002-Dec 7 6 477 486 There is now a general trend towards a more baby friendly, family centred approach in the Neonatal Unit. Aspects of that approach-including positive touch and massage- are gaining in popularity. This has caused much debate due to the ambiguity surrounding the implementation and validity of the interventions. Here the impact of these complementary practices (not to be confused with complementary therapies) is discussed. A review of the author's approach and potential guidelines for implementation is provided. Bond2002 T Farr author C Nottle author K Nosaka author P Sacco author 2002-Dec text continuing periodical academic journal 1440-2440 2002-Dec 5 4 297 306 This study Investigated the effects of a therapeutic massage on delayed onset muscle soreness and muscle function following downhill walking. Eight male subjects performed a 40-min downhill treadmill walk loaded with 10% of their body mass. A qualified masseur performed a 30-min therapeutic massage to one limb 2 hours post-walk. Muscle soreness, tenderness, isometric strength, isokinetic strength, and single leg vertical jump height were measured on two occasions before, and 1, 24, 72 and 120 hours post-walk for both limbs. Subjects showed significant (p < 0.004) increases in soreness and tenderness for the non-massaged limb 24 hours post-walk with a significant (p < 0.001) difference between the two limbs. A significant reduction In isometric strength was recorded for both limbs compared to baseline 1 hour post-walk. Isokinetic strength at 60 degrees/sec and vertical jump height were significantly lower for the massaged limb at 1 and 24 hours post-walk. No significant differences were evident in the remaining testing variables. These results suggest that therapeutic massage may attenuate soreness and tenderness associated with delayed onset muscle soreness. However it may not be beneficial in the treatment of strength and functional declines. Farr2002 L Brosseau author L Casimiro author S Milne author V Robinson author B Shea author P Tugwell author G Wells author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 1469-493X 2002 4 CD003528 BACKGROUND: Deep transverse friction massage (DTFM) is one of several physiotherapy interventions suggested for the management of tendinitis pain. OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of DTFM for treating tendinitis. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, HealthSTAR, Sports Discus, CINAHL, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, PEDro, the specialized registry of the Cochrane musculoskeletal group and the Cochrane field of Physical and Related Therapies up to the end of June 2002. The reference list of the trials and key experts in the area were also consulted for additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing therapeutic ultrasound with control or another active intervention in patients with all types of tendinitis, such as iliotibial band friction syndrome and extensor carpi radialis tendinitis (i.e. tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis or lateralis epicondylitis humeri), were selected. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two reviewers determined the studies to be included based upon the inclusion and exclusion criteria (LB, VR). Data were independently abstracted by two reviewers (VR, LB), and checked by a third reviewer (BS) using a pre-developed form of the Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group. The two reviewers, using a validated checklist, assessed the methodological quality of the RCTs and CCTs independently. The pooled analysis was performed using weighted mean differences (WMDs) for continuous outcomes. MAIN RESULTS: One RCT included patients with ITBFS. DTFM combined with rest, stretching exercises, cryotherapy and therapeutic ultrasound was compared to the control group (rest, stretching exercises, cryotherapy and therapeutic ultrasound only). This trial showed no statistical difference in the three types of pain relief measured after four consecutive sessions of DTFM combined with other physiotherapy modalities for runners. There was a clinically important relative percentage difference in pain while running of 22%. A RCT on ECRT showed no statistical difference in pain relief, grip strength and the three types of functional status measured after 9 consecutive sessions within 5 weeks of DTFM compared with other physiotherapy modalities. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: DTFM combined with other physiotherapy modalities did not show consistent benefit over the control of pain, or improvement of grip strength and functional status for patients with ITBFS or for patients with ECRT. These conclusions are limited by the small sample size of the included RCTs. No conclusions can be drawn concerning the use or non use of DTFM for the treatment of ITBFS. Future trials, utilizing specific ITBFS methods and adequate sample sizes are needed, before conclusions can be drawn regarding the specific effect of DTFM on tendinitis. Brosseau2002 Sari Goldstein Ferber author Moshe Laudon author Jacob Kuint author Aron Weller author Nava Zisapel author 2002-Dec text continuing periodical academic journal 0196-206X 2002-Dec 23 6 410 415 The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of massage therapy on phase adjustment of rest-activity and melatonin secretion rhythms to the nocturnal period in full-term infants. Rest-activity cycles of infants (measurement 1, n = 16) were measured by actigraphy before and after 14 days of massage therapy (starting at age 10 [+/-4] d) and subsequently at 6 and 8 weeks of age. 6-Sulphatoxymelatonin excretion was assessed in urine samples at 6, 8, and 12 weeks of age (measurement 2, n = 21). At 8 weeks the controls revealed one peak of activity at approximately 12 midnight (11 p.m.-3 a.m.) and another one at approximately 12 noon (11 a.m.-3 p.m.), whereas in the treated group, a major peak was early in the morning (3 a.m.-7 a.m.) and a secondary peak in the late afternoon (3 p.m.-7 p.m.). At 12 weeks, nocturnal 6-sulphatoxymelatonin excretions were significantly higher in the treated infants (1346.38 +/- 209.40 microg/night vs 823.25 +/- 121.25 microg/night, respectively; <.05). It is concluded that massage therapy by mothers in the perinatal period serves as a strong time cue, enhancing coordination of the developing circadian system with environmental cues. Ferber2002b Rosalie O Mainous author 2002-Oct text continuing periodical academic journal 0887-9311 2002-Oct 16 5 1 1 Infant massage has been practiced for centuries by segments on the continents of Africa and South America and in the Far East. Infant massage is a relatively new modality in North America. Numerous studies support its use in preterm infants, who have exhibited decreased stress levels, increased weight gain, and improved motor function when compared with non-massaged controls. Research has recently turned to the benefits of massage in the cocaine-exposed population and in those with human immunodeficiency virus. Massage in ill preterms has been targeted for clinical testing. Mainous2002 Pauline Stuttard author 2002-Nov text continuing periodical academic journal 1353-6117 2002-Nov 8 4 185 190 In view of changing policy and recommendation for complementary medicine, the moves towards regulatory mechanisms and an evidence base for practice, there is a need to establish the extent to which this is happening within professions and identify away forward that will benefit the individuals and organisations involved. This paper outlines the views and opinions of professional masseurs at the Northern Institute of Massage in the North of England and discusses how such a professional organisation for massage can work in partnership with Higher Education to develop a stronger evidence base for practice. The study concludes that a significant number of practitioners of the Northern Institute are aware of the need for an evidence base for practice but need to be supported in finding, reading and applying research findings to their practice. A partnership between professional organisations for massage and higher education can benefit both parties and help to facilitate change for the future. Stuttard2002 Daniel C Cherkin author Richard A Deyo author Karen J Sherman author L Gary Hart author Janet H Street author Andrea Hrbek author Roger B Davis author Elaine Cramer author Bruce Milliman author Jennifer Booker author Robert Mootz author James Barassi author Janet R Kahn author Ted J Kaptchuk author David M Eisenberg author text continuing periodical academic journal 0893-8652 2002 15 6 463 472 BACKGROUND: Despite growing popularity of complementary and alternative medical (CAM) therapies, little is known about the patients seen by CAM practitioners. Our objective was to describe the patients and problems seen by CAM practitioners. METHODS: We collected data on 20 consecutive visits to randomly sampled licensed acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and naturopathic physicians practicing in Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Washington. Data were collected on patient demographics, smoking status, referral source, reasons for visit, concurrent medical care, payment source, and visit duration. Comparative data for conventional physicians were drawn from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. RESULTS: In each profession, at least 99 practitioners collected data on more than 1,800 visits. More than 80% of visits to CAM providers were by young and middle-aged adults, and roughly two thirds were by women. Children comprised 10% of visits to naturopathic physicians but only 1% to 4% of all visits to other CAM providers. At least two thirds of visits resulted from self-referrals, and only 4% to 12% of visits were from conventional physician referrals. Chiropractors and massage therapists primarily saw musculoskeletal problems, while acupuncturists and naturopathic physicians saw a broader range of conditions. Visits to acupuncturists and massage therapists lasted about 60 minutes compared with 40 minutes for naturopathic physicians and less than 20 minutes for chiropractors. Most visits to chiropractors and naturopathic physicians, but less than one third of visits to acupuncturists and massage therapists, were covered by insurance. CONCLUSIONS: This information will help inform discussions of the roles CAM practitioners will play in the health care system of the future. Cherkin2002b Miguel A Diego author Tiffany Field author Maria Hernandez-Reif author Jon A Shaw author Eugenio M Rothe author Daniel Castellanos author Linda Mesner author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 0001-8449 2002 37 147 597 597 Seventeen aggressive adolescents were randomly assigned to a massage therapy group or a relaxation therapy group to receive 20-minute therapy sessions, twice a week for five weeks. The massaged adolescents had lower anxiety after the first and last sessions. By the end of the study, they also reported feeling less hostile and they were perceived by their parents as being less aggressive. Significant differences were not found for the adolescents who were assigned to the relaxation group. Diego2002b Lynn Dunwoody author Angus Smyth author Robin Davidson author 2002-Oct text continuing periodical academic journal 1357-6321 2002-Oct 8 10 497 497 Many patients suffering from cancer make use of complementary therapies, with aromatherapy being a popular choice. Quantitative studies, using questionnaire data, have shown that aromatherapy may reduce psychological distress and enhance symptom control in cancer patients. However, little is known about the personal meanings patients associate with the therapy. This study explored the patients' experiences of aromatherapy using of a focus group interview. Eight themes emerged from the analysis, six of which have been acknowledged to some extent by previous authors: de-stressing effects of aromatherapy, the counselling role of the aromatherapist, aromatherapy as a reward, patient empowerment, communication through touch, and negative aspects of the service. Two apparently new themes emerged concerned with security of context (where the aromatherapy took place) and preconceived perceptions of the value of aromatherapy as a treatment of cancer patients. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to the perceived role of counselling, collaborative practice and training in complementary therapies. Dunwoody2002 Cherry Bond author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 1474-9114 2002 12 2 44 47 The significance and benefits of touch and massage for preterm infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units and in the community are discussed. The article emphasises the value of massage in helping parents to bond with their baby and as part of family-centred care. A bibliography is included. Bond2002 Tim Hideaki Tanaka author Gerry Leisman author Hidetoshi Mori author Kazushi Nishijo author 2002-Oct-14 text continuing periodical academic journal 1472-6882 2002-Oct-14 2 9 BACKGROUND: There is not enough evidence to support the efficacy of massage for muscle fatigue despite wide utilization of the modality in various clinical settings. This study investigated the influence of massage application on localized back muscle fatigue. METHODS: Twenty-nine healthy subjects participated in two experimental sessions (massage and rest conditions). On each test day, subjects were asked to lie in the prone position on a treatment table and perform sustained back extension for 90 seconds. Subjects then either received massage on the lumbar region or rested for a 5 minute duration, then repeated the back extension movement. The median frequency (MDF), mean power frequency (MNF), and root mean square (RMS) amplitude of electromyographic signals during the 90 second sustained lumbar muscle contraction were analyzed. The subjective feeling of fatigue was then evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). RESULTS: MDF and MNF significantly declined with time under all conditions. There was no significant difference in MDF, MNF or RMS value change between before and after massage, or between rest and massage conditions. There was a significant increase in fatigue VAS at the end of the 2nd back extension with rest condition. There was a significant difference in fatigue VAS change between massage and rest condition. CONCLUSIONS: A significant difference was observed between massage and rest condition on VAS for muscle fatigue. On EMG analysis, there were no significant differences to conclude that massage stimulation influenced the myoelectrical muscle fatigue, which is associated with metabolic and electrical changes. Tanaka2002 Christopher Quinn author Clint Chandler author Albert Moraska author 2002-Oct text continuing periodical academic journal 0090-0036 2002-Oct 92 10 1657 1661 OBJECTIVES: The effect of massage therapy on chronic nonmigraine headache was investigated. METHODS: Chronic tension headache sufferers received structured massage therapy treatment directed toward neck and shoulder muscles. Headache frequency, duration, and intensity were recorded and compared with baseline measures. RESULTS: Compared with baseline values, headache frequency was significantly reduced within the first week of the massage protocol. The reduction of headache frequency continued for the remainder of the study (P =.009). The duration of headaches tended to decrease during the massage treatment period (P =.058). Headache intensity was unaffected by massage (P =.19). CONCLUSIONS: The muscle-specific massage therapy technique used in this study has the potential to be a functional, nonpharmacological intervention for reducing the incidence of chronic tension headache. Quinn2002 Ruth Remington author text continuing periodical academic journal 0029-6562 2002 51 5 317 323 BACKGROUND: Agitated behavior is a widespread problem that adversely affects the health of nursing home residents and increases the cost of their care. OBJECTIVE: To examine whether modifying environmental stimuli by the use of calming music and hand massage affects agitated behavior in persons with dementia. METHOD: A four group, repeated measures experimental design was used to test the effect of a 10-minute exposure to either calming music, hand massage, or calming music and hand massage simultaneously, or no intervention (control) on the frequency and type of agitated behaviors in nursing home residents with dementia (N = 68). A modified version of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory was used to record agitated behaviors. RESULTS: Each of the experimental interventions reduced agitation more than no intervention. The benefit was sustained and increased up to one hour following the intervention (F = 6.47, p<.01). The increase in benefit over time was similar for each intervention group. When types of agitated behaviors were examined separately, none of the interventions significantly reduced physically aggressive behaviors (F = 1.93, p=.09), while physically nonaggressive behaviors decreased during each of the interventions (F = 3.78, p< 01). No additive benefit resulted from simultaneous exposure to calming music and hand massage. At one hour following any intervention, verbally agitated behavior decreased more than no intervention. CONCLUSION: Calming music and hand massage alter the immediate environment of agitated nursing home residents to a calm structured surrounding, offsetting disturbing stimuli, but no additive benefit was found by combining interventions simultaneously. Remington2002 Daniel C Cherkin author Richard A Deyo author Karen J Sherman author L Gary Hart author Janet H Street author Andrea Hrbek author Elaine Cramer author Bruce Milliman author Jennifer Booker author Robert Mootz author James Barassi author Janet R Kahn author Ted J Kaptchuk author David M Eisenberg author text continuing periodical academic journal 0893-8652 2002 15 5 378 390 BACKGROUND: Despite the growing popularity of complementary and alternative medical (CAM) therapies, little is known about the professionals who provide them. Our objective was to describe the characteristics of the four largest groups of licensed CAM providers in the United States and to compare them with the characteristics of conventional physicians. METHODS: Random statewide samples of licensed acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and naturopathic physicians living in Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Washington were interviewed by telephone. Sociodemographic, training, and practice characteristics of CAM providers were elicited and compared with data on conventional physicians published by the American Medical Association. RESULTS: More than 160 providers in each profession were interviewed. Participation rates ranged between 78% and 94% except for Arizona chiropractors (61%). The proportion of female respondents was highest for massage therapy (85%) and acupuncture and naturopathy (almost 60%) and was lowest for chiropractic (about 25%) and conventional medicine (23%). Except for acupuncturists, only 5% of CAM providers were nonwhite. CAM providers were more likely than conventional physicians to practice solo (51%-74% vs 26%, respectively), and less than 10% practiced with medical physicians. Massage therapists saw the fewest patients per week (about 14), and chiropractors and conventional physicians the most (about 100). Chiropractors and conventional physicians saw about 3 patients per hour compared with roughly 1 patient per hour for the other CAM professions. Interstate differences were small. CONCLUSIONS: This characterization of CAM providers will help inform decisions about the future role of CAM providers in the health care system. Cherkin2002a Miguel A Diego author Tiffany Field author Maria Hernandez-Reif author Sybil Hart author Bernard Brucker author Tory Field author Iris Burman author 2002-Feb text continuing periodical academic journal 0020-7454 2002-Feb 112 2 133 142 The present study assessed the effects of massage therapy on depression, functionality, upper body muscle strength and range of motion on spinal cord injury patients. Twenty C5 through C7 spinal cord injury individuals recruited from a University outpatient clinic were randomly assigned to a massage therapy group or an exercise group. Patients in the massage therapy group received two 40-min massage therapy sessions per week for 5 weeks. Patients in the control group practiced a range of motion exercise routine targeting the arms, neck, shoulders, and back 2 times per week for 5 weeks. Although both the massage and exercise group appeared to benefit from treatment, only the massage group showed lower anxiety and depression scores and significantly increased their muscle strength and wrist range of motion. Diego2002a Marlaine C Smith author Janet Kemp author Linnea Hemphill author Carol P Vojir author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 1527-6546 2002 34 3 257 262 PURPOSE: To examine the effects of therapeutic massage on perception of pain, subjective sleep quality, symptom distress, and anxiety in patients hospitalized for treatment of cancer. ORGANIZING CONSTRUCT: Rogers' Science of Unitary Human Beings and Watson's theory of human caring. METHODS: Quasiexperimental. The sample consisted of 41 patients admitted to the oncology unit at a large urban medical center in the United States for chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Twenty participants received therapeutic massage and 21 received the control therapy, nurse interaction. The outcome variables were measured on admission and at the end of 1 week via the following instruments: a Numerical Rating Scale for pain intensity and Likert-type scale for distress from pain; The Verran Snyder-Halpern Sleep Scale, McCorkle and Young's Symptom Distress Scale, and the Speilberger State Anxiety Inventory. ANOVA and t tests were used to analyze between and within group differences in mean scores and main effects on outcome variables. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: Mean scores for pain, sleep quality, symptom distress, and anxiety improved from baseline for the subjects who received therapeutic massage; only anxiety improved from baseline for participants in the comparison group. Statistically significant interactions were found for pain, symptom distress, and sleep. Sleep improved only slightly for the participants receiving massage, but it deteriorated significantly for those in the control group. The findings support the potential for massage as a nursing therapeutic for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Smith2002 Andrea D Furlan author Lucie Brosseau author Marta Imamura author Emma Irvin author 2002-Sep-01 text continuing periodical academic journal 1528-1159 2002-Sep-1 27 17 1896 1910 BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common and costly musculoskeletal problems in modern society. Proponents of massage therapy claim it can minimize pain and disability and speed return-to-normal function. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of massage therapy for nonspecific LBP. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, HealthSTAR, CINAHL, and dissertation abstracts through May 2001 with no language restrictions. References in the included studies and in reviews of the literature were screened. Contact with content experts and massage associations was also made. SELECTION CRITERIA: The studies had to be randomized or quasirandomized trials investigating the use of any type of massage (using the hands or a mechanical device) as a treatment for nonspecific LBP. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two reviewers blinded to authors, journals, and institutions selected the studies, assessed the methodologic quality using the criteria recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration Back Review Group, and extracted the data using standardized forms. The studies were analyzed in a qualitative way because of heterogeneity of population, massage technique, comparison groups, timing, and type of outcome measured. RESULTS: Nine publications reporting on eight randomized trials were included. Three had low and five had high methodologic quality scores. One study was published in German, and the rest, in English. Massage was compared with an inert treatment (sham laser) in one study that showed that massage was superior, especially if given in combination with exercises and education. In the other seven studies, massage was compared with different active treatments. They showed that massage was inferior to manipulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation; massage was equal to corsets and exercises; and massage was superior to relaxation therapy, acupuncture, and self-care education. The beneficial effects of massage in patients with chronic LBP lasted at least 1 year after the end of the treatment. One study comparing two different techniques of massage concluded in favor of acupuncture massage over classic (Swedish) massage. CONCLUSIONS: Massage might be beneficial for patients with subacute and chronic nonspecific LBP, especially when combined with exercises and education. The evidence suggests that acupuncture massage is more effective than classic massage, but this needs confirmation. More studies are needed to confirm these conclusions, to assess the effect of massage on return-to-work, and to measure longer term effects to determine cost-effectiveness of massage as an intervention for LBP. Furlan2002b Joyce Preece author 2002-May text continuing periodical academic journal 1353-6117 2002-May 8 2 101 105 Constipation and its associated problems affect approximately 50% of patients admitted to hospices in the United Kingdom. It is common practice in many hospices to offer a range of complementary therapies of which aromatherapy massage is one. Abdominal massage for the relief of constipation was once a commonly practised therapy but its use declined over time, like other complementary therapies there is now a rekindling of interest in the role that abdominal massage may play in relieving constipation. This paper will explain how a safe non-invasive easily learnt technique of abdominal massage was introduced in a palliative care setting to help relieve some of the problems associated with constipation. Despite the number of patients involved in this project being small, relief from some of the symptoms associated with constipation was experienced by some patients. A formal study of the benefits of abdominal massage in palliative care far the relief of constipation is needed. Preece2002 Gary L Darmstadt author Samir K Saha author 2002-Jun text continuing periodical academic journal 1606-0997 2002-Jun 20 2 184 188 Topical application of natural oils is practised routinely in many countries and may either improve skin barrier function and health or have detrimental cutaneous and systemic effects, depending on the composition of the oil. Little literature on the epidemiology, practice, and perceptions of traditional neonatal oil massage is available. This study was undertaken to gain insights into the epidemiology, practice, and perceptions regarding traditional oil massage of Bangladeshi neonates. A questionnaire was administered verbally to the primary caretaker of 332 outpatients at the Dhaka Shishu Hospital, and to 20 women with children encountered at the Matlab Health Complex in Bangladesh. More than 96% (340/352) of the caregivers practised oil massage, irrespective of socioeconomic status and place of residence. Among those at the Dhaka Shishu Hospital who practised oil massage, mustard oil was used alone or in combination by 95% (303/320) over the entire body, 1-3 time(s) daily (96%), starting in the first three days of life (72%) in both term and preterm neonates. Perceived benefits included prevention of infections (69%) and hypothermia (2%). Oil massage is an important traditional domiciliary practice used annually on more than three million newborns in Bangladesh. Given its potential for beneficial and harmful effects, further research is needed on the value of this practice, and ways to optimize its beneficial effects. Darmstadt2002 Iréne Lund author Y Ge author Long-Chuan Yu author Kerstin Uvnas-Moberg author Jing Wang author Cheng Yu author Mieko Kurosawa author Greta Agren author Annika Rosén author Magnus Lekman author Thomas Lundeberg author 2002-Jul text continuing periodical academic journal 0953-816X 2002-Jul 16 2 330 338 Massage-like stroking induces acute antinociceptive effects that can be reversed by an oxytocin antagonist, indicating activation of oxytocin on endogenous pain controlling systems. We now demonstrate an increase in hindpaw withdrawal latencies (HWLs), in response to thermal and mechanical stimuli, which was present after six treatments of massage-like stroking every other day and which continued to increase through the remaining seven treatments. Repeated massage-like stroking also resulted in increased oxytocin-like immunoreactivity (oxytocin-LI) levels in plasma and periaquaductal grey matter (PAG). Furthermore, increases in HWLs were also present after injections of oxytocin into the PAG (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 nmol). Intra-PAG oxytocin injection of 1 nmol followed by 1 or 20 nmol of naloxone attenuated the increments in HWL. Also, there was a dose-dependent attenuation of the oxytocin-induced antinociceptive effects following intra-PAG injection of the mu-opioid antagonist beta-funaltrexamine (beta-FNA) and the kappa-opioid antagonist nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI) but not the delta-antagonist naltrindole. The long-term antinociceptive effects of massage-like stroking may be attributed, at least partly, to the oxytocinergic system and its interaction with the opioid system, especially the mu- and the kappa-receptors in the PAG. Lund2002 Paula Mullins author text continuing periodical academic journal 0954-7762 2002 98 22 36 37 This article describes the properties of essential oils and the use of aromatherapy in a ward setting to treat patients with a variety of conditions. It outlines some of the benefits and risks to patients. Mullins2002 Junko Inagaki author Junko Yoneda author Misae Ito author Hiroshi Nogaki author 2002-Aug text continuing periodical academic journal 1441-0745 2002-Aug 4 3 Suppl A5 A6 The purpose of this study was to examine the psychophysiological effects of shiatsu and massage while in the prone position. Twenty-four healthy women gave informed written consent to participate. After resting in the prone position for 50 min, each subject was massaged and given shiatsu for 15 min and again rested for 15 min in the prone position. Every 5 min, skin temperature was measured along the neck and back. Blood pressure and pulse rate also were measured every 5 min throughout the procedure. A visual analog scale was used to assess the severity of pain experienced before the massage and shiatsu as well as at completion of the procedure. The subject's favorite sleeping posture and previous physical pain experienced during massage and shiatsu were assessed. The findings revealed that significant differences were found in skin temperatures (elevated 0.5 degrees) along the back after the procedure. Systolic blood pressure was found to be significantly lower after the massage and shiatsu when compared with systolic blood pressure prior to the procedure. No significant differences before and after the procedures were found in either the diastolic blood pressure or pulse rate. The procedure was found to give the subjects relief from pain. No significant differences were noted in the subject's favorite sleeping posture, the experience of previous physical pain, or the experience of the massage and shiatsu. Inagaki2002 Prapasri Jirayingmongkol author Supatra Chantein author Nuppawan Phengchomjan author Nitaya Bhanggananda author 2002-Aug text continuing periodical academic journal 1441-0745 2002-Aug 4 3 Suppl A4 Proactive health-care services emphasize health promotion and the prevention of disabling conditions. Currently, in Thai society, the number of elderly with deteriorating health has increased. Therefore, self-care health promotion activities have become essential in order for the elderly to maintain their well-being. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of foot massage with biofeedback. Foot massage, a Thai primary self-care custom, has been found to enhance blood circulation, relaxation, and one's own healing power. In addition, touch has been found to stimulate secretion of endorphins and reduce pain and anxiety. It appears therefore that foot massage, or reflexology, promotes a healthy lifestyle for all age groups. An experimental study, utilizing a pilot project in elderly health care, was employed to investigate the effects of biofeedback using foot massage. A pretest/post-test quasi-experimental design was used. The sample consisted of four men and 16 women (age range 61-69 years). Four trained researchers massaged the feet of the subjects and measured vital-sign changes. Biofeedback also was investigated before and after the foot massages. Results showed that the average biofeedback and temperature were lower before than after the foot massage (P < 0.01). The average pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, however, were found to be higher before rather than after the foot massage ( P < 0.01). It was concluded that the foot massage provided good circulation, relaxation, and comfort. All subjects expressed positive feelings when they received the foot massage (i.e. 'It is very nice that foot massage can relieve my joint pain, I am happy and comfortable'). These findings appear to indicate that foot massage is beneficial both for physical and mental conditions. Foot massage, however, is just one key to achieving a full range of primary health-care services. It needs to not only be performed by nurses. Families, also, can provide foot massage for the elderly, anywhere and anytime. Jirayingmongkol2002 Jenny Buckley author 2002-Jun text continuing periodical academic journal 1357-6321 2002-Jun 8 6 276 280 This article begins by reviewing the place of complementary therapies in palliative care from the perspective of UK professional organizations, namely the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) (formerly the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC)) and the British Medical Association (BMA). It then reviews recent research on the use of massage and aromatherapy massage in palliative care and comments on their credibility and implications, thereby addressing nursing science. The art of nursing is explored through four case histories where massage was used intuitively when words were difficult or seemed inadequate. To conclude, by focusing on the therapies provided by a UK hospice, there is consideration of the practicalities of implementing massage and aromatherapy massage in a specialist palliative care unit. Buckley2002 Neena Khanna author Siddhartha Datta Gupta author 2002-Jul text continuing periodical academic journal 0011-9059 2002-Jul 41 7 407 410 BACKGROUND: Facial massage is an extremely popular form of beauty treatment and is thought to rejuvenate the skin. We decided to study the benefits and untoward effects of this form of facial beauty treatment. METHODS: One hundred and forty-two women (aged 17-63 years), who had received facial beauty treatment in three well-established beauty parlours in New Delhi, were entered into the study and observed for a period of 12 weeks after the facial beauty treatment. Twenty-seven of the subjects had a repeat facial beauty treatment 4-6 weeks after entry into the study, giving a total of 169 massage episodes observed. Immediate and delayed effects of the beauty treatment were examined. RESULTS: Facial beauty treatment generally consists of three steps: vigorous massaging of the face with creams, steaming (using a hot towel or a steaming gadget), and application of a face mask containing adsorbents and astringents. In our study, the creams used for massage included "off the shelf" creams manufactured by standard cosmetic companies in 95 (56.3%) subjects, herbal creams in 61 (36.1%), and creams containing exotic ingredients, such as gold salts, in 13 (7.7%). Sixty-one (36.1%) patients developed erythema and puffiness within 15 min to 2 h after the beauty treatment. This lasted for 2-6 h. Forty-one (24.3%) women underwent the procedure of comedone extraction after steaming. In 12 (7.1%) of these women, persistent erythema was noticed at the site of comedone extraction. Eight (4.7%) women developed mild dermatitis on the face, 2-7 days after the facial beauty treatment. Patch testing with constituents used in the facial beauty treatment was positive in four patients (herbal cream, 1; witch hazel, 1; orange face pack, 1; and gold cream, 1). In 47 (33.1%) subjects, an acneiform eruption was observed 3-10 weeks after the facial beauty treatment (mean, 6.1 +/- 3 weeks). Thirteen (27.7%) of these subjects had taken the facial beauty treatment for the first time, whereas 34 (72.3%) developed an acneiform eruption after every facial massage. The predominant lesions were deep-seated nodules, although a few comedones, especially closed ones, were present in some patients. Lesions were always present on the cheeks, an area of focus during the facial massage, and healed with hyperpigmentation. The benefits of facial beauty treatment, as mentioned by the subjects, included a feeling of freshness and rejuvenation in 84 (59.1%), keeping the skin supple in 76 (53.5%), feeling of warmth and tightening of the skin in 71 (50%), and delaying the onset of wrinkles in 21 (14.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Although there are several subjective benefits with facial beauty treatment, there may be immediate side-effects, such as erythema and edema, as well as delayed problems, such as dermatitis and acneiform eruption, in about one-third of patients. Khanna2002 A D Furlan author L Brosseau author M Imamura author E Irvin author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 1469-493X 2002 2 CD001929 BACKGROUND: Low-back pain is one of the most common and costly musculoskeletal problems in modern society. Proponents of massage therapy claim it can minimize pain and disability, and speed return to normal function. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of massage therapy for non-specific low-back pain. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, HealthSTAR, CINAHL and Dissertation abstracts from their beginning to May 2001 with no language restrictions. References in the included studies and in reviews of the literature were screened. Contact with content experts and massage associations was also made. SELECTION CRITERIA: The studies had to be randomized or quasi-randomized trials investigating the use of any type of massage (using the hands or a mechanical device) as a treatment for non-specific low-back pain. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two reviewers blinded to authors, journal and institutions selected the studies, assessed the methodological quality using the criteria recommended by the Cochrane Back Review Group, and extracted the data using standardized forms. The studies were analysed in a qualitative way due to heterogeneity of population, massage technique, comparison groups, timing and type of outcome measured. MAIN RESULTS: Nine publications reporting on eight randomized trials were included. Three had low and five had high methodological quality scores. One study was published in German and the rest in English. Massage was compared to an inert treatment (sham laser) in one study that showed that massage was superior, especially if given in combination with exercises and education. In the other seven studies, massage was compared to different active treatments. They showed that massage was inferior to manipulation and TENS; massage was equal to corsets and exercises; and massage was superior to relaxation therapy, acupuncture and self-care education. The beneficial effects of massage in patients with chronic low-back pain lasted at least one year after the end of the treatment. One study comparing two different techniques of massage concluded in favour of acupuncture massage over classic (Swedish) massage. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: Massage might be beneficial for patients with subacute and chronic non-specific low-back pain, especially when combined with exercises and education. The evidence suggest that acupuncture massage is more effective than classic massage, but this need confirmation. More studies are needed to confirm these conclusions and to assess the impact of massage on return-to-work, and to measure longer term effects to determine cost-effectiveness of massage as an intervention for low-back pain. Furlan2002a V R Antoniv author 2002 text continuing periodical academic journal 1019-5297 2002 2 93 96 Our objectives in this study were to establish validated methods of massotherapy of the neck, to determine its action on the neck structures, and to conduct a comparative evaluation of results of the control and study groups after performing massotherapy. It has been found out that in 80 (85%) patients the skin comes to be tinged with healthy pink, the cutaneous-and-muscle tone getting improved, which event makes the skin smooth and elastic following the above massage. Over the first ten days of the massoprocedures 44 (48%) subjects demonstrated resolution of the edema and swelling, with the thickened skin fold as a roller dissappearing by the end of the second month. Dispelling of hypothyrosis phenomena made for reduction of dosages of hormonal preparations. We consider it mandatory that massotherapy of the neck be instituted in all those patients who had undergone operation on the neck and thyroid. Antoniv2002 Feng Liu author Leaf Huang author 2002-Jun text continuing periodical academic journal 0270-9139 2002-Jun 35 6 1314 1319 With the recent completion of the human genome project and the tremendous growth of biotechnology, the desire to extract information concerning gene expression, protein level, subcellular localization, and functionality in the liver will demand the development of efficient gene transfer to this organ with minimal toxicity. In this report, we show that significant gene expression in the liver could be achieved by simple mechanical massage after intravenous injection of naked plasmid DNA into mice. This method is simple, highly reproducible, repeatable, and, more importantly, free of toxicity. Hepatic gene transfer with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) plasmid DNA prevented endotoxin-induced lethal fulminant hepatic failure, leading to dramatically enhanced survival in mice. Liu2002 10.1053/jhep.2002.33467 Gregory Plaugher author Cynthia R Long author Joel Alcantara author Alyssa D Silveus author Herbert Wood author Kapildeo Lotun author J Michael Menke author William C Meeker author Stephen H Rowe author 2002-May text continuing periodical academic journal 0161-4754 2002-May 25 4 221 239 OBJECTIVE: To determine the feasibility of conducting a randomized clinical trial in the private practice setting examining short- and long-term effects of chiropractic adjustments for subjects with essential hypertension compared with a brief soft tissue massage, as well as a nontreatment control group. DESIGN: Randomized controlled-comparison trial with 3 parallel groups. SETTING: Private practice outpatient chiropractic clinic. PATIENTS: Twenty-three subjects, aged 24 to 50 years with systolic or diastolic essential hypertension. INTERVENTIONS: Two months of full-spine chiropractic care (ie, Gonstead) consisting primarily of specific-contact, short-lever-arm adjustments delivered at motion segments exhibiting signs of subluxation. The massage group had a brief effleurage procedure delivered at localized regions of the spine believed to be exhibiting signs of subluxation. The nontreatment control group rested alone for a period of approximately 5 minutes in an adjustment room. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Cost per enrolled subject, as well as systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) measured with a random-0 sphygmomanometer and patient reported health status (SF-36). Pilot study outcome measures also included an assessment of cooperation of subjects to randomization procedures and drop-out rates, recruitment effectiveness, analysis of temporal stability of BPs at the beginning of care, and the effects of inclusion/exclusion criteria on the subject pool. RESULTS: Thirty subjects enrolled, yielding a cost of $161 per enrolled subject. One subject was later determined to be ineligible, and 6 others dropped out. In both the chiropractic and massage therapy groups, all subjects were classified as either overweight or obese; in the control group there were only 2 classified as such. SF-36 profiles for the groups were similar to that of a normal population. The mean change in diastolic BP was -4 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -8.6, 0.5) in the chiropractic care group, 0.5 (95% CI: -3.5, 4.5) in the brief massage treatment group, and -4.9 (95% CI: -9.7, -0.1) in the no treatment control group. At the end of the study period, this change was -6.3 (95% CI: 13.1, 0.4), -1.0 (95% CI: -7.5, 15.6), -7.2 (95% CI: -13.3, -1.1) in the 3 study groups. The mean improvements in the chiropractic care and no treatment control groups remained consistent over the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study elucidated several procedural issues that should be addressed before undertaking a full-scale clinical trial on the effects of chiropractic adjustments in patients with essential hypertension. A multidisciplinary approach to recruitment may need to be used in any future efforts because of the limited subject pool of patients who have hypertensive disease but are not taking medications for its control. Measures need to be used to assure comparable groups regarding prognostic variables such as weight. Studies such as these demonstrate the feasibility of conducting a full-scale 3-group randomized clinical trial in the private practice setting. Plaugher2002 S G Ferber author J Kuint author A Weller author R Feldman author S Dollberg author E Arbel author D Kohelet author 2002-APR text continuing periodical academic journal Background: The method of "massage therapy" has consistently shown increased weight gain in preterm infants. The weight gain was apparent during massages administered by professionals. Aims: To replicate the results of increased weight gain in the course of "massage therapy" in preterm infants, and utilize a new, cost-effective application of this method by comparing maternal to nonmaternal administration of the therapy. Study design: Random cluster design. Subjects: The study comprised 57 healthy, preterm infants assigned to three groups: two treatment groups-one in which the mothers performed the massage, and the other in which a professional female figure unrelated to the infant administered the treatment. Both these groups were compared to a control group. Results: Over the 10-day Study period, the two treatment groups gained significantly more weight compared to the control group (291.3 and 311.3 vs. 225.5 g, respectively). Calorie intake/kg did not differ between groups. Conclusions: Mothers are able to achieve the same effect size as that of trained professionals, allowing cost-effective application of the treatment within the neonatal intensive care unit. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All tights reserved. Ferber2002a 2002-APR 67 1-2 37 45 T Field author M Diego author C Cullen author M Hernandez-Reif author W Sunshine author S Douglas author 2002-APR text continuing periodical academic journal Massage therapy has been observed to be helpful in some patients with fibromyalgia. This study was designed to examine the effects of massage therapy versus relaxation therapy on sleep, substance P, and pain in fibromyalgia patients. Twenty-four adult fibromyalgia patients were assigned randomly to a massage therapy or relaxation therapy group. They received 30-mmiute treatments twice weekly for 5 weeks. Both groups showed a decrease in anxiety and depressed mood immediately after the first and last therapy sessions. However, across the course of the study, only the massage therapy group reported an increase in the number of sleep hours and a decrease in their sleep movements. In addition, substance P levels decreased, and the patients' physicians assigned lower disease and pain ratings and rated fewer tender points in the massage therapy group. Field2002b 2002-APR 8 2 72 76 Tiffany Field author 2002-Jan text continuing periodical academic journal 0025-7125 2002-Jan 86 1 163 171 The author and other investigators have documented improvement in several medical and psychiatric conditions after massage therapy, including growth in preterm infants, depression and addictive problems, pain syndromes, and immune and autoimmune conditions. Although some potential underlying mechanisms have been explored for the massage therapy-improved clinical condition relationship, including decreased stress (and decreased cortisol), improved sleep patterns, and enhanced immune function, further research is needed in this area. Field2002a B Kriederman author T Myloyde author M Bernas author L Lee-Donaldson author S Preciado author M Lynch author B Stea author P Summers author C Witte author M Witte author 2002-MAR text continuing periodical academic journal Lack of a standardized experimental counterpart of peripheral lymphedema (LE) in a small animal has hampered research into treatment of this debilitating condition. We recently refined a rodent model consisting of radical unilateral lymphatic/nodal groin excision in conjunction with a circumferential integumental gap, followed by regional irradiation of the groin to reproduce stable unilateral hindlimb LE (1). In the current study, Wistar-Fuzzy rats with established right hindlimb LE, were subdivided into five groups and subjected to one of the following daily physical regimens over a 5-day period: pneumatic compression pumping at 30 torr (PCP); low-stretch multi-layered compressive bandaging using Coban (CB); manual lymphedema drainage (MLD) or a light massage consisting of stationary circular motions using the fingertips; combined physiotherapy (CPT consisting of MLD + CB); and a no treatment or control group (CTRL). Hindlimb and LE volumes were serially measured before and after treatment. Whereas CTRL showed progressive worsening of hindlimb swelling, PCP, CB, CPT and MLD each produced similar and substantial edema reduction over the 5 day interval. PCP, CB and CPT induced vacillating edema reduction which, however, exceeded rebound swelling on a daily basis. MLD, on the other hand, showed a steady gradual daily decline in LE volume. Kriederman2002 2002-MAR 35 1 23 27 Results of a randomized study I Le Blanc-Louvry author B Costaglioli author C Boulon author A M Leroi author