Effects of different treatments on pain, functional disability, position sense and range of motion in elite bodybuilders with chronic low back pain

Back pain is one of the major global challenges and is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders occurring in 80% of people at least once in their lifetime. Therefore, the need to find appropriate treatment methods for this issue is very important. The objective is to examine the short-term and acute effects of a treatment session with dry needling, massage therapy, stretching exercises and Kinesio tape on pain, functional disability, position sense and range of motion in elite bodybuilders with non-specific chronic low back pain. The sample of this quasi-experimental study consisted of 48 bodybuilders with non-specific chronic low back pain (all male, mean age = 25.96 ± 2.18 years; mean weight = 74.45 ± 4.51 kg; mean height = 173.88 ± 3.74 cm; mean BMI = 24.60 ± 0.74 kg/m2) who randomly were placed in 4 dry needling, massage therapy, stretching exercises and Kinesio tape groups. The duration of each intervention was 30 min. The dependent variables in this study included the massage range of motion, position sense tests and visual pain scale that were taken separately from each subject in pretest, posttest (acute effect) and follow-up test (72 h after posttest; short-term effect). The results of a 4 (groups) × 3 (time) the mixed ANOVAs showed that pain in the short-term phase was significantly lower in the dry needling group than in the stretching and massage groups (P < 0.05). Also in the acute effect phase, the flexion range of motion was significantly lower in the dry needling group than in the massage group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the two groups of stretching and massage exercises showed significantly greater range of motion (P < 0.05). Other comparisons were not significant (P > 0.05). The findings of the study showed that both massage and stretching treatment have higher acute effects, while dry needling treatment was more effective in follow up. On the other hand, these findings show that these treatment methods can have immediate and lasting positive effects in improving the performance in elite bodybuilders with non-specific chronic low back pain.

Massage Therapy as a Self-Management Strategy for Musculoskeletal Pain and Chronic Conditions: A Systematic Review of Feasibility and Scope

Background: Musculoskeletal pain and chronic conditions are associated with deteriorating pain, stress, anxiety, and health-related quality of life (HR-QOL). There is emerging evidence that performing massage therapy as self-management (MTSM) is a viable approach to alleviate these symptoms across various clinical populations. However, a significant gap remains on the effectiveness and limitation of MTSM usage as no systematic review has been conducted to comprehensively evaluate and synthesize the scope, feasibility, and efficacy of MTSM. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of MTSM on common symptoms of musculoskeletal and chronic conditions, followed by identifying characteristics of MTSM dosage, setting, and adherence for formulating themes. Methods: A systematic review was carried out using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method, which involved searching seven electronic databases, including Medline (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO), PEDro, Web of Science (Clarivate), PsycINFO (EBSCO), Google Scholar, and EMBASE (Elsevier) from inception to January 2023. Clinical studies were eligible if they included MTSM, and massage treatment was more than 50% of the intervention. The quality of studies was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool. Target variables were extracted, including study design, participants' characteristics, outcome measures, massage dosage (duration, frequency, and timing), training setting, provider of massage training, adherence to the MTSM intervention, comparator, and key findings. Results: A total of 17 studies were evaluated and included 770 participants (female: N = 606) with musculoskeletal pain or chronic conditions. The emerged themes for MTSM utilization consisted of arthritis pain (knee, n = 3; neck, n = 1, hand, n = 2), neck and back pain (n = 4), and stress and anxiety (n = 3). Prescribed self-administered massage duration ranged from a single session to a maximum of 8-12 weeks, where 4 weeks (n = 8) was the most commonly prescribed duration. Out of 11 studies that used MTSM as a solo modality, 7 studies (41.2%) showed significant improvement in the outcome measures such as chronic neck and back pain, stress or anxiety, fatigue, quality of sleep, and HR-QOL. In addition, health benefits, including anxiety, depression, pain intensity, and pain threshold, were observed in six studies (35.3%) where MTSM was applied as a coadjuvant modality, which was combined with therapist-applied massage and physiotherapy. Conclusions: These findings support that MTSM is a viable approach to enhance the benefit of therapist-applied massage or as a solo modality for symptom management of musculoskeletal pain and chronic conditions. The review provides suggestions for design improvement, such as reporting participants' adherence to the prescribed massage regimen, that would be informative for providing a robust understanding of the magnitude or the extent to which MTSM is effective. Future studies on MTSM intervention are encouraged to use a theoretical framework and validated measures for determining and facilitating treatment fidelity.

A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Therapies Used by Nurses in Children Undergoing Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify non-pharmacological pain relief therapies in children undergoing surgery.

DESIGN AND DATA SOURCES

Using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings and "Descriptores en Ciencias de la Salud" we searched for articles in the Web of Science, Scopus, Cuiden, PubMed, and CINHAL databases from the last five years, and performed a reverse search. We assessed the documentary quality of the articles using various standardized instruments.

RESULTS

The final review included eleven studies. In terms of cognitive-behavioral techniques, there is evidence that both music and video therapy are effective in reducing postoperative pain in children in seven studies, and therapeutic play in five studies. Other methods used less frequently but found to be effective included laughter therapy in one study and deep breathing in another. Regarding physical methods of pain relief, massage was found to be an effective non-pharmacological therapy for reducing pediatric postoperative pain in two studies and ineffective in another.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we highlight the importance of non-pharmacological therapies in pediatric postoperative pain management. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, especially music therapy, video therapy, and therapeutic play, reduce pediatric postoperative pain. They are therefore effective therapies that nurses can use in this area. Further research into the effectiveness of storytelling is necessary, as the evidence is not entirely conclusive. More evidence is also needed on physical methods of pain relief, particularly massage.

Pediatric massage therapy for treatment of tic disorders in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Tic disorder is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in childhood, characterized primarily by motor or vocal tics. However, there is no systematic evaluation of pediatric massage therapy for children with Tic disorder. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy for children with tic disorder through a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review.

METHODS

We systematically searched relevant randomized controlled trials from various databases such as CBM, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang database, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SINOMED, published up to October 2023. To collect randomized controlled trials on pediatric massage therapy or in combination with other therapies for the treatment of tic disorders in children. The risk of bias in the included articles was assessed using the Cochrane guideline. Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.4, and publication bias was evaluated by using Begg test and Egger test in Stata SE software.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 19 randomized controlled trials with 1423 patients. Pediatric massage therapy alone or in combination with conventional medication demonstrated a significant increase in clinical effectiveness rates [risk ratios = 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] (1.10, 1.20), Z = 6.54, P < .001], and reduced Yale Global Tie Severity Scale scores [standardized mean difference = -0.85, 95% CI (-1.50, -0.19), Z = 2.54, P = .01] and traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores [standardized mean difference = -1.35, 95%CI (-2.08, -0.63), Z = 3.66, P = .0002]. In terms of adverse reactions, there was no statistical difference between the experimental and control groups [risk ratios = 0.26, 95% CI (0.14, 0.49), Z = 4.25, P < .001]. The Begg test and Egger test results indicated no publication bias.

CONCLUSION

Evidence suggests that pediatric massage therapy is effective in improving tic disorders in children.

Efficacy of Massage Techniques for Hypertrophic Burn Scars - A Systematic Review of Literature

Despite advancements in burn care, evidence estimates that pathological scarring occurs in 32%-75% of cutaneous burns. Scar massage therapy is an under researched method of management for hypertrophic burn scars which has scope to be a low-cost treatment alternative. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the efficacy of scar massage techniques for common hypertrophic burn scar symptoms such as contraction, pruritus, pain and visibility. The keywords and corresponding MeSH terms were inputed into PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane database of Systematic Reviews, University Library of Hull, York and Queen Mary, University of London. Following the implementation of predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, ten papers were included for data extraction. Quality assessment of all papers was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I tool. Data pertaining to the nature of the participant demographics, scar massage treatment, and study outcomes was extracted. Nine of the ten studies showed a significant improvement for scar massage treatment of hypertrophic burn scar symptoms despite using different massage techniques. Friction and oscillation massage was used in partnership to improve scar function, whereas effleurage and petrissage used in longer sessions was seen to improve scar visibility and pain. Scar pruritus was improved by each massage technique. Scar massage has been shown to be effective at improving scar outcomes. This paper suggests massage techniques should be tailored to the patients' symptoms. A large, randomized control trial is required to advance this area of research.

Effects of Parent-Delivered Traditional Thai Massage on Gait and Heart Rate Variability in Children with Autism: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Aim: To examine the effects of parent-delivered traditional Thai massage (TTM) intervention on heart rate variability (HRV) and gait in children with autism. Methods: This was a two-armed, randomized controlled trial conducted at the Haikou Special Education School in Haikou Province, China, between October 2021 and March 2022. A total of 48 children with autism, aged between 7 and 12 years, were selected from the school and randomly divided into either the parent-delivered TTM group or the control group (no intervention) in a 1:1 ratio. In addition to their regular daily school routines, the TTM group received 16 TTM interventions (twice a week), with each session lasting ∼50 min. HRV and gait parameters were measured at baseline, completion of the 8-week intervention, and 2 months follow-up. Results: The results of this study showed that the TTM intervention had a notable positive effect on HRV, with a significant reduction in low-frequency value (p = 0.001), and increased high-frequency value (p = 0.001), compared with the controls, and the advantages persisted during the follow-up period. However, only the stride length in the TTM group was significantly longer than that in the control group at the post-test (p = 0.039) and follow-up test (p = 0.043), while none of the other parameters of gait comparison showed statistical significance. Conclusions: Parent-delivered Thai massage increased HRV levels and stride length in comparison to the control group, and some effects of the intervention were maintained over the follow-up period. Clinical Trials Registry Identifier ChiCTR2100051355; September 21, 2021.

Salivary Cortisol Levels and Clinical Signs of Stress in Premature Neonates Treated with Vimala Massage: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: In neonatal intensive care units across the world, premature neonates are exposed to a very stressful environment with high levels of noise, bright lights, pain, infections, invasive procedures, and a lack of maternal contact. Stress is manifested by increased cortisol levels and clinical signs of stress. Objective: To assess the impact of Vimala massage on (1) salivary cortisol levels (primary outcome) and (2) clinical signs of stress (secondary outcomes) in premature neonates. Methods: Neonates (28-36 weeks gestational age) admitted to a nursery unit were randomized one-to-one to receive 15-20 min of Vimala massage administered by their parents twice daily and usual care, or to usual care alone. Salivary cortisol levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on days 1 and 5. Heart rate, respiratory rate, caloric intake, weight gain, and growth were recorded daily. Groups were compared with t tests, U-tests, and repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: Seventy neonates, 35 in each group, were included. Groups were comparable at baseline. The median decrease in salivary cortisol levels was 0.12 μg/dL in the massage group and 0.07 μg/dL in the control group (p = 0.22). Over 5 days, the massage group had significant decreases in resting heart rate (p = 0.003) and respiratory rate (p = 0.028), and greater weight gains (p = 0.0002), relative to controls. Conclusions: In this randomized trial, adding Vimala massage to usual nursery care was not associated with a significant decrease in salivary cortisol levels in premature neonates, when compared with usual nursery care alone. There were improvements in clinical signs of stress.

The Effects of 2 Different Soft Tissue Mobilization Techniques on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness in Male Recreational Athletes: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

CONTEXT

Soft tissue mobilization is frequently employed for delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) management. Foam roller and percussive massage are 2 popular soft tissue mobilization methods preferred by various professionals. However, their effects on DOMS symptoms are controversial and there are no studies comparing these 2 methods. The aim of the present study was to compare the acute effects of soft tissue mobilization with a foam roller or a percussive massage device on DOMS in young male recreational athletes.

DESIGN

A parallel, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Thirty-six participants (median [interquartile range 25/75]; age: 20.0 [19.3/21.0] y) were randomly allocated to percussive massage group (n = 12), foam roller group (n = 12), and control group (n = 12). First, a fatigue protocol targeting quadriceps femoris was performed. Then, participants received soft tissue mobilization with foam roller/percussive massage or rested for 10 minutes according to their groups. Pain and fatigue were evaluated by a visual analog scale, and the skin surface temperature of over the quadriceps femoris was measured with thermal camera imaging. Evaluations were performed at baseline, following fatigue protocol, at 24th hour, and at 48th hour. Changes from the baseline at 24th and 48th hours were compared between groups.

RESULTS

No significant between-group differences were observed at the assessments performed at 24th or 48th hour regarding the changes from baseline in pain (P value for 24th hour = .905, P value for 48th hour = .733), fatigue (P value for 24th hour = .895, P value for 48th hour = .606), or skin surface temperature measurements (P values for 24th hour = between .300 and .925, P values for 48th hour = between .311 and .750).

CONCLUSIONS

Soft tissue mobilizations applied with foam roller or percussive massage device do not seem to be superior to passive resting in alleviating DOMS symptoms in recreational athletes.

Massage, laser and shockwave therapy improve pain and scar pruritus after burns: a systematic review

QUESTIONS

In adults with a burn injury, do non-invasive therapies improve pain and burn scar pruritus, elasticity and vascularisation? Are any effects maintained beyond the intervention period?

DESIGN

Systematic review of randomised trials with meta-analyses.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults with burn scars.

INTERVENTION

The experimental intervention was a non-invasive (ie, non-surgical or non-pharmacological) therapy applied to the burn scar.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Pain intensity, pruritus intensity, elasticity and vascularisation.

RESULTS

Fifteen trials involving 780 participants were included. The results indicated a beneficial effect on pain intensity on a 0-to-10 scale after massage (MD -1.5, 95% CI -1.8 to -1.1), shockwave therapy (MD -0.8, 95% CI -1.2 to -0.4) and laser (MD -4.0, 95% CI -6.0 to -2.0). The results indicated a beneficial effect on pruritus intensity on a 0-to-10 scale after massage (MD -0.4, 95% CI -0.7 to -0.2), shockwave therapy (MD -1.3, 95% CI -2.3 to -0.3) and laser (MD -4.8, 95% CI -6.1 to -3.5). Massage, shockwave therapy and silicone produced negligible or unclear benefits on scar elasticity and vascularisation. The quality of evidence varied from low to moderate.

CONCLUSION

Among all commonly used non-invasive therapies for the treatment of burn scars, low-to-moderate quality evidence indicated that massage, laser and shockwave therapy reduce pain and the intensity of scar pruritus. Low-to-moderate quality evidence suggested that massage, shockwave therapy and silicone have negligible or unclear effects for improving scar elasticity and vascularisation.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42021258336).

The effect of position change and abdominal massage on anxiety, pain and distension after colonoscopy: A randomized clinical trial

CONTEXT

Pain, abdominal distention, and anxiety are major risk factors encountered after colonoscopy. Complementary and alternative treatments, such as abdominal massage and position change, are used to reduce the associated risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of position change and abdominal massage on anxiety, pain, and distension after colonoscopy.

DESIGN

A randomized three-group experimental trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

This study was conducted with 123 patients who underwent colonoscopy at the endoscopy unit of a hospital located in western Turkey.

METHODS

Three groups were formed: two interventional (abdominal massage and position change) and one control, each including 41 patients. Data were gathered using a personal information form, pre- and post-colonoscopy measurement form, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Pain and comfort levels, abdominal circumference values, and vital signs of the patients were measured at four evaluation times.

RESULTS

In the abdominal massage group, the VAS pain scores and abdominal circumference measurements decreased the most and the VAS comfort scores increased the most 15 min after the patients were taken to the recovery room (p<0.05). Furthermore, bowel sounds were heard, and bloating was relieved in all patients in both intervention groups 15 min after they were taken to the recovery room.

CONCLUSIONS

Abdominal massage and position change can be considered effective interventions for relieving bloating and facilitating flatulence after colonoscopy. Moreover, abdominal massage can be a powerful method for reducing pain and abdominal circumference and increasing patient comfort.

Effects of percussion massage therapy, dynamic stretching, and static stretching on physical performance and balance

BACKGROUND

Percussion massage therapy is a popular approach in sport medicine for physical therapists, but few researchers have investigated the comparison with other intervention methods.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the comparison of the effects of dynamic stretching, static stretching and percussive massage therapy on balance and physical performance in individuals.

METHODS

The participants who were 18-25 years of age, able to perform performance tests, did not have any orthopedic surgery, did not have problems during running and sudden turning, and did not have a professional sports history were included in the study. Participants were assigned randomly to three groups as dynamic stretching (DS) (n= 16), static stretching (SS) (n= 16) and percussive massage therapy (PMT) (n= 16) groups. Horizontal jumping test, T drill test and balance measurements on a single leg with open and closed eyes of all participants were recorded before and after applications.

RESULTS

When the values of the pre and post-treatment of all groups in the study were compared, significant improvements were observed in the t-test, horizontal jumping test and right/left foot balance with eyes open in DS group (p< 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in all values in the PMT group (p< 0.05). In the comparison of the differences between the groups, PMT group values were more significant than the SS group in all parameters.

CONCLUSION

Percussive massage therapy would be an alternative that can be used to increase the performance and balance of individuals before exercise.

Infant massage as a stress management technique for parents of hospitalized extremely preterm infants

Mothers of infants born extremely preterm requiring prolonged medical intervention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are at high risk of developing stress. Parent-administered infant massage is a well-established, safe intervention for preterm infants with many developmental benefits, but the published literature has mostly examined its impact on infants and parents through self-reported or observational measures of stress. The aim of this study was to measure salivary cortisol, a biomarker for stress, in extremely preterm infants and their mothers immediately pre and post parent-administered infant massage in order to detect potential changes in physiologic stress. Twenty-two mother-infant dyads completed massage education with a physical or occupational therapist. All dyads provided salivary cortisol samples via buccal swab immediately pre- and post-massage at the second session. Of mothers determined to be "cortisol responders" (15/22), salivary cortisol levels were lower after massage (pre-minus post-level: -26.47 ng/dL, [CI = -4.40, -48.53], p = .016, paired t-test). Our primary findings include a clinically significant decrease (as measured by percent change) in maternal cortisol levels immediately post parent-administered massage, indicating decreased physiological stress. Integration of infant massage into NICU clinical practice may support maternal mental health, but further powered studies are necessary to confirm findings.

Scientific knowledge graph and trend analysis of Tuina: A bibliometric analysis

OBJECTIVES

Tuina is an effective complementary and alternative therapy. However, no bibliometric analysis has explored the global research status and emerging trends of tuina. Therefore, our study aimed to provide a perspective on the current state and frontier trends in the field.

DESIGN

Bibliometric analysis SETTING: Tuina-related publications between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2022, were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection database.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The knowledge graph software CiteSpace and VOSViewer were used to quantitatively analyse annual trends in annual publication volume, journals, countries, institutions, authors, cited references, and keywords.

RESULTS

Overall, 1877 articles were obtained. Consequently, the number of annual publications in tuina gradually increased. China published the most articles (1402 articles, 58.01%), followed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (110 articles, 2.57%). Original and review articles were the two main types of publications. Photonics Research ranked first (101 articles, 5.38%) as the most influential affiliate and productive journal. These articles come from 8423 authors, among whom Min Fang published the most publications, and Ernst E was co-cited most often. According to the keyword co-occurrence analysis, the new research frontiers were meta-analyses.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive bibliometric study analysed the publications on tuina and presented them visually, revealing new research trends, pivotal points, research hotspots, and frontiers. Prospective strategies and potential directions for further studies were also provided.

Ice Massage on the Calf Improves 4-km Running Time Trial Performance in a Normothermic Environment

Purpose: Local cooling with ice massage is a practical and inexpensive technique to decrease perceptual stress and improve motor performance in hot environments. However, it is unknown whether local cooling with ice massage reduces perceptual responses to exercise and improves performance in a normothermic environment. Thus, we investigated whether ice massage on the calf muscles before a 4 km running time trial (TT4km) reduced the ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and perceived muscle pain, thereby improving exercise performance in a normothermic environment. Methods: After familiarizations, fourteen recreationally endurance-trained men (age = 21.3 ± 1.2 years; body weight = 67.5 ± 9.2 kg; height = 173.0 ± 5.0 cm) underwent two TT4km on a 400 m track in normothermic conditions with or without ice massage before the trial. The time of running, RPE, and pain perception were recorded every 400 m throughout the TT4km. Results: The local cooling with ice massage increased the mean speed (~ 5.2%, p = 0.03) and decreased the time to complete the TT4km (~ 5.5%, p = 0.03). Accordingly, ice massage also reduced the exercise-derived pain perception (p = 0.028), although no effect has been found in the RPE during the TT4km (p = 0.32). Conclusion: Together, these results showed that local cooling with ice massage before the exercise reduced the exercise-derived pain perception, enabling runners to increase the speed for a comparable RPE during exercise, thereby improving the TT4km performance in a normothermic environment.

Effect of hand reflexology in ameliorating anxiety, pain, and fatigue among patients undergoing coronary angiography

BACKGROUND

Reflexology is a popular non-invasive complementary medicine technique to enhance anxiety, pain, and fatigue among patients undergoing coronary angiography.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand reflexology in ameliorating anxiety, pain, and fatigue among patients undergoing coronary angiography.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental research design was used on 60 patients undergoing coronary angiography at Alexandria Main University Hospital's cardiology department (30 patients in each study and control group). Four tools were used to collect data: the socio-demographic and clinical data assessment sheet, the visual analogue scale, the Rhoten fatigue scale, and the Beck anxiety inventory.

RESULTS

Scores of moderate anxiety, intractable pain, and severe fatigue among the study group significantly decreased after 2 h and three days of applying hand reflexology.

CONCLUSION

The current study findings showed that hand reflexology is a simple, non-invasive nursing intervention that is effective and useful for managing pain, fatigue, and anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography as it resulted in a significant reduction in the severity of pain, fatigue, and anxiety after coronary angiography in the study group compared to the control group.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the clinical trial.gov database (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05887362 , 23/05/2023).

Effect of Sustained Uterine Compression versus Uterine Massage on Blood Loss after Vaginal Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of sustained uterine compression versus uterine massage in reducing blood loos after a vaginal delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective randomized trial conducted at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) between October 2015 and October 2017. Inclusion criteria were women with a singleton pregnancy at ≥36 weeks of gestation, with less than three previous deliveries, who were candidates for vaginal delivery. Participants were randomized into two groups, a sustained uterine compression group (group 1) and a uterine massage group (group 2). Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (blood loss of ≥500 mL) was the primary outcome. We assumed that the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage at our institution is similar to previously published studies. A total of 545 women were required in each arm to detect a reduction from 9.6 to 4.8% in the primary outcome (50% reduction) with a one-sided α of 0.05 and a power of 80%. Factoring in a 10% dropout rate. Secondary outcomes were admission to intensive care unit (ICU), postpartum complications, drop in hemoglobin, duration of hospital stay, maternal pain, use of uterotonics, or of surgical procedure for postpartum hemorrhage.

RESULTS

A total of 550 pregnant women were recruited, 273 in group 1 and 277 in group 2. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Type of anesthesia, rate of episiotomy, lacerations, and mean birth weight were also equal between the groups. Incidence of the primary outcome was not different between the two groups (group 1: 15.5%, group 2: 15.4%; p = 0.98). There was no statistically significant difference in any of the secondary outcomes between the two groups, including drop in hemoglobin (p = 0.79).

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in blood loss between sustained uterine compression and uterine massage after vaginal delivery.

KEY POINTS

· Transabdominal uterine compression and uterine massage are appropriate to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.. · No significant difference in blood loss or maternal discomfort observed between the two techniques.. · Both methods are equally effective and either one can be used based on provider preference..

Effectiveness of infant massage on babies growth, mother-baby attachment and mothers' self-confidence: A randomized controlled trial

Infant massage is a unique massage that can be application to babies in the postpartum period for centuries. While baby massage provides contact between the baby and the mother, it supports the growth processes of the baby. This study aimed to investigate the effects of online infant massage training on infant growth, mother-infant attachment, and mothers' self-confidence. This randomized controlled clinical trial included 60 healthy-term infants and mother. The Demographic Data Collection Form, Maternal Attachment Scale, and Pharis Self-Confidence Scale were completed by all the mothers participating in the study. At the end of the 4th week, infant massage training was given to the mothers of the babies in the massage group by the primary investigator. Body weight, height, and head circumference measurements were made at the end of the 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, and 20th week of both group babies. At the end of the 20th week, the self-confidence of the mothers in both groups was assessed using the Maternal Attachment Scale and Pharis Self-Confidence Scale. Infants in the massage group had significantly higher mean body weight at the end of the 8th week (p = 0.006) and mean height at the end of 20th week (p = 0.05) than the infants in the control group. The Maternal Attachment Scale values were higher for the mothers in the massage group (p = 0.030). Infant massage is an effective method that strengthens maternal attachment and increases body weight and height in infants. The study is registered under the ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT05302427.

Self-Massage Techniques for the Management of Pain and Mobility With Application to Resistance Training: A Brief Review

ABSTRACT

MacLennan, M, Ramirez-Campillo, R, and Byrne, PJ. Self-massage techniques for the management of pain and mobility with application to resistance training: a brief review. J Strength Cond Res 37(11): 2314-2323, 2023-Fascial restrictions that occur in response to myofascial trigger points (MTrP), exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), and delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) cause soft tissue to lose extensibility, which contributes to abnormal muscle mechanics, reduced muscle length, and decrements in joint range of motion (ROM) and actively contributes to musculoskeletal pain. Resistance training and in particular, weightlifting movements have unique mobility requirements imperative for movement efficacy and safety with ROM restrictions resulting in ineffective volume and intensity tolerance and dampened force output and power, which may lead to a failed lift or injury. Self-massage (SM) provides an expedient method to promote movement efficiency and reduce injury risk by improving ROM, muscular function, and reducing pain and allows athletes to continue to train at their desired frequency with minimal disruption from MTrPs-associated adverse effects. Thus, the aim of this review was to determine the efficacy of various self-massage tools in managing pain and mobility and to explore the potential benefits of SM on resistance training performance. Many SM devices are available for athletes to manage ROM restrictions and pain, including differing densities of foam rollers, roller massagers, tennis balls, and vibrating devices. To attenuate adverse training effects, a 10-to-20-minute bout consisting of 2-minute bouts of SM on the affected area may be beneficial. When selecting a SM device, athletes should note that foam rollers appear to be more effective than roller massagers, with vibrating foam rollers eliciting an increased reduction to pain perception, and tennis balls and soft massage balls were shown to be efficacious in targeting smaller affected areas.

Massage manipulation and progression of osteosarcoma, does it really correlate: a combination of prospective and retrospective cohort study

In Indonesia, the challenge of osteosarcoma progression is further worsened by patients' dependence on traditional massage therapy, low socio-economy, and educational status. This study aims to analyze the differences in the characteristics, laboratory findings, surgery techniques, degree of histopathological necrosis, and metastasis between osteosarcoma patients with and without prior massage manipulation therapy. This research is an analytical observational study with a prospective and retrospective cohort design. Patients were treated and followed for one year to evaluate the occurrence of metastasis. Prospective data was collected through interviews, and secondary data was collected from the patient's medical record. Of 84 subjects analyzed, 69% had a history of massage. There was an increase in LDH and ALP in patients with massage manipulation (p = 0.026). The median time to metastasis from baseline in the massage group (4 months) was statistically significant compared to the non-manipulation group (12 months) (p < 0.0001). This research found that massage therapy significantly increases LDH and ALP levels, making amputations more likely to be performed and a higher risk of metastasis that lowered the survival rate. The onset of metastasis was three times faster in patients with prior massage therapy. Therefore, we strongly recommend against massage manipulation therapy in osteosarcoma patients.

The effect of foot reflexology on fatigue in hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis study

OBJECTIVE

this meta-analysis study analyzed the effect of foot reflexology on fatigue in hemodialysis patients by combining the results of independent studies on this subject.

METHOD

meta-analysis study. A literature search was conducted in seven databases. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using tools proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis v3 was used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. The result of the meta-analysis standardized mean difference = 1.580 (95% Confidence Interval = 1.075 - 2.085 p = 0.000). The result of the subgroup analysis performed based on the number of foot reflexology sessions standardized mean difference = 1,478 (95% Confidence Interval = 1,210 - 1,747, p = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

it was concluded that foot reflexology can be used to reduce fatigue in hemodialysis patients. No information was provided in the investigated studies about the possible side effects and negative effects of foot reflexology. (1) This study found that foot reflexology reduced fatigue levels. (2) The 10-session foot reflexology was the most effective. (3) This study will guide nurses and health workers. (4) Reflexology is one of the non-pharmacological methods used to relieve fatigue.

Effectiveness and safety of digital rectal stimulation and abdominal massage for neurogenic bowel dysfunction in stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial protocol

BACKGROUND

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is a prevalent complication among stroke patients, significantly affecting their quality of life, duration of hospitalization, medical expenses, and even mortality. Although current guidelines suggest a conservative strategy for addressing bowel dysfunction, which includes techniques such as digital rectal stimulation (DRS) and abdominal massage, the availability of interventions remains limited in healthcare facilities.

METHODS

This study follows a prospective randomized controlled parallel-group clinical trial design. The control group will receive standard care, while the intervention group will undergo a program that combines DRS and abdominal massage in addition to standard care. The duration of the intervention for both groups will be 6 weeks. The primary outcome measures will be the Wexner score. Furthermore, secondary outcomes measure will be assessed, including Bristol score, Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QoL), and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FI-QoL).

DISCUSSION

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a bowel rehabilitation program for stroke patients with NBD. The findings will provide information that can contribute to the formulation of bowel management strategies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study has been registered in the Chinese Clinical Registry under the number ChiCTR2300071709. This registration was completed on May 23, 2023. All items from the World Health Organization Trial Registration Data set are described in this manuscript.

Antenatal perineal massage - risk of perineal injuries, pain, urinary incontinence and dyspereunia - a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Natural childbirth is associated with the risk of damage to the perineum - a tears or a episiotomy. Adequate preparation of the woman for childbirth is essential to minimize the occurrence of perinatal injuries.

AIM

The aim of the review is to assess and analyze the impact of APM (antental perineal massage) on perinatal perineal injuries and the development of pelvic pain and other complications in postpartum women, such as dyspareunia, urinary (UI), gas (GI), and fecal incontinence (FI).

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase were searched. Three authors independently searched databases and selected articles for inclusion and exclusion criteria. Next one author did Risk of Bias 2 and ROBINS 1 analyze.

FINDINGS

Of 711 articles, 18 publications were left for the review. All 18 studies examined the risk of perineal injuries (tearing and episiotomy), 7 pain in postpartum period, 6 postpartum urinary, gas/fecal incontinence and 2 described dyspareunia. Most authors described APM from 34 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. There were different techniques and times for doing APM procedures.

DISCUSSION

APM has many benefits for women during labor and the postpartum period (e.g. lower rate of perineal injuries and pain). However, it can be observed that individual publications differ from each other in the time of massage, the period and frequency of its performance, the form of obtaining instruction and control of patients. These components may affect the results obtained.

CONCLUSION

APM can protects the perineum from injuries during labor. It also reduces risk of fecal and gas incontinence in postpartum period.

Knowledge, attitude and acceptability regarding antenatal perineal massage in Thai pregnant women

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Antenatal perineal massage for obstetric anal sphincter injury prevention is not routinely performed in Thailand. Due to the cultural conservatism in the country, attitudes and acceptability need to be evaluated before procedure implementation. This research was conducted to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability of antenatal perineal massage and identify associated factors for acceptability in antenatal perineal massage among Thai pregnant women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the antenatal clinic at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand between July 2021 and June 2022. Thai women with singleton pregnancies at 22 weeks or more of gestation without an indication for cesarean section were enrolled. Knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability of antenatal perineal massage were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. In-depth interviews with pregnant women who were not interested in antenatal perineal massage were also completed.

RESULTS

A total of 144 pregnant women were enrolled with 119 participants (83%) having an accepting attitude about antenatal perineal massage. Results on knowledge included 22 (15%) participants aware of this practice, 46 participants (31.9%) knew it should be practiced after GA 34 weeks, 52 participants (36.1%) knew the massage should be maintained for 5-10 min, and 37 participants (25.7%) knew it should be performed daily. Factors associated with acceptability of antenatal perineal massage were prior interest in perineal massage and trust in the benefit of the perineal massage in facilitating vaginal delivery. Reasons for disagreeing in antenatal perineal massage included never hearing of perineal massage, concern about pregnancy complications, fear of pain, believing it to be a useless procedure, and previous successful vaginal delivery.

CONCLUSIONS

We found high acceptability for antenatal perineal massage. This program should be routinely explained and offered to Thai pregnant women to prevent severe perineal trauma and postpartum complications.

The effects of massage with frankincense and myrrh oil in chronic low back pain: A three-arm randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Chronic low back pain is a common problem that impairs the activities of daily life. Massage therapy is one of the non-pharmacological treatment modalities in chronic low back pain. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of aromatherapy massage on pain and disability in patients with chronic low back pain.

METHODS

Data were collected between August-December 2020 in a physical therapy clinic of a university hospital. The control, massage and aromatherapy massage groups included 30, 31 and 30 patients, respectively. Two sessions of low back massage per week were applied to the aromatherapy group with frankincense and myyrh essential oils and to the placebo group with jojoba oil. Massage was not applied to the control group. Outcome measures were Visual Analogue Scale, Aberdeen Low Back Pain Scale and Roland-Morris Disability Scale.

RESULTS

In the results of study, the decrease in Visual Analogue Scale (p < 0.001), Aberdeen Low Back Pain Scale (p < 0.001) and Roland-Morris Disability Scale (p < 0.001) scores of the aromatherapy group was found to be statistically higher than the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

As a result, aromatherapy massage with frankincense and myyrh essential oils can be integrated to medical treatments to relieve pain and reduce disability in an individual's daily life in chronic low back pain.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04494165.

Massage therapy in palliative care populations: a narrative review of literature from 2012 to 2022

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Patients living with serious illness are often eligible for palliative care and experience physical symptoms including pain or dyspnea and psychological distress that negatively impacts health-related quality of life and other outcomes. Such patients often benefit from massage therapy to reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life when such treatment is available. At present, no synthesis or review exists exploring massage therapy specifically provided with palliative care patient populations. This review is needed because those with serious illness are a growing and important vulnerable population. Massage therapy is used frequently and in many healthcare delivery contexts, but the body of research has not led to its systematic integration or broad acceptance.

METHODS

PubMed search for clinical research focused on massage therapy for palliative care-eligible populations from 2012 and 2022. Search terms included keywords: massage, massage therapy, serious illness, advanced illness, and palliative care.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS

Thirteen unique articles were identified through the PubMed database search and from a manual review of references. Study designs of included articles were one pilot, one quasi-experimental single-arm study, one mixed-methods study, two qualitative (both with hospital-based palliative care populations), seven randomized controlled trials, and one retrospective cohort analysis in a major Veterans Health Administration health care facility.

CONCLUSIONS

Variability was found in study design, scope, sample size, and outcomes for related articles published in the last ten years. Few eligible interventions reflected real-world massage therapy delivery suggesting more clinical research is needed to examine massage provided by massage therapists trained to work with palliative care populations. Gaps in the current body of existing evidence supports the need for this review and recommendations for the direction of future related research.

Effects of the Foam Massage Roller on VEGF-A and FGF-2 Blood Levels in Young Men

BACKGROUND/AIM

Angiogenesis induced in muscles or massaged tissue is thought to support their regeneration and performance. Therefore, different methods that could promote angiogenesis are investigated. The aim of this study was to examine whether the use of the foam roller massager for lower limb muscles affects VEGF-A and FGF-2 levels in young men.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group included 60 healthy young men attending Military University of Land Forces, Wroclaw, Poland. The participants were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group included 40 individuals who performed self-massage of the lower limbs using a foam roller. The control group comprised 20 individuals who did not perform massage. Massage was applied to lower limb muscles four times a week for seven weeks. Blood was collected before the experiment and after weeks 1, 3, 5, and 7. ELISA was used to determine changes in VEGF-A and FGF-2 levels in blood serum.

RESULTS

The results of the study demonstrated a significant increase in VEGF-A serum levels in the group of individuals who underwent massage each week compared to VEGF-A concentrations before the experiment. The increase in VEGF-A levels in the experimental group was observed throughout the experiment compared to the control group. No significant changes in serum FGF-2 levels were found.

CONCLUSION

The use of a foam massage roller increased VEGF-A serum levels, which may indicate stimulation of angiogenesis.

Perineal massage and warm compresses - Randomised controlled trial for reduce perineal trauma during labor

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of perineal massage and warm compresses technique on the perineum integrity during second stage of labor.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted between March 1st, 2019, and December 31st, 2020, at Hospital of Braga.

PARTICIPANTS

Women with 18 years or older, between 37 weeks and 41 weeks pregnant, in whom a vaginal birth of a fetus in the cephalic presentation was planned were recruited. Eight hundred forty-eight women were randomly assigned (Perineal massage and warm compresses group, n = 424 and control group, n = 424), and 800 women, both perineal massage and warm compresses group (n = 400) and control group (n = 400) were included in the strict per protocol analysis.

INTERVENTION

In the perineal massage and warm compresses group, women received perineal massage and warm compresses and in the control group, women received hands-on technique.

RESULTS

The incidence of intact perineum was significantly higher in the perineal massage and warm compresses group [perineal massage and warm compresses group: 47% vs control group: 26.3%; OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.86-3.45, p<0.001], whereas second-degree tears and episiotomy rate were significantly lower in this group [perineal massage and warm compresses group: 7.2% vs control group: 12.3%; OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.17-3.29, p = 0.010 and perineal massage and warm compresses group: 9.5% vs control group: 28.5%; OR 3.478, 95% CI 2.236-5.409, p<0.001, respectively]. Also, obstetric anal sphincter injury with and without episiotomy and second-degree tears with episiotomy were significantly lower in the perineal massage and warm compresses group [perineal massage and warm compresses group: 0.5% vs control group: 2.3%; OR 5.404, 95% CI 1.077-27.126, p = 0.040 and perineal massage and warm compresses group: 0.3% vs control group: 1.8%; OR 9.253, 95% CI 1.083-79.015, p = 0.042, respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

The perineal massage and warm compresses technique increased the incidence of intact perineum and reduced the incidence of second-degree tear, episiotomy and obstetric anal sphincter injury.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Perineal massage and warm compresses technique is feasible, inexpensive and reproductible. Therefore, this technique should be taught and trained to midwives students and midwives team. Thus, women should have this information and have the option to decide whether they want to receive the perineal massage and warm compresses technique in the second stage of labor.

Effects of the combination of traditional Thai massage, scapular stabilization exercise, and chest mobilization in subjects with forward head posture: a single-blinded randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Forward head posture (FHP) is  a common condition where the head appears to be positioned in front of the vertical midline of the body. FHP is associated with shortening of the neck extensors and pectoral muscles, and the deep neck flexors and shoulder retractors are weakened. FHP is also found to cause decreases in respiratory function. Few clinical trials have investigated the effects of combination treatments to alleviate these problems. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of combination of traditional Thai massage, scapular stabilization exercise, and chest mobilization on forward head angle (FHA), forced vital capacity (FVC), and cervical flexion in subjects with FHP.

METHODS

Forty-eight subjects with FHP were randomly allocated to a treatment group receiving a Combination of Traditional Thai massage, Scapular stabilization exercise, and Chest mobilization (CTSC group) (n = 24) and a control group (relaxed by lying supine) (n = 24). FHA, FVC, and cervical flexion were measured before and after the four-week intervention (Week 4) and one month after the intervention period (Week 8).

RESULTS

The CTSC group showed statistically significantly greater improvement in FHA and cervical flexion than the control group at Week 4 (FHA, mean difference - 6.05; 95% CI - 8.03, - 4.07; cervical flexion, mean difference 6.84; 95% CI 3.14, 10.55) and Week 8 (FHA, mean difference - 4.64; 95% CI ( - 6.71, - 2.58); cervical flexion, mean difference 5.21; 95% CI 0.84, 9.58). There were no significant between-group differences in FVC at week 4 (mean difference 0.09; 95% CI - 0.06, 0.23) and week 8 (mean difference 0.04; 95% CI - 0.11, 0.19).

CONCLUSION

This study showed that CTSC had a positive effect on FHA and cervical flexion in subjects with FHP.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) (Identification number: TCTR20211119001), registered 19 November 2021; https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20211119001 .

Pain Reduction and Posture Alignment Improvement in Older Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Novel Approach Using Spinal Thermal Massage Bed and Calf Pneumatic Cell Compression

BACKGROUND Chronic low back pain (CLBP) significantly affects the well-being of older adults, leading to diminished quality of life and heightened stress. Existing treatments have limited effectiveness and potential side effects. This study aimed to explore an integrative approach, employing a combination of spinal thermal massage bed (STMB) and intermittent pneumatic calf compression, as an alternative strategy for managing CLBP, improving body posture, reducing stress, and enhancing quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS Twenty-three participants aged 65-80 years completed a 4-week intervention involving eight sessions (2 per week) with the STMB device. Outcome measures included pain level assessed by the visual analog scale, trunk and pelvic tilting angles indicating spine curvature, stress level of the autonomic nervous system, Oswestry Disability Index, and EuroQol five-dimensions QoL questionnaire. RESULTS The study revealed significant reductions in pain intensity between baseline and mid-term scores (p=0.002) and between baseline and post-test scores (p=0.001). Moreover, notable improvements were observed in trunk and pelvic tilting angles (p<0.001) and stress scores between baseline and mid-term scores (p=0.037) and between baseline and post-test scores (p=0.019). However, no significant changes were observed in disability level or QoL. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the intervention, and no serious side effects were reported CONCLUSIONS This study provides compelling evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of combining STMB with intermittent pneumatic calf compression in reducing pain intensity and stress levels and improving trunk and pelvic tilting angles. Clinical trial number: KCT0008212.

Chinese Tuina remodels the synaptic structure in neuropathic pain rats by downregulating the expression of N-methyl D-aspartate receptor subtype 2B and postsynaptic density protein-95 in the spinal cord dorsal horn

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the Chinese massage system, Tuina, exerts analgesic effects in a rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI) by remodeling the synaptic structure in the spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH).

METHODS

Sixty-nine male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly and evenly divided into the normal group, sham group, CCI group, CCI + Tuina group, CCI + MK-801 [an -methyl D-aspartate receptor subtype 2B (NR2B) antagonist] group, and CCI + MK-801 + Tuina group. The neuropathic pain model was established using CCI with right sciatic nerve ligation. Tuina was administered 4 d after CCI surgery, using pressing manipulation for 10 min, once daily. Motor function was observed with the inclined plate test, and pain behaviors were observed by the Von Frey test and acetone spray test. At 19 d after surgery, the L3-L5 spinal cord segments were removed. Glutamate, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein expression levels of NR2B and postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) were detected by Western blot, and the synaptic structure was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

RESULTS

CCI reduced motor function and caused mechanical and cold allodynia in rats, increased glutamate concentration and TNF-α and IL-1β levels, and increased expression of synapse-related proteins NR2B and PSD-95 in the SCDH. TEM revealed that the synaptic structure of SCDH neurons was altered. Most of these disease-induced changes were reversed by Tuina and intrathecal injection of MK-801 ( < 0.05 or < 0.01). For the majority of experiments, no significant differences were found between the CCI + MK-801 and CCI + MK-801 + Tuina groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Chinese Tuina can alleviate pain by remodeling the synaptic structure, and NR2B and PSD-95 receptors in the SCDH may be among its targets.

Acute effects of foam roller or stick massage on indirect markers from exercise-induced muscle damage in healthy individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of foam roller or stick massage performed after exercise-induced muscle damage protocols on indirect markers of muscle damage compared to a non-intervention control group in healthy individuals.

METHODS

PubMed, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library database were searched in August 2, 2020, with last update on February 21, 2021. Were included clinical trials involving healthy adult individuals who received foam roller/stick massage versus a non-intervention group and evaluated indirect markers of muscle damage. Risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools. Standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were used to measure the foam roller/stick massage effect on muscle soreness.

RESULTS

The five included studies investigated 151 participants (136 men). Overall, the studies presented a moderate/high risk of bias. A between-groups meta-analysis showed no significant difference between massage and non-intervention control groups on muscle soreness immediately after (0.26 [95%CI: 0.14; 0.65], p = 0.20), 24 h (-0.64 [95%CI: 1.34; 0.07], p = 0.08), 48 h (-0.35 [95%CI: 0.85; 0.15], p = 0.17), 72 h (-0.40 [95%CI: 0.92; 0.12], p = 0.13), and 96 h (0.05 [95%CI: 0.40; 0.50], p = 0.82) after an exercise-induced muscle damage protocol. Moreover, the qualitative synthesis showed that foam roller or stick massage had no significant effect on range of motion, muscle swelling, and maximal voluntary isometric contraction recovery.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the current literature appears to not support the advantage of foam roller or stick massage to improve recovery of muscle damage indirect markers (muscle soreness, range of motion, muscle swelling, and maximal voluntary isometric contraction) compared to a non-intervention control group in healthy individuals. Furthermore, due to the heterogeneity of the methodological designs among the included studies, making it difficult to compare the results. In addition, there are not enough high-quality and well-designed studies on foam roller or stick massage to draw any definite conclusions.

REVIEW PROTOCOL NUMBER

The study was pre-registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) on August 2, 2020, with last update on February 21, 2021. Protocol number: CRD2017058559.

Analysis method for psychological and physiological responses to body massage "Using POMS and HRV"

This study aimed to compare and proposed an analytical method for evaluating the effectiveness of massage using various measurement parameters. The parameters were divided psychologically using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and physiologically using heart rate variability. In the experiment, the psycho-physiological effects of the rest(a) and two massage techniques (b, c) were evaluated. The effect of each massage technique on the parameters was examined, and a statistical analysis approach for evaluating massage responses is given in the conclusion.Clinical Relevance- This case study compares and contrasts the differences and advantages of each statistical approach for analyzing on studying the effects of massage and presents the response results for two massage techniques.

A comparison of the effects of connective tissue massage and classical massage on chronic mechanical low back pain

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to compare the effects of connective tissue massage (CTM) and classical massage (CM) in patients with chronic mechanical low back pain on pain and autonomic responses and to determine the most effective manual therapy method.

METHODS

Seventy individuals with chronic mechanical low back pain were randomly divided into CTM (n = 35) and CM (n = 35) groups. The participants were given a 4-week treatment protocol consisting of a hot pack, exercise, and CTM or CM for 20 sessions. A visual analog scale was used to measure pain intensity. Heart rate, blood pressure, and skin temperature were measured for the evaluation of autonomic responses. In addition, disability (Oswestry disability index), quality of life (short form 36), and sleep quality (Pittsburgh sleep quality index) were evaluated. Participants were assessed before and after the 4-week treatment period as well as at the end of the 6-week follow-up period. In addition, visual analog index measurements were repeated at the end of each treatment week.

RESULTS

Pain intensity was decreased in both groups (P < .05). However, CM was more effective than CTM at the end of the 2nd week (P < .05). In autonomic responses results, there were increases in peripheral skin temperatures in both groups (P < .05). Disability, quality of life, and sleep quality improved in both groups (P < .05). There were no differences between the groups relating to autonomic responses, disability, quality of life, and sleep quality (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that massages were similar effect. The fact that CM is a frequently used technique in pain management and is as effective as CTM in autonomic responses will make it more preferred in the clinic.

Effect of Reflexology on Decreasing Postoperative Pain and Anxiety After Total Abdominal Hysterectomy

Surgical patients experience both postoperative pain and anxiety, as they try to cope with pain. Despite technological advances, pharmacological methods are inadequate for decreasing postoperative pain and anxiety. Reflexology has been implemented and considered effective in these areas in many countries. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of reflexology on decreasing postoperative pain and anxiety after a hysterectomy. The study was an intervention randomized study. The population of the investigation is all patients who had a hysterectomy between February 2012 and December 2014 in the Istanbul University Obstetrics and Gynecology service. The sample was 100 women chosen after a power analysis (minimum: 74) (experimental: 54, control: 46) within the population of the investigation who agreed to participate in the study. Using a table of random numbers, patients in the sample were divided into groups. Data was collected using the patient information and vital signs form, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Pain and Anxiety Scales, and BRIEF pain inventory. All women in the groups had similar sociodemographic, obstetric, and pain characteristics, past experience of illness, and characteristics related to their hysterectomy. All of the patients in the reflexology group stated that reflexology helped them feel better. The reflexology group compared with the control group had lower than the average VAS pain and VAS and STAI anxiety at all assessment times. Reflexology is effective in reducing anxiety and pain.

Perineal Massage during Pregnancy for the Prevention of Postpartum Urinary Incontinence: Controlled Clinical Trial

Background and objectives: Urinary incontinence is any involuntary loss of urine. It may result in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social isolation. Perineal massage has spread as a prophylactic technique for treating complications during labor. Acknowledged effects of perineal massage are reduction of incidence and severity of perineal tear and use of equipment directly related to the intrapartum perineal trauma. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of massage in urinary incontinence prevention and identification of possible differences in its form of application (self-massage or by a physiotherapist), with the previous assumption that it is effective and that there are differences between the different forms of application. Materials and Methods: A controlled clinical trial with a sample of 81 pregnant women was conducted. The participants were divided into three groups: a group that received the massage applied by a specialized physiotherapist, another group that applied the massage to themselves, and a control group that only received ordinary obstetric care. Results: No differences were identified in the incidence or severity of urinary incontinence among the three groups. The severity of the incontinence was only affected by the body mass index and the weight of the baby at the time of delivery. Conclusions: A relationship between perineal massage interventions and development of urinary incontinence has not been observed.

A systematic review of Tuina for cervical hypertension: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cervical hypertension is a secondary form of hypertension with a high incidence rate. As the main etiology of cervical hypertension is related to cervical spondylosis, commonly used antihypertensive drugs have poor efficacy in the treatment of cervical spondylosis, and improving the symptoms of cervical spondylosis can effectively reduce blood pressure. Massage can effectively improve the symptoms of patients with cervical hypertension, but there has been no systematic review of massage treatment for cervical hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of massage in patients with cervical hypertension.

METHODS

Before February 10, 2022, a systematic literature search was conducted using the following databases: Embase, SinoMed (previously called the Chinese Biomedical Database), China Science and Technology Journal Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data. Review Manager software (version 5.3) will be used for statistical analysis. Quality and risk assessments of the included studies were performed, and the outcome indicators of the trials were observed.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis further confirmed the beneficial effects of massage in patients with cervical hypertension.

CONCLUSION

This study investigated the efficacy and safety of massage therapy in patients with cervical hypertension, providing clinicians and patients with additional options for the treatment of this disease.

Effect of Foot and Hand Massage on Abdominal Pain of Cesarean Section Incision under Ultrasound Guidance

In order to relieve the pain of incision after cesarean section, a method of foot and hand massage for abdominal pain of cesarean section incision under ultrasound guidance was proposed in this paper. In this paper, the experimental control method and retrospective analysis were used to relax the patients through massage, so that the pregnant women could focus on the reaction caused by hand and foot massage, distract their attention, and reduce the pain. The results showed that 60 cases of puerpera after cesarean section were divided into two groups with 30 cases in each group. The control group was only given routine care. The intervention group received 20 min hand and foot massage on the basis of routine care. The visual analog scale (VAS) of pain before, immediately after, 30 min after, and 60 min after massage in the intervention group was evaluated and recorded, and the VAS scores of the control group at the corresponding time points were recorded. The VAS score of the intervention group at each time point after massage was significantly lower than that before massage (P < 0.05), and the VAS score of the intervention group at each time point was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.01). Hand and foot massage can effectively relieve incision pain after cesarean section.

Effectiveness and safety of aromatherapy massage for knee osteoarthritis: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of aromatherapy massage in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

METHODS

To collect relevant literature, we will research following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database and Wanfang Data the time is from inception to December 30, 2021, and the language is limited to Chinese and English. In addition, we will retrieve other literature resources, including the Chinese Clinical Trial Register, conference papers. Two reviewers will independently complete the literature screen and data extraction, and quality assessment of the included studies will be independently completed by 2 other researchers. The primary outcomes included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index scale, the visual analog scale, symptom score, Lysholm knee scoring scale, adverse events, and adverse reactions as secondary outcomes would be assessed. RevMan V.5.4.1 software will be used for meta-analysis, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) will be used to assess the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

This systematic review will be showed a high-quality synthesis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aromatherapy massage in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, providing reference for the safe and effective treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of whether aromatherapy massage is effective.Systematic review registration: INPLASY202210010URL: https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-1-0010/.

Clinical observation of Long chiropractic treatment on patients with neurogenic cervical spondylosis: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Neurogenic cervical spondylosis is the most common type of cervical spondylosis, accounting for approximately 60% percent of the incidence of cervical spondylosis. Cervical spine Long manipulation and sling exercise training (SET) have obtained good therapeutic results in clinical rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Long manipulation combined with SET on neurogenic cervical spondylosis. In this assessor-blind, randomized controlled trial, 90 eligible patients will be randomized into a combination treatment group (Long manipulation combined with SET), a Long manipulation group and a conventional massage group. The visual analogue score, the Neck Disability Index score, and muscle fatigue in the bilateral upper oblique and Musculus sternocleidomastoideus, using mean power frequency and median frequency from the surface electromyography frequency domain index, will be assessed before and after the intervention at 0 and 4 weeks, respectively.Trial registration: Registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registration Center with the number ChiCTR2100054978. Registered December 30, 2021.

Visual Sensor Image Analysis and Massage Techniques to Prevent and Treat Common Injuries of Sports Dance Practitioners

In recent years, the performance of sports dance in China has become better and better. Naturally, the technical requirements for this dance are getting higher and higher, and the number and intensity of training have also increased, which has led to increasing injuries in sports dance. This article is based on visual sensor images to analyze and study the common injuries and prevention of sports dance practitioners. It is aimed at providing a certain reference basis for athletes' injuries, so that dance practitioners and coaches can better master sports dance training and teaching. Injury-related rules and prevention reduce the injury rate. This article puts forward the related technology of a visual sensor image and applies its technology to the prevention and research of common injuries in sports dance. At the same time, it analyzes the causes of sports dance practitioners' injuries and seeks economical and affordable massage techniques for prevention, and the method of treatment provides protection for dance practitioners. The experimental results in this article show that the Tuina group cured 15 subjects, 41 subjects were markedly effective, 13 subjects were improved, and 6 subjects were unhealed. The total effective rate was 92%.

Community intervention study of viscera massage in overweight/obese type 2 diabetes high-risk population

BACKGROUND

Prediabetes is an intermediate metabolic state between normoglycemia and diabetes. Without intervention, prediabetes often progresses to diabetes and prediabetes is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, renal disease, and dementia. Lifestyle modification play a major role in controlling prediabetes. But lifestyle interventions are often with poor compliance and side effects of drugs are often be dislike by people. As a non-invasive therapy with no side effects, abdominal massage (AM), also called viscera massage in China, has been used to treat prediabetes and obesity-associated diseases. The gut microbiota has been recognized as an important factor in the development of metabolic diseases. Individuals with prediabetes have aberrant intestinal microbiota character. Colonic transport time and stool consistency are strongly associated with gut microbiota. Viscera massage can ease constipation by reducing colonic transport time and promoting intestinal motility. We can infer that viscera massage can modulate composition of gut microbiota affects human metabolism. So, in this trial, we will explore the mechanism of viscera massage on prediabetes from the perspective of intestinal microbiota.

METHODS AND DESIGN

Eighty prediabetes individuals will be recruited for this study. Eighty prediabetes individuals will be divided into lifestyle intervention group and viscera massage + lifestyle intervention group by a simple random method. Each group will have 40 individuals. The manipulation of the viscera massage + lifestyle intervention group will be mainly carried out through rubbing the abdomen, kneading abdomen, vibrating abdomen, and pressing the abdomen, 30 minutes per time, once a day, with 2 days off every 5 days. Lifestyle interventions will be performed by combining pushing healthy lifestyle guidance information through Wechat application and giving face-to-face advice together daily. The lifestyle intervention group will receive healthy lifestyle intervention only. All the intervention will be conducted for 4 weeks. Weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio will be measured at the last day of every week. Triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting blood-glucose, 2-hour post-meal blood glucose (2hPG) and glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting insulin and insulin resistance index will be tested at the first day and last day of the intervention course. The fecal samples of subjects will be gathered at the first day and last day of the intervention course and will be performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomic detection. Finally, the effect and potential mechanism of viscera massage on prediabetes will be discussed in combination with all the results.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study will be used to verify the effect of AM on prediabetes and explore the mechanism of AM on prediabetes from the perspective of gut microbiota.

Chinese massage (Tuina) combline with paraffin therapy versus tuina or paraffin therapy alone for the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis: A protocol for systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Current studies in patients with congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) have predominantly focused on the role of tuina or paraffin therapy alone. This systematic review with Bayesian network meta-analysis will be performed to sum up the existing evidence on the effects and safety of tuina plus paraffin therapy for CMT in infants and children.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes reporting guidelines will be followed to conduct this study. The electronic databases of PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, EMBASE, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Data, Taiwan Electronic Periodical Services, and Web of Science will be searched from the inception to November 2021 using the following key terms: "Tuina," "traditional Chinese medicine massage," "paraffin," and "congenital muscular torticollis," for all relevant studies. We impose no language restrictions. We include reports on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of Tuina combline with paraffin therapy for the treatment of CMT in children and adolescents. We include studies that assessed effective rate, symmetry, improvements of range of motion, muscle length, and sternocleidomastoid tumor thickness, quality of life, and adverse events. The Cochrane Bias Risk Tool, which considers sequence generation, allocation concealment, and blinding and other aspects of bias, will be used to assess the risk of bias in studies.

RESULTS

A Bayesian network meta-analysis is an appropriate statistical method to compare all treatment options by statistically simulating the estimated results of a comprehensive trial, and to compare treatments by common and associated comparators. In addition, Bayesian network meta-analysis can produce ranking probabilities of treatments, which may contribute to clinicians' clinical decision-making.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

10.17605/OSF.IO/K5EGN.

Effectiveness and safety of massage for athletic injuries: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Athletic injuries have been a major area of interest in the field of sports and clinical medicine. Implemented on people's skin, muscles, and joints as an important part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), massage therapy has a positive effect on athletic injuries. This protocol is to provide the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy for patients with athletic injuries.

METHODS

A systematic search will be performed in the following electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy in treating athletic injuries: PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE and four Chinese databases (CNKI, Wan Fang, CBMdisc and VIP). Each database will be searched from inception to July 2021. The entire process will include study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment and meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A high-quality synthesis of current evidence of massage therapy for patients with athletic injuries will be provided.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review will provide evidence for assessing the credibility of massage therapy for patients with athletic injuries.

DISSEMINATION AND ETHICS

The results of this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication. This review does not require ethical approval because all the data used in this systematic review and meta-analysis have already been published. Furthermore, all of these data will be analyzed anonymously during the review process.

INPLASY REGISTRATION NUMBER

INPLASY202170066.

Comparison of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training With Connective Tissue Massage to Pelvic Floor Muscle Training Alone in Women With Overactive Bladder: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a 6-week program of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) plus connective tissue massage (CTM) to PFMT alone in women with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms on those symptoms, pelvic floor muscle strength, and quality of life.

METHODS

Thirty-four participants were randomly divided into PFMT+CTM (n = 17) and PFMT (n = 17) groups. PFMT was applied every day and CTM was applied 3 days a week for 6 weeks. Before treatment, at week 3, and after treatment (week 6), we assessed pelvic floor muscle strength (with a perineometer), bladder symptoms (with a urine diary), OAB symptom severity (with the 8-item Overactive Bladder Questionnaire [OAB-V8]), urgency (with the Patient Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale [PPIUS]), and quality of life (with King's Health Questionnaire [KHQ]). The Mann-Whitney U test, χ² test, Friedman test, and Dunn multiple comparison test were used for analysis.

RESULTS

In both groups, pelvic floor muscle strength increased, whereas OAB symptoms and PPIUS and KHQ scores decreased after treatment (P < .05). Although the OAB-V8, PPIUS, and KHQ scores decreased at week 3, frequency, OAB-V8, and PPIUS scores, in addition to some parameters of the KHQ, decreased after treatment in the PFMT+CTM group compared to the PFMT group (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Compared to PFMT alone, PFMT+CTM achieved superior outcomes in reducing OAB symptoms in the early and late periods.

Passive Recovery Strategies after Exercise: A Narrative Literature Review of the Current Evidence

ABSTRACT

Passive recovery techniques are popular and offer a diverse spectrum of options for athletes and the clinicians providing care for them. These techniques are intended to minimize the negative effects of training or competition, thus enabling the athlete a quicker return to peak performance. Current evidence demonstrates improved athlete recovery with compression garments, cold water immersion, partial body cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and vibratory therapies. Other popular modalities, such as compression devices, whole body cryotherapy, percussive gun-assisted therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and pulsed electromagnetic therapy lack convincing evidence concerning athlete recovery. This article seeks to review the current literature and offer the reader an updated understanding of the mechanisms for each modality and the evidence regarding each modality's potential benefit in an athlete's recovery strategy.

Effect of Massage With Lavender Oil on Postoperative Pain Level of Patients Who Underwent Gynecologic Surgery: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

This was a randomized, placebo-controlled study. The sample consisted of 3 groups of patients: an experimental group, massage application with lavender oil (n = 15); a placebo group, massage application with ultrasound gel (n = 15); and a control group (n = 15). Massage application was performed 3 hours after analgesic application. Pain levels of the patients in the experiment and placebo groups were evaluated with a Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) at the 30th minute and the 3rd hour after the application. Similarly, the pain level of patients in the control group was also evaluated with the VRS at 3 hours after the initial analgesic administration and following the 30th minute and the 3rd hour. Generally, the VRS scores of the 3 groups did not show a significant difference in terms of group and time interaction (P = .221). However, there was a significant difference in VRS scores between the experimental and control groups at the 30th minute after the massage (P = .036). This difference was caused by the lower pain level of the group, which had massage with lavender (2.66 ± .89) compared with the control group (3.80 ± 1.01). According to the study results, while only hand massage application after gynecologic surgery was effective for a short period in decreasing postoperative pain, it was determined that massage application with lavender had a longer effect in decreasing postoperative pain. The results of this study showed that this inexpensive and easy-to-apply method can be safely performed by nurses on postoperative patients and can support pain management of patients in the first hours after gynecologic surgery.

Assessment of the efficacy of tuina on treating cervicogenic headache: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache characterized by unilateral headache, symptoms, and signs of neck involvement. It is often worsened by neck movement, sustained awkward head position, or external pressure over the upper cervical or occipital region on the symptomatic side. In this systematic review, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of massage therapy for the treatment of cervicogenic headache.

METHODS

We searched the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Scientific Journal Database, Wanfang Database, China Doctoral Dissertations Full-Text Database, China Master's Theses Full-Text Database, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and Embase. We will select all eligible studies published on or before April 1, 2021. We will use Review Manager 5.4, provided by the Cochrane Collaborative Network for statistical analysis. We then assessed the quality and risk of the included studies and observed the outcome measures.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis further confirmed the benefits of tuina in the treatment of cervicogenic headache.

CONCLUSION

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the effect of tuina on patients with cervicogenic headache and to provide more options for clinicians and patients to treat cervicogenic headache.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This systematic review will evaluate the efficacy and safety of tuina in the treatment of cervicogenic headache. Since all the data included were published, the systematic review did not require ethical approval.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

INPLASY202150053.

Efficacy and safety of massage therapy for autism spectrum disorders: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder with increasing incidence. At present, the global incidence of the disease is on the rise, and the cause is unknown. There is no specific treatment for this disease at present, mainly education and training. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment has a certain effect on the improvement of the symptoms of the disease. The treatment methods are mainly oral Chinese medicine and acupuncture, but children are often not easy to cooperate. As a safe and effective green therapy, massage is easy to be accepted by children.

METHODS

We will search the following electronic databases for randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy in treating autism spectrum disorders: Wanfang and PubMed Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Excerpta Medica database. Each database will be searched from inception to March 2021. The entire process will include study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and meta-analyses.

RESULTS

This proposed study will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy for patients with autism spectrum disorders. The outcomes will include changes in autism spectrum disorder relief and adverse effect.

CONCLUSION

This proposed systematic review will evaluate the existing evidence on the effectiveness and safety of massage therapy for patients with autism spectrum disorders.

DISSEMINATION AND ETHICS

The results of this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication. Because all of the data used in this systematic review and meta-analysis have been published, this review does not require ethical approval. Furthermore, all data will be analyzed anonymously during the review process.

Effects of acupoint massage combined with relaxation therapy on patients with postoperative fatigue syndrome after lumbar surgery

BACKGROUND

: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common disease in orthopedics. Surgery is shown to provide significant faster relief of pain compared to conservative therapy. However, due to the influence of surgical trauma, anesthesia and other perioperative stress factors, patients may have complications. Among them, postoperative fatigue syndrome (POFS) is a common complication. Traditional Chinese medicine or integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine have been proved to be effective in improving postoperative fatigue.

METHODS

: This study is a randomized controlled trial. One hundred eighty Chinese patients with POFS of LDH will be randomly divided into control group, experimental group 1, experimental group 2 and experimental group 3 according to the ratio of 1:1:1:1. The patients in the control group will be treated with conventional treatment after operation, the patients in the experimental group 1 will be treated with acupoint massage, the patients in the experimental group 2 will be treated with relaxation therapy, and the patients in the experimental group 3 will be treated with acupoint massage combined with relaxation therapy. The whole treatment will last for 5 days. The main outcome measures will be fatigue visual analogue scale and identity-consequence fatigue scale, and the secondary outcome measures will be hospital anxiety and depression scale.

DISCUSSION

: This study is to observe the effects of acupoint massage comblined with relaxation therapy on reducing postoperative fatigue of lumbar disc herniation surgical patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=123978&htm=4), No. ChiCTR2100044788. Registered on March 27, 2021.