Massager Research

What Does Research Show about Massage? Massage research conducted by the Touch Research Institute (TRI), which is associated with the University of Miami School of Medicine, has resulted in more than 50 published studies. TRI continues to research all facets of massage.

Here are a few adult massage research study results:

Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia: Massage recipients showed improved sleep patterns, decreased pain and depression, and reduced levels of anxiety and cortisol stress hormones.

Migraine Headaches: Massage therapy decreased the occurrence of headaches, sleep disturbances, and distress symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis: Massage therapy decreased anxiety and depression, and improved self-esteem, body image, and social functioning.

HIV Positive Adults: Massage therapy significantly reduced anxiety, stress, and cortisol levels. Natural killer cells and natural killer cell activity increased, suggesting positive effects on the immune system.

Premenstrual Symptoms: Massage improved mood, lessened anxiety, and decreased pain and water retention symptoms.

Pregnancy: Massage during pregnancy resulted in decreased anxiety and stress hormones and fewer obstetric and postnatal complications, including lower prematurity rates.

Job Performance/Stress: Massaged subjects showed decreased EEG alpha and beta waves and increased delta activity consistent with enhanced alertness. They also completed math problems in about half the time with approximately 50% fewer errors after the massage. Their anxiety and job stress levels were lower at the end of the one-month massage period.

It’s important to remember that you don’t get these results from one massage. Consistent, regular massage is necessary.

Note: It is always important to discuss any medical condition with your massage therapist. Occasionally, massage is not recommended for certain medical conditions.