Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Abdominal massage, abdominal meridian massage, acupressure, acupuncture massage, Alexander technique, anthroposophic therapies, aromatherapy massage, Aston patterning, augmented soft-tissue mobilization, automated massage chair, beat massage, Bindegewebsmassage, body therapies, cardiac massage, carotid sinus massage, chair massage, Cignolini methodology, classical massage, craniosacral, deep-tissue massage, deep transverse friction massage, digital massage, effleurage massage, esalen massage, Feldenkrais technique, Flexitouch, foot reflexion massage, friction, generic massage, hand massage, Hellerwork, Hippocratic pelvic massage, hot stone massage, ice massage, infant massage, jin shin do, Lomi lomi, manual lymph drainage, Marma massage therapy, myofascial release, myotherapy, naprapathic manual therapy, neuromuscular massage, oil massage, on-site chair massage, on-site massage, perineal massage, petrissage, physical therapy, physiotherapy, polarity treatment, prostatic massage, qi gong massage, reflex zone massage, reflexology, Reiki, Rolfing®, roll-stretch massage, Rosen method, rhythmical massage, shiatsu, skin rehabilitation massage therapy, sports massage, St. John's neuromuscular technique, strain-counterstrain techniques, sunflower therapy, Swedish massage, tapotement, Thai massage, therapeutic massage, Tibetan massage, touch, Trager technique, TriActive laser, trigger point massage, tuina, vibration, Zone therapy.
• Note: In this monograph, unless otherwise noted, the term "massage" refers to Swedish massage, which is the most commonly practiced massage in Western countries and the subject of the majority of massage research.
• Not included in this review: For varieties of massage other than Swedish massage (e.g., manual lymph drainage, reflexology) see the individual Natural Standardmonographs on other varieties of massage and bodywork.

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Massage is a broad term encompassing a variety of approaches to the manipulation of soft tissue to achieve health benefits. Massage techniques have been practiced for thousands of years in many cultures. Practitioners primarily use their hands but may also use their forearms, elbows, or even their feet in some methods. Lubricants are often added to reduce friction and discomfort during the application of massage techniques.
• Swedish massage is the most commonly practiced form of massage and is the core of most professional training programs. Sessions are typically 5-90 minutes long. Practitioner licensing and certification is generally based on training in this approach. Techniques include superficial stroking in a direction away from the heart or deep stroking towards the heart, kneading in a circular pattern with fingers and thumbs, deep muscle stimulation, vibration, and rhythmic movements. Other types of massage, such as sports massage, Esalen massage, and neuromuscular massage, are adaptations of the core Swedish massage methodology. Another variation, aromatherapy massage, involves the application of essential oils during massage. Providing a relaxing environment is considered to be an important element of massage technique.
• Traditionally, the aims of massage therapy are to induce relaxation, relieve stress, improve the circulation of blood and lymph, reduce pain, and increase flexibility and general well-being.
• Massage is increasingly combined with other modalities in the development of integrative treatment programs for chronic or degenerative illnesses, e.g., cancer, HIV/AIDS, hypertension, and fibromyalgia (1;​2;​3;​4), as well as others. Massage is also increasingly used as an intervention for quality of life in palliative and end-of-life care, as well as in a variety of pediatric applications (premature infants and disease recovery) (5). Patients seeking a massage therapist for medical reasons should discuss the choice of massage practitioner with their primary health care provider.
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Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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