Process for massage therapy practice and essential assessment

Abstract

The goal of providing these models is to give massage therapists tools to deliver the best possible care. The models need testing to see if they help advance the profession.

Treating individuals with amputations in therapeutic massage and bodywork practice: A qualitative study

“…(26)(27)(28)(29) This work makes an important contribution to this literature and reinforces the individuality of TMB sessions per treatment recipient and instance (28) and the multidimensional aspects of therapeutic intention and benefit. (27) Data generated from this study is not novel in the context of TMB practices in general.…”

A randomised crossover trial comparing Thai and Swedish massage for fatigue and depleted energy

“…The results of both TM and SM showed improvement in sleep, relaxing and destressing and relief of muscle aches and pains, with SM being more effective than TM for relaxation and stress. This has been noted in findings of other research into massage therapy (MT) -'Massage therapy consists of the application of massage and non-hands-on components, including health promotion and education messages, for self-care and health maintenance' (Kennedy et al, 2016). Smith et al (1999), in their study on MT for hospitalised patients, cite improved quality of life results of over 90% for relaxation and sense of wellbeing, along with positive results for reduce muscle tension, psychological support and enhanced sleep.…”

Clarifying Definitions for the Massage Therapy Profession: the Results of the Best Practices Symposium†

“…Examining massage therapy practice as a process is beyond the scope of this manuscript and is addressed in a separate manuscript. (32) However, the participants indicated important contextual factors that may impact the way massage therapy is practiced, which are addressed here. The Bronfenbrenner ecological framework assists in understanding the multiple layers of contextual factors, which appear impact massage therapy practice.…”

“…When specific feedback given, it was generally related to the conceptual models in the types and directions of lines; this was more evident for the models presented in the second manuscript focusing on a framework for massage therapy. (32) Feedback was incorporated into the models where needed. Additionally, one participant stated that they hoped that these results would help to "create a bridge between practice and research."…”