Randomized clinical trial assessing whether additional massage treatments for chronic neck pain improve 12- and 26-week outcomes.

ABSTRACT:

Background context

This is the first study to systematically evaluate the value of a longer treatment period for massage. We provide a framework of how to conceptualize an optimal dose in this challenging setting of nonpharmacologic treatments.

Purpose

The aim was to determine the optimal dose of massage for neck pain.

Study design/setting

Two-phase randomized trial for persons with chronic nonspecific neck pain. Primary randomization to one of five groups receiving 4 weeks of massage (30 minutes 2x/or 3x/wk or 60 minutes 1x, 2x, or 3x/wk). Booster randomization of participants to receive an additional six massages, 60 minutes 1x/wk, or no additional massage.

Patient sample

A total of 179 participants from Group Health and the general population of Seattle, WA,

SUBMITTER: Cook AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4596391 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature