Sleep Disorders
Sleep Disorders
Clinical Study: Lower back pain and sleep disturbances are reduced by massage therapy.
Research:
This study compared massage therapy with relaxation therapy in patients with chronic lower back pain. Among other things, the study evaluated reductions in pain, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances; improvements in trunk range of motion (ROM); and potential effects on absenteeism and productivity.
A total of 30 adults who had been suffering from back pain for at least six months participated in the study. On the first and last days of the five-week study, the participants completed questionnaires and underwent assessments of their range of motion.
Results:
At the end of the study, the massage therapy group showed the following compared to the relaxation group:
- Significantly less pain
- Lower scores for depression and anxiety
- Fewer Sleep Disorders
- Improved trunk mobility and flexion
Read the full study
Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Diego, M., & Fraser, M. (2007). Lower back pain and sleep disturbance are reduced following massage therapy. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapy, 11, 141-145.
