No matter what stage of life, massage therapy has benefits. If anyone doubts that, the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) recently shared the latest research to support the claim.[1] The research indicates that across all ages, from infancy through end of life, massage therapy can be a therapeutic approach to enhancing physical and emotional well-being. That news should be welcome to clients and prospects and help you in your marketing outreach.
Here is what the organization found:
Mother-Performed Infant Massage
A 2023 study explored how mother-performed infant massage (MPIM) impacted infantile eczema, quality of life and growth. Because of their fragile skin barrier, infants are prone to eczema. The condition affects an estimated 15 to 20 percent of children under two.
The research study divided 66 full-term infants with eczema into a control group and an eczema with MPIM group, alongside a healthy full-term control group. Data was collected over 2- and 5-month intervals. The findings indicated significantly lower eczema severity, eczema remission and reduced relapse, as well as improved quality of life, in the group that received massage.
Massage Therapy Reduces Low Back Pain: Common in Middle Age
Among adults aged 45-65, 44 percent experience back pain, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. A recent study compared the effects of connective tissue massage and classical massage on chronic mechanical low back pain. Under the study, 70 patients were randomly assigned to either a connective tissue massage group or a classical massage group, receiving a 4-week treatment regimen of hot packs, exercises, and massage therapy sessions.
Before and after the treatment and in a six-week follow up, the study evaluated pain intensity, autonomic responses (heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature), disability, quality of life and sleep quality. The study found both massage types significantly reduced pain and improved disability, quality of life, and sleep quality, with classical massage showing a more pronounced pain reduction by the second week.
Massage Therapy for Palliative Care Patients
Healthcare providers recommend massage therapy for palliative care patients, according to a nationwide survey. Those surveyed included physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners in palliative care. The survey found that massage therapy was the third most recommended integrative care modality behind mind-body interventions like meditation and biofeedback. The integrative therapies aimed to reduce pain, anxiety, mood disturbances, and distress.
The value of massage at different stages of life should be a key part of your marketing messages as you seek new clients and strive to keep current ones long-term, whether young or old. Massage for improved quality of life and reduced pain along with a reduction in stress and anxiety means it should “be on the table” as part of someone’s mental and physical well-being.
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[1] Press Release: “The Latest Research Indicates Massage Therapy has Benefits from Birth to End of Life,” American Therapy Association, June 5, 2024. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/latest-research-indicates-massage-therapy-145400918.html