Understanding Therapeutic Massage Practices
Author Information
Author(s): Porcino Antony J, Boon Heather S, Page Stacey A, Verhoef Marja J
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
How does variability in training affect the clinical practice of therapeutic massage and bodywork practitioners?
Conclusion
Therapeutic massage practitioners have highly variable training and practice methods, leading to individualized patient care.
Supporting Evidence
- Practitioners reported being trained in a median of 8 therapies.
- Seventy-seven distinct TMB therapies were identified among practitioners.
- Most practitioners (94.4%) were trained in more than one therapy.
Takeaway
Massage therapists learn different techniques and often mix them up to help their patients feel better, making each treatment unique.
Methodology
The study used a combined methods approach, including a quantitative survey and qualitative interviews with practitioners.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of the number of therapies trained in by practitioners.
Limitations
The study had a low response rate, which may affect the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The majority of practitioners were female (91.7%) and worked in private or home clinics.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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