Research
As part of our dedication to efficacy, we stay up to date on peer-reviewed studies for holistic health practices.
We also support the advancement of these practices by empowering our members to conduct their own research using established methodology to add to the knowledge within the therapies they practise.
We summarised benefits of some of the most-practised NHPC modalities: massage therapy, reflexology, and reiki, as found in existing holistic health research. Additional studies that we reviewed are listed below.
We continue to monitor and encourage new research on the practices we recognize.
Acupressure
Effects of auricular acupressure on depression in stroke patients: A single-blind randomized controlled trial
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (August 2022)
Conclusion: AurPrs could help to reduce depression levels and improve the quality of life in patients with PSD.
The effect of auricular acupressure on short-term postoperative pain intensity after cesarean section: A three-arm randomized controlled trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (January 2023)
Conclusion: Auricular acupressure might be an effective adjuvant complementary treatment for post-operative cesarean pain in controlling pain and reducing the need for analgesics with no adverse effect.
The Effect of Acupressure on Anxiety and Pain Among Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography
Holistic Nursing Practice (November 2022)
Conclusion: Acupressure is an effective technique for reducing the pain severity and anxiety among patients undergoing coronary angiography.
The Effect of Acupressure on Sleep Quality of Older People in Australian Residential Aged Care Facilities
Holistic Nursing Practice (July 2022)
Conclusion: Acupressure improved overall subjective sleep quality and anxiety but no differences in depression and quality of life. Future studies with larger sample sizes are required to generate good evidence.
Combination treatment of acupoint therapy and conventional medication for motor function of Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2023)
Conclusions: Acupoint therapy and CM treatment may improve motor function of patients with PD. Patients with H–Y stage >3 could tolerate real acupoint intervention with mild to moderate stimulation for 4−12-week treatment and showed improvement. However, this was demonstrated with low to moderate levels of evidence in statistical description.
Auricular Acupressure for Improving Sleep Quality in Patients With Lung Cancer
Holistic Nursing Practice (July 2022)
Conclusion: Our review suggests that auricular acupressure is effective and relatively safe in improving sleep quality among patients with lung cancer.
Effects of Acupressure on Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (January 2022)
Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggests that acupressure can alleviate anxiety. Acupressure was more effective for inpatients and preoperative patients when finger massage was applied. In individuals with anxiety and a stable hemodynamic status, acupressure could be a promising treatment option. However, the substantial heterogeneity across studies means that any inference from the results should be performed cautiously.
The effect of acupressure on sleep quality of older people: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Explore (November 2022)
Conclusions: We have utilized meta-analysis to try to reveal statistical significance by pooling small studies with high quality. This meta-analysis provided a potentially effective intervention on the quality of sleep in elderly people.
Auricular Acupressure for Dry Eye Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Medicina (January 2023)
Conclusions: Auricular acupressure, as a sole intervention or in combination with artificial tears, may have a beneficial effect on dry eye disease. However, more high-quality randomized controlled trials need to be included in the future to further prove the positive effects of auricular acupressure on patients with dry eye disease.
Acupressure can reduce preoperative anxiety in adults with elective surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
International Journal of Nursing Studies (May 2023)
Conclusion: Acupressure appears efficacious as a therapy for improving preoperative anxiety and physiological parameters amongst adults with elective surgery. Self-administered acupressure, which is effective with a large effect, may be considered as an evidence-based approach to managing preoperative anxiety. Hence, this review aids in the development of acupressure in different types of elective surgeries and the improvement of the rigour of acupressure therapy.
Impacts of acupressure treatment on depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
World Journal of Psychiatry (January 2022)
Conclusion: The evidence of acupressure for mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms was significant. Importantly, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to study limitations. Future research with a well-designed mixed method is required to consolidate the conclusion and provide an in-depth understanding of potential mechanisms underlying the effects.
Self-administered acupressure and exercise for patients with osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial
Clinical Rehabilitation (March 2022)
Conclusion: Self-administrated exercise and acupressure alleviate the arthritic symptoms (swelling, pain, joint dysfunction and joint deformities) and improve the joint functions, supporting its potential use in the clinical management for osteoarthritis.
Acupressure for Cancer-Related Fatigue in Elderly Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study
Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine (May 2023)
Conclusion: Acupressure can be recommended as an integrative treatment for cancer-related fatigue because it is effective, easy to use, tolerable and does not cause serious side effects.
Effect of localized acupressure massage on anxiety during chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer: A single-blind randomized clinical trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (January 2023)
Conclusion: Due to the simplicity and low cost of massage, it is recommended that this method be adopted to reduce patients' anxiety along with other treatments.
Alexander Technique
Self-Care for Family Carers: Can the Alexander Technique help?
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: Family carers of people with dementia who took part in an Alexander Technique session recognised the approach’s value. The Alexander Technique’s everyday applicability could enable carers to see self-care as possible. Carers valued the use of reassuring and undemanding touch because they missed physical intimacy and touch. Research should investigate the optimum number of sessions for any future Alexander Technique carers’ intervention. It may be of value to explore teaching carers and care recipient dyads together.
The effect of the Alexander Technique on pain intensity in patients with chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (January 2022)
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the Alexander Technique was effective in reducing the intensity of pain among the participants. We recommend the Alexander Technique as a useful and effective intervention for reducing chronic lower back pain.
Aromatherapy
Effects of inhalation aromatherapy as a complementary therapy in pediatric patients in the clinical practice: A systematic review
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: The findings are still inconclusive, and more evidence is required from future studies with high methodological quality, blinding, and adequate sample sizes.
The effect of aromatherapy with peppermint essential oil on anxiety of cardiac patients in emergency department: A placebo-controlled study
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: Peppermint essential oil inhalation significantly reduces anxiety of patients with acute coronary syndrome in emergency department.
Effect of Aromatherapy Massage on Depression and Anxiety of Elderly Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (March 2022)
Conclusion: Aromatherapy massage with lavender, chamomile, and rosemary oils is effective in significantly reducing anxiety and depression of elderly adults living in the nursing homes.
Aromatherapy and foot massage on happiness, sleep quality, and fatigue levels in patients with stroke: A randomized controlled trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (September 2022)
Conclusion: This study suggests that foot massage + aromatherapy and foot massage procedures may improve sleep quality and happiness levels in stroke patients and reduce their level of fatigue.
Role of Aromatherapy as a Natural Complementary and Alternative Therapy in Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (May 2022)
Conclusion: This study systematically reviewed the effects of aromatherapy in patients with cardiovascular diseases. The review of studies showed that lavender, Damask rose, and peppermint are the most frequents plants used for aromatherapy, whereas they significantly improved some illnesses and conditions, especially anxiety and sleep quality. Therefore, it can be concluded that cardiologist can used aromatherapy as a natural complementary and alternative therapy particularly with lavender, Damask rose, and peppermint to improve quality of life and some conditions such as anxiety and sleep quality.
Effectiveness of aromatherapy for intrapartum and postpartum emotional problems among parturient women: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Japan Journal of Nursing Medicine (July 2022)
Conclusion: Our study found some evidence supporting the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing intrapartum anxiety and postpartum emotional symptoms. We recommend the optional use of aromatherapy for intrapartum and postpartum care.
The Effect of Bergamot Essential Oil Aromatherapy on Improving Depressive Mood and Sleep Quality in Postpartum Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Nursing Research (April 2022)
Conclusions: The results of this study support the effectiveness of bergamot essential oil aromatherapy in alleviating depressive mood in postpartum women. In addition, the results provide a practical reference for clinical postpartum nursing care.
Benefit of inhalation aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety in a clinical setting - A systematic review
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (April 2023)
Conclusion: Inhalation aromatherapy has the potential to reduce stress and anxiety with data emerging to further support this result across a wide modality of clinical treatments. However, there is a clear need for the development of standard protocols for research in this area, generating measurable results which will create the opportunity for more rigorous evidence-based outcomes.
The Effect of Aromatherapy on Blood Pressure and Stress Responses by Inhalation and Foot Massage in Patients With Essential Hypertension
Holistic Nursing Practice (July 2022)
Conclusion: Lavender oil reduced blood pressure, heart rate, serum cortisol, and subjective anxiety in hypertensive patients.
Bowen
Bowen Therapy: An Overview
Pondicherry Journal of Nursing (January 2022)
Conclusion: Bowen therapy was associated with improvements in functional ability of different diseases as well as symptoms reduction. Quantitative and qualitative assessments revealed that Bowen successfully reduced stress and improved energy, wellbeing, and sleep.
Effectiveness of Craniosacral therapy, Bowen therapy, static touch, and standard exercise program on sleep quality in fibromyalgia syndrome: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (June 23, 2023)
Conclusion: The current study will provide insights into the treatment options to manage sleep and fibromyalgia symptoms.
Brain Gym
Influence of Brain Gym Activities on Sleep Quality in Moderate Insomnia
Cureus (September 2022)
Conclusion: The data analysis depicted that after the brain gym activity intervention, there was a marked reduction in the score of PSQI, suggesting significant improvement in their sleep quality, and it can be used as non-pharmacological management for mild to moderate insomnia students.
Effectiveness of massage chair and classic massage in recovery from physical exertion: a pilot study
Journal of Novel Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (March 23, 2023)
Conclusion: Hand massage may have benefits for recovery from physical exertion, but due to the individuality of subjects, detailed methodological studies are needed to evaluate the effects of massage chair vs. hand massage.
Clinical effects of using a massage chair on stress measures in adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (June 2022)
Highlights: This is the first study to report the effect of massage chair on the stress hormones through a randomized controlled trial. The use of massage chair was associated with a decreased level of serum cortisol and DHEA-S. Perceived rate of health status and depression was improved after using massage chair for 6 months. Using massage chair might be an effective way of managing chronic stress in older adults.
Craniosacral Therapy
Treatment of infant colic with craniosacral therapy: A randomized controlled trial
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (December 2022)
Conclusion: CST helps to improve the symptoms of infant colic, including reducing crying hours and increase the sleep in infants.
Trends in Domestic and International Clinical Research of Craniosacral Therapy: Scoping Review
Journal of Korean Mediicne Rehabilition (July 2022)
Conclusions: This is the first scoping review of craniosacral therapy in Korea, and we believe that our findings could support its utility as Chuna. In the future, more studies should be conducted to establish the evidence of clinical efficacy of craniosacral therapy and develop standard techniques in Korean medicine.
A Proposal for the Use of Craniosacral Therapy in Firefighter Cadets to Decrease Cortisol Levels and Improve Postural Stability—A Randomized Trial
Joural of Mens Health (June 2022)
Conclusion: Craniosacral therapy may have a beneficial effect in reducing high cortisol levels.
Effect of a Craniosacral Therapy Protocol in People with Migraine: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Clinical Medicine (January 2022)
Conclusions: A protocol based on craniosacral therapy is effective in improving pain, frequency of episodes, functional and overall disability, and medication intake in migraineurs. This protocol may be considered as a therapeutic approach in migraine patients.
Effectiveness of craniosacral therapy in the human suboccipital region on hamstring muscle: A meta-analysis based on current evidence
Medicine (February 23, 2023)
Conclusion: CST could change the flexibility of the hamstring muscles. CST had a better curative effect when compared to proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique on the hamstring muscles.
Effectiveness of Craniosacral therapy, Bowen therapy, static touch, and standard exercise program on sleep quality in fibromyalgia syndrome: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (June 23, 2023)
Conclusion: The current study will provide insights into the treatment options to manage sleep and fibromyalgia symptoms.
Feldenkrais
Effects of the Feldenkrais Method as a Physiotherapy Tool: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (October 2022)
Conclusion: Evidence shows that Feldenkrais Method has therapeutic effects comparable to other physiotherapy techniques in patients with spine pain. In addition, improvements in mobility and balance were seen in the elderly and people with neurodegenerative diseases.
Dance Intervention Using the Feldenkrais Method Improves Motor, and Non-Motor Symptoms and Gait in Parkinson's Disease: A 12-Month Study
Journal of Movement Disorders (January 2022)
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that dance intervention can be a complementary management method for Parkinson's Disease patients.
Hellerwork/Structural Integration
Level of Structural Integration and Its Association with Intersession Experiences and Outcomes: A Pilot Study
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (July 2022)
Conclusion: The level of structural integration (LSI) is associated with the situations, contents and negative emotions in the intersession experiences of patients, as well as their symptom distress over the course of therapy. Furthermore, the LSI is a significant predictor of outcomes. Patients with different LSI had different intersession experiences.
Influence of Rolfing Structural Integration on Active Range of Motion: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Journal of Clinical Medicine (October 2022)
Conclusions: An Structural Integration (SI) intervention could produce multiple changes in the components of myofascial chains that could help maintain upright posture in humans and reduce inadequate compensatory patterns. SI may also affect differently the outcome of some active range of motion parameters in women and men.
Infant Massage
The Effect of Baby Massage on The Sleep Duration of Infants Aged 6-12 Months
Nursing and Health Sciences Journal (December 2022)
Conclusion: There was an effect of baby massage on the sleep duration of infants aged 6-12 months. It is hoped that mothers can continue to massage their children by learning baby massage so that they can massage themselves at home regularly and routinely so that babies do not experience sleep disturbances and can grow and develop optimally.
The efficacy of massage as a nightly bedtime routine on infant sleep condition and mother sleep quality: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Neonatal Nursing (August 2022)
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that infants’ bedtime massages would improve some of the sleep markers of mothers and infants, and therefore, can be suggested as a practical, harmless, and cost-free method to improve sleep.
Lessons learned from child health care nurses' experiences of teaching infant massage groups: A qualitative interview-based study
Nursing Open (December 2022)
Conclusions: Child health care nurses are uniquely familiar with infant massage and the benefits it provides both parents/guardians and their infants. Specifically, infant massage has a calming effect that reduces stress and strengthens the relationship between infants and their parents/guardians.
Effects of Infant Massage: A Systematic Review
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (May 2022)
Conclusions: Infant massage may be effective at relieving pain, improving jaundice, and increasing weight gain. Although statistically significant differences were not found between all experimental and control groups, no adverse effects of infant massage were observed. By placing the aforementioned effects in the context of child health care, infant massage may prove beneficial on these outcomes. Given the dearth of research on infant massage in the context of child health care, further research is warranted.
Infant massage and brain maturation measured using EEG: A randomised controlled trial
Early Human Development (September 2022)
Conclusions: Central alpha regional relative power was greater in massaged infants compared to SC group infants, suggesting relatively greater brain maturation in this area. A measurable massage dose effect in favour of greater brain maturation, shows promise for verification in a larger clinical trial.
Benefits of maternally-administered infant massage for mothers of hospitalized preterm infants: a scoping review
Maternal Health, Neonatology and Perinatology (May 23, 2023)
Conclusions: Maternally-administered infant massage (IM) may benefit mothers of preterm infants by reducing anxiety, stress, depressive symptoms, and by improving maternal-infant interactions in the short-term. Additional research with larger cohorts and robust design is needed to understand the potential relationship between IM and parental outcomes.
Parent-Performed Infant Massage for Improving Parental Mental State Within 18 Months Postpartum: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services (April 23, 2023)
Conclusion: Parent-performed infant massage (PPIM) in a neonatal intensive care unit is advisable for improving the general mood of mothers of preterm infants. Additional methodologically rigorous studies are needed to provide stronger evidence.
Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Clinical Breast Cancer (July 2022)
Conclusion: The current evidence based on the RCTs shows that pain of BCRL patients undergoing MLD is significantly improved, while our findings do not support the use of MLD in improving volumetric of lymphedema and quality of life. Note that the effect of MLD for preventing BCRL is worthy of discussion.
Manual Lymph Drainage With Progressive Arm Exercises for Axillary Web Syndrome After Breast Cancer Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Physical Therapy (March 2022)
Conclusion: The physical therapy program tailored to axillary web syndrome (AWS) was found to be effective for AWS symptoms in women after breast cancer surgery, both immediately after the program and after 3 months.
Effect of Manual Lymphatic Drainage on Breast Cancer-Related Postmastectomy Lymphedema: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Cancer Nursing (March 2023)
Conclusion: Manual lymphatic drainage treatment statistically did not reduce the upper extremity limb volume of breast cancer-related postmastectomy lymphedema (BCRL), but upper extremity volume was reduced at statistically significant levels when treatment number were ≥20 sessions or the duration of treatment was >2 weeks.
Acute Effects of Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Compression with Exercise Therapy on Breast Lymphedema Following Breast-Conserving Surgery and Radiotherapy
Lymphatic Research and Biology (June 2023)
Conclusions: Local tissue water percentages increased with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and decreased with compression with exercise. In the treatment of breast lymphedema, MLD and compression bandage with exercise may be beneficial in the management of the symptoms of swelling, pain, and stiffness.
The Randomized Controlled Study of Low-Level Laser Therapy, Kinesio-Taping and Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Patients With Stage II Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema
European Journal of Breast Health (January 2023)
Conclusion: Kinesio-taping led to better results than manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and was similarly effective compared with low-level laser in stage II breast cancer-related lymphedema at the twelfth week of follow-up. Kinesio-taping and low-level laser should be considered as alternative treatments in early-moderate stages of lymphedema. After these modalities, multi-layer compression and compression bandaging remain cornerstones of lymphedema treatment.
Massage Therapy
Effect of manual soft tissue therapy on the pain in patients with chronic neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (November 2022)
Conclusion: This meta-analysis found that MSTT has a significant effect on alleviating the pain of patients with CNP. In addition, the use of different pain measurement tools may influence effect of the intervention, but more clinical studies are needed in the future to determine the specific effect.
The effect of slow-stroke back massage on chemotherapy-related fatigue in women with breast cancer: An assessor blinded, parallel group, randomized control trial
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: This study has shown that SSBM, one of the non-pharmacological methods, has a positive effect on the level of fatigue in women with breast cancer.
Efficacy of massage therapy in improving outcomes in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: Massage therapy may lead to some improvement in pain, stiffness, and functionality scores in the short term but not in long term. Aromatherapy massage was not found to be any better than standard massage therapy. Current evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity amongst trials and small sample size of the studies.
The effect of Swedish massage on pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A randomized controlled trial
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: Swedish massage can be effective in reducing pain and the need to use painkillers in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Massage Therapy: A Person-Centred Approach to Chronic Pain
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (September 2022)
Conclusion: Improving the way chronic pain is treat-ed and managed by massage therapists is essential for improving treatment outcomes. Contemporary best-practices for pain care support a multi-dimensional approach that understands the intersection of biological, psychological, and social factors and empowers people with shared decision-making. Providing a person-centred approach that includes evidence-based practice and shared decision-making fa-cilitates self-efficacy and is of paramount importance for massage therapists. Embracing a person-centred approach can help to reorient perspective towards the individual and tailor treatment plans based on each patient’s unique values.
The effect of massage therapy on pain after surgery: A comprehensive meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (December 2022)
Highlights: Massage therapy is effective in reducing postoperative pain, in both the short and long term. In the inclusion criteria, there are no restrictions on the type of surgery and pain. Subgroup analysis found that many factors such as massage therapy type did not affect the treatment effect. For subtype analysis of surgery, massage therapy has different effects on postoperative pain after surgery.
Classical Massage and Relaxation Exercise on Symptom Status and Quality of Life in Advanced Stage Patients With Heart Failure
Holistic Nursing Practice (May 2022)
Conclusion: The classic massage and Benson relaxation exercise showed beneficial effects in the management of heart failure (HF) symptoms in advanced stage HF patients who were hospitalized and received intensive treatment.
Effect of massage therapy on sleep quality in critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Clinical Medicine (August 2023)
Conclusion: Massage intervention, particularly foot reflexology massage, with a two-night duration showed improvement in subjective sleep quality among critically ill patients. Although evidence quality was low, the results suggest that massage interventions provide a non-invasive, low-cost and effective way to promote sleep quality in critically ill adult patients.
Comparison of the Effect of Reflexology and Swedish Massage on Restless Legs Syndrome and Sleep Quality in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: a Randomized Clinical Trial
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (June 2022)
Conclusion: Reflexology and Swedish massage, as complementary methods, can improve the restless leg syndrome and sleep quality of patients undergoing hemodialysis. However, foot reflexology massage had been more effective.
Massage therapy as a complementary and alternative approach for people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review
Disability and Rehabilitation (August 2022)
Conclusions: Different massage approaches effectively improved multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms such as fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression, and spasticity. Implications for rehabilitation. The present review results indicate that massage may have beneficial effects on motor and non-motor symptoms in MS. Massage could be considered a complementary and alternative treatment combined with conventional medicine in people with MS. Pain and fatigue are best improved by Swedish massage, while anxiety and depression are effectively improved by reflexology.
Massage Therapy for Hospitalized Patients Receiving Palliative Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management (May 2023)
Conclusion: Massage therapy in complex patients with advanced illness was beneficial beyond dosage. Findings support session length (10 or 20 minutes) was predictive of short-term improvements while treatment frequency (once or three consecutive days) predicted sustained improvement at follow-up.
The Efficacy and Safety of Manual Therapy for Symptoms Associated with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (October 2022)
Conclusions: The present study provides strong evidence that massage therapy could alleviate fatigue, pain, and spasms in multiple sclerosis patients, while reflexology plays a positive role in relieving pain. Physicians could consider massage therapy or reflexology as a safe and effective complementary and alternative treatment. Larger randomized controlled trials with higher methodological quality are needed in the future, which aim to provide more meaningful evidence for further proof of efficacy.
Effectiveness of therapeutic massage for improving motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Neurology (September 2022)
Conclusion: Therapeutic massage was effective in improving motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). It is suggested to be an appropriate form of complementary and alternative medicine in treating PD.
The effect of slow-stroke back massage on chemotherapy-related fatigue in women with breast cancer: An assessor blinded, parallel group, randomized control trial
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: This study has shown that slow-stroke back massage, one of the non-pharmacological methods, has a positive effect on the level of fatigue in women with breast cancer.
Abdominal Massage in Functional Chronic Constipation: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Physical Therapy (July 2022)
Conclusion: Abdominal massage should be one of the first-line conservative approaches in the management of functional chronic constipation. Further randomized placebo-controlled studies with long-term follow-up are needed.
Effect of Prenatal Perineal Massage on Postpartum Perineal Injury and Postpartum Complications: A Meta-Analysis
Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine (July 2022)
Conclusion: Compared with no prenatal perineal massage, prenatal perineal massage can reduce the risk of perineal injury, the incidence of lateral perineal resection, and the incidence of long-term pain.
Effect of localized acupressure massage on anxiety during chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer: A single-blind randomized clinical trial
European Journal of Integrative Medicine (January 2023)
Conclusion: Due to the simplicity and low cost of massage, it is recommended that this method be adopted to reduce patients' anxiety along with other treatments.
The Effect of Aromatherapy on Blood Pressure and Stress Responses by Inhalation and Foot Massage in Patients With Essential Hypertension
Holistic Nursing Practice (July 2022)
Conclusion: Lavender oil reduced blood pressure, heart rate, serum cortisol, and subjective anxiety in hypertensive patients.
Effectiveness of massage chair and classic massage in recovery from physical exertion: a pilot study
Journal of Novel Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (March 23, 2023)
Conclusion: Hand massage may have benefits for recovery from physical exertion, but due to the individuality of subjects, detailed methodological studies are needed to evaluate the effects of massage chair vs. hand massage.
Myofascial Cupping
Evidence-based and adverse-effects analyses of cupping therapy in musculoskeletal and sports rehabilitation: A systematic and evidence-based review
Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation (January 2023)
Conclusion: This study provides the first attempt to analyze the evidence level of cupping therapy in musculoskeletal and sports rehabilitation. However, cupping therapy has low to moderate evidence in musculoskeletal and sports rehabilitation and might be used as a useful intervention because it decreases the pain level and improves blood flow to the affected area with low adverse effects.
Effects of dry cupping therapy on pain, dynamic balance and functional performance in young female with recreational runners chronic plantar fasciitis
Sports Orthopaedics and Traumatology (June 2022)
Conclusion: Findings of the present study suggests that dry cupping therapy may be considered as an adjunct treatment method in addition to the conventional treatment in young female runners with chronic plantar fasciitis.
The efficacy and safety of cupping as complementary and alternative therapy for metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Medicine (March 2023)
Conclusions: Despite some risk of bias and low to substantial heterogeneity of the included studies, cupping therapy can be considered a safe and effective complementary intervention for reducing waist circumference, body weight, body mass index, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients with metabolic syndrome. In the future, well-designed, high-quality, rigorous methodology, and long-term randomized controlled trials in this population are required to assess the efficacy and safety of cupping therapy.
Myofascial Release
Evaluation of Lumbar Myofascial Release Effects on Lumbar Flexion Angle and Pelvic Inclination Angle in Patients with Non-Specific Low Back Pain
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (March 2022)
Conclusion: The present study results showed that myofascial release techniques in patients with low back pain could help decrease pain intensity and increase lumbar flexion and pelvic inclination angle. Based on the present study results, myofascial release can be a treat-ment to correct posture in patients with chronic non-specific, low back pain. Due to the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was not possible to evaluate the long-term effects of treatment.
Effect of Remote Myofascial Release on Lumbar Elasticity and Pain in Patients With Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (March 2023)
Conclusion: The improvements in the outcome measures for both groups suggest that remote myofascial release was effective in patients with chronic nonspecific lower back pain (LBP). The remote myofascial release of the lower limbs reduced the elastic modulus of the lumbar fascia and LBP.
Myofascial release strategies and technique recommendations for athletic performance: A systematic review
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (October 2023)
Conclusions: Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization should be used in sports preparation to improve muscle response and explosive force production. Foam roller self-myofascial release increases flexibility as it tends to restore tissue elasticity, but it does not improve aerobic activity. The suggested time for strategy intervention is at least 90 seconds per muscle group.
Effects of myofascial release with tennis ball on spasticity and motor functions of upper limb in patients with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled trial
Medicine (August 2022)
Conclusion: Myofascial release performed with a tennis ball in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy has more beneficial effects on spasticity and motor functions of the upper extremity in patients with chronic stroke compared to conventional therapy alone.
Myofascial release for the treatment of pain and dysfunction in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Clinical Rehabilitation (April 2023)
Conclusion: This systematic review suggests that myofascial release is an effective treatment for the improvement of pressure pain thresholds of trapezius and suboccipital muscle in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain. However, there is low to moderate evidence and may change over time.
Effects of an active intervention based on myofascial release and neurodynamics in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial
Physiotherapy and Theory Practice (September 2022)
Conclusions: A 4-week self-administered program for patients with chronic neck pain was effective in reducing the presence of active trigger points. Pain severity, average pain, and some aspects of functionality also improved significantly after the intervention.
Safety and efficacy of a self-induced myofascial release protocol using a foam roller in patients with haemophilic knee arthropathy
Haemophilia (March 2022)
Conclusions: Myofascial self-release using a foam roller is safe in patients with haemophilic knee arthropathy. A myofascial self-release protocol can improve perceived pain, range of motion and knee joint status, as well as hamstring flexibility in patients with haemophilic knee arthropathy.
The effect of myofascial release in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema: a cross-over randomized controlled trial
European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (February 2023)
Conclusions: Myofascial release-based treatment showed clinical improvement in shoulder function, induced by decreased edema volume and pain, and improved range of motion and chest mobility. However, a further study with parallel randomized controlled trials to confirm what was achieved in the present study.
Pilates
Pilates for neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (July 2022)
Conclusion: Based on low certainty evidence, the Pilates method is not better than other treatments at 3 months to reduce pain and disability. High quality trials are required.
Effects of Pilates on the risk of falls, gait, balance and functional mobility in healthy older adults: A randomised controlled trial
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (April 2022)
Conclusion: Effects of 12 weeks of Pilates intervention on functional mobility, mobility, postural balance and spatiotemporal gait parameters were identified. Further trials of a longer duration are warranted to determine the effectiveness of Pilates on falls prevention.
Do Pilates exercises improve balance in patients with multiple sclerosis? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders (January 2022)
Conclusions: Pilates exercises might be an optional method for improving balance in MS patients, however, we need further robust studies to prove whether it is more effective than other physiotherapy interventions.
Effects of Pilates exercises on cardiorespiratory fitness: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (May 2023)
Conclusion: Pilates had a large effect on cardiorespiratory fitness, provided that it was administered for at least 1440 min (equivalent to 2x-week for three months or 3x-week for two months). However, due to the low quality of the evidence, these results should be interpreted with caution.
Efficacy of Pilates on Pain, Functional Disorders and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (February 2023)
Conclusions: This meta-analysis reveals that Pilates may have positive efficacy for pain relief and the improvement of functional disorders in chronic lower back pain patients, but the improvement in quality of life seems to be less obvious.
Pilates training reduces blood pressure in older women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (April 2022)
Conclusion: Four and eight weeks of pilates training promotes reduction in the systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure of older women with type-2 diabetes. The exercises performed in this study were mainly body weight exercises and required a few auxiliary materials, which turns this method of training accessible.
Qigong
Effects of health qigong on sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (December 2022)
Highlights: Health Qigong, particularly Baduanjin, improved sleep quality in adult populations with and without disease. The diseased population had significantly greater sleep improvements after Health Qigong training. The effect of Health Qigong may be, at least in part, attributed to nonspecific effects.
Inter-individual response differences on resting blood pressure as a result of qigong in adults: An ancillary meta-analysis of randomized trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (June 2022)
Highlights: Qigong reduces resting blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive adults. Qigong-associated inter-individual response differences in BP were not found. Other external factors account for inter-individual response differences in BP.
Qigong for mental health and sleep quality in postmenopausal women: A randomized controlled trial
Medicine (September 2022)
Conclusions: After an intervention based on a BaDuanJin Qigong exercise program for 12 weeks, improvements were observed in sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, the total score of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, anxiety and depression in postmenopausal Spanish women.
Effects of tai chi and Qigong on cognition in neurological disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Geriatric Nursing (July 2022)
Conclusions: Tai chi and Qigong were effective interventions to improve cognition in patients with Parkinson's disease, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and traumatic brain injury; however, no randomized controlled trials were performed for other neurological disorders.
Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on the mobility of stroke survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
PLOS One (November 2022)
Conclusion: Tai Chi and Qigong performed for 12 weeks or less were effective in improving the mobility of stroke survivors. Further studies are warranted to assess whether Tai Chi and Qigong work best as an adjunct to rehabilitation, an effective alternative to rehabilitation or as a maintenance strategy, and whether the results could be further optimized by assessing different schools of Tai Chi and Qigong, different types of stroke patients, and different points in the post-stroke recovery process.
Are movement-based mindful exercises (QIGONG, TAI CHI, AND YOGA) beneficial for stroke and Parkinson’s disease? A scoping review
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (March 2023)
Highlights: Yoga improves balance and motor function in Parkinson’s Disease. In stroke, Tai chi helps to enhance function and independency. Mind-body approaches need to be tailored in neurological disorders.
Reflexology
‘Reflexology: Exploring the mechanism of action’
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (August 2022)
Conclusion: A deeper understanding of the mechanism of action for reflexology may help to further develop research into safety and efficacy. Such an understanding may lead to the integration of knowledge which may provide both symptomatic support and longer term preventative health benefits.
Comparison of the Effect of Reflexology and Swedish Massage on Restless Legs Syndrome and Sleep Quality in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: a Randomized Clinical Trial
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (June 2022)
Conclusion: Reflexology and Swedish massage, as complementary methods, can improve the restless leg syndrome and sleep quality of patients undergoing hemodialysis. However, foot reflexology massage had been more effective.
Comparing the Effects of Warm Footbath and Foot Reflexology on the Fatigue of Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Integrative Cancer Therapies (January 2023)
Conclusion: Our results showed that foot reflexology and warm footbath reduced the fatigue of patients undergoing radiotherapy. However, foot reflexology was more effective in reducing the fatigue of patients undergoing radiotherapy than warm footbath. It is recommended that simple and low cost non-pharmacological interventions such as foot reflexology to decrease of side effect of radiotherapy among cancer patients should be widely performed.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of reflexology for people with multiple sclerosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Medicine (February 2023)
Conclusions: Reflexology therapy can be used as an effective intervention for the pain and fatigue of multiple sclerosis patients while improving the quality of life.
The Effects of Foot Reflexology on Vital Signs: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (September 2022)
Conclusions: Short-term followup results showed that foot reflexology exerted positive effects on vital signs, reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate and increased pulse oxygen saturation.
A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Study of Reflexology, Sucrose, and Other Treatments for Needle Procedures in Newborns
Pediatric Neurology (March 2023)
Conclusions: Although sucrose was the most effective method, reflexology has significant positive effects, especially on average heartbeat, reducing pain, and shortening crying times during heel blood sampling. Reflexology might be considered among the nonpharmacologic methods to be applied before routine interventions, but still, there is a need for further studies to investigate the efficiency.
Effect of foot reflexology on neonates’ clinical outcomes with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing phototherapy: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Neonatal Medicine (April 2023)
Conclusion: Application of foot reflexology is effective in improving the full-term neonates’ clinical outcomes with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing phototherapy. Thus, this non-pharmacological method is recommended as a supplement treatment for neonates with hyperbilirubinemia beside phototherapy.
Acupuncture and Reflexology for Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Cohort Study
Integrative Cancer Therapies (January 2022)
Conclusions: The results indicate that acupuncture and reflexology administered alongside chemotherapy may reduce patient reported symptom burden and patient global symptom related distress. Future research would include an active control group, and consider confounding factors such as chemotherapy stage and medication.
A randomized clinical trial on the effect of foot reflexology performed in the fourth stage of labor on uterine afterpain
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth (January 2022)
Conclusion: The results revealed that foot reflexology in the fourth stage of labor has positive effects on relief from uterine afterpain. Reflexology is therefore recommended as a measure to reduce postpartum uterine afterpains.
A randomized controlled trial of reflexology effect after abdominal surgery on patient satisfaction, pain and vital signs
Explore (October 2022)
Conclusion: Surgical pain and non-optimal vital signs that are not well managed after surgery causes various complications and decrease patient satisfaction. The results of our study emphasize the power of reflexology in effective surgical pain management and normalizing vital signs and increasing patient satisfaction. We suggest that reflexology be performed to patients following abdominal surgery.
Reiki
The effect of acupressure or reiki interventions on the levels of pain and fatigue of cancer patients receiving palliative care: A randomized controlled study
Explore (January 2023)
Conclusion: Acupressure or Reiki interventions were found to effective in reducing levels of pain, analgesic use, and fatigue. It was seen that in addition to their use in routine nursing care, both treatments can be accepted as effective nursing interventions that reduce pain and fatigue in stage III and IV cancer patients receiving palliative care.
An Evaluation of the Subjective Experience of Receiving Reiki: Qualitative Results from a Pragmatic Effectiveness Study
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (September 2022)
Conclusions: The findings from this study suggest that Reiki can elicit the relaxation response and alter emotions and perception in such a way as to facilitate a transformative subjective healing experience. Future work will analyze these themes as they relate to changes in symptoms and compare the experience of Reiki with other biofield therapies.
Effect of Reiki Therapy on Blood Pressure and Alcohol Consumption in Young Adults: A Clinical Trial
Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine (August 2022)
Conclusion: The results obtained confirmed our hypothesis of the research, since the experimental group had a significant effect on the decrease of the mean arterial pressure and alcohol consumption after 21 sessions of Reiki therapy intervention.
Rolfing
Influence of Rolfing Structural Integration on Active Range of Motion: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Journal of Clinical Medicine (October 2022)
Conclusions: An Structural Integration (SI) intervention could produce multiple changes in the components of myofascial chains that could help maintain upright posture in humans and reduce inadequate compensatory patterns. SI may also affect differently the outcome of some active range of motion parameters in women and men.
Shiatsu
The Experience of Shiatsu for Care Partners and Persons Living With Dementia: a Qualitative Pilot Study
International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (March 2022)
Conclusions: The findings of this study are inconclusive. Self-shiatsu may be a helpful self-management approach for some care partners, but not for others. Shiatsu for persons living with dementia may not fit into the routines of many care partners. For others, however, it may offer a means to connect.
Shiatsu: A complementary medicine for the relief and verbalization of trauma
L'Encéphale (September 2022)
Conclusions: The findings suggest therapeutic benefits of shiatsu, especially on externalize violence with a relief of aggressive behavior directed against others or self (knowing, moreover, that internal tension, sleep disorders and non-verbalization of affects or traumatic memories, all improved by shiatsu, are also all risk factors for externalize violence). These results highlight, therefore, the need to develop a daily practice of shiatsu in child and adolescent psychiatry. Further research is required to clarify the effects of shiatsu and ascertain better its underlying mechanisms based on this exploratory pilot study.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi for anxiety and depression symptoms in cancer, stroke, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Highlights: Our review provides the most up-to-date information about the effect of Tai Chi on anxiety and depression in various chronic conditions. Tai Chi has a positive effect on anxiety and depression, especially among patients with cancer, stroke, and heart failure. Tai Chi can be considered an adjuvant or initial therapy for those who receive psychiatric treatment unconditionally, are unwilling to receive psychiatric treatment, or have mild psychiatric symptoms.
The effects of Tai Chi on glucose and lipid metabolism in patients with diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (December 2022)
Highlights: Regular physical exercise contributes to controlling blood glucose and increasing insulin sensitivity. Tai Chi exercise therapy shows significant superiority in improving the FBG, HbA1c, TG, and HDL-C in T2DM patients. The research data vary greatly and their accuracy and scientific rationality remain to be assessed.
Combined Tai Chi and cognitive interventions for older adults with or without cognitive impairment: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (August 2022)
Highlights: Combined Tai Chi and cognitive interventions have moderate to large effects on improving global cognition and memory for older adults. Small effects of combined Tai Chi and cognitive interventions were found on balance. No effects were reported on executive function, depressive symptoms, risks of falls, or wellbeing. The superiority of combined Tai Chi and cognitive interventions over the single intervention requires further investigation.
The effect of Tai Chi in elderly individuals with sarcopenia and frailty: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Ageing Research Reviews (December 2022)
Highlights: Tai Chi practice could improve the 30CST, TUGT, number of falls and FOF in the sarcopenic and frail elderly individual. The sarcopenic and frail elderly individual has improved DBP, MMSE score, depression and QOL after Tai Chi training. The advantage from Tai Chi exercise on the muscle mass, grip strength, or SPPB score was not obvious.
Tailored Sitting Tai Chi Program for Subacute Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Stroke (July 2022)
Conclusions: The results support the effectiveness of a tailored sitting Tai Chi program in improving recovery outcomes among subacute stroke survivors and provide additional knowledge to support the clinical implementation of such a program.
Benefits of Tai Chi Quan on neurodegenerative diseases: A systematic review
Ageing Research Reviews (December 2022)
Conclusion: Tai chi quan (TCQ) exercise can effectively improve the motor function, global cognitive function, and falls in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. However, the positive effects of TCQ on the quality of life and mood of patients with neurodegenerative diseases need further evidence.
Effects of tai chi and Qigong on cognition in neurological disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Geriatric Nursing (July 2022)
Conclusions: Tai chi and Qigong were effective interventions to improve cognition in patients with Parkinson's disease, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and traumatic brain injury; however, no randomized controlled trials were performed for other neurological disorders.
Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on the mobility of stroke survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
PLOS One (November 2022)
Conclusion: Tai Chi and Qigong performed for 12 weeks or less were effective in improving the mobility of stroke survivors. Further studies are warranted to assess whether Tai Chi and Qigong work best as an adjunct to rehabilitation, an effective alternative to rehabilitation or as a maintenance strategy, and whether the results could be further optimized by assessing different schools of Tai Chi and Qigong, different types of stroke patients, and different points in the post-stroke recovery process.
Are movement-based mindful exercises (QIGONG, TAI CHI, AND YOGA) beneficial for stroke and Parkinson’s disease? A scoping review
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (March 2023)
Highlights: Yoga improves balance and motor function in Parkinson’s Disease. In stroke, Tai chi helps to enhance function and independency. Mind-body approaches need to be tailored in neurological disorders.
Thai Massage
A randomized comparative study of traditional Thai massage and Thai boxing exercise on clinical-based outcomes in patients with scapulocostal syndrome
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (August 2022)
Conclusion: Four weeks of TTM and TBE reduced pain intensity and improved pain threshold and cervical movements at posttreatment and 1-month follow-up. TTM provided better reductions in pain intensity, pain threshold, cervical flexion, and left lateral flexion than TBE in patients with SCS.
The beneficial effects of traditional Thai massage on young patients with latent myofascial trigger points in the wrist extensor muscles: A randomized controlled trial
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (April 2023)
Conclusion: Traditional Thai massage can improve the pressure pain threshold, pain intensity and wrist flexion in this patient population.
Effectiveness of court-type traditional Thai massage plus meditation in patients with myofascial pain syndrome on upper trapezius
Advances in Integrative Medicine (March 2022)
Conclusion: Both court-type traditional Thai massage (CTTM) with or without meditation significantly relieved pain in the myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) patients, and the CTTM with meditation group experienced a greater reduction in substance p (SP) levels within the first week of treatment. This result suggests that CTTM with or without meditation may offer benefit for treating MPS patients.
Integrated breast massage versus traditional breast massage for treatment of plugged milk duct in lactating women: a randomized controlled trial
International Breastfeeding Journal (June 2022)
Conclusions: The integrated breast massage (IBM) technique resolved plugged milk duct significantly faster, with significantly less pain, and with significantly greater reduction in mass size after the first massage compared to traditional breast massage (TBM).
A Comparison of Effectiveness of Thai Traditional Massage and Tamsulosin in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine (January 2022)
Conclusion: The result suggests that Thai traditional massage has the potential to be an alternative treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms.
The Effect of Thai Massage on the Severity of Pain in Patients with Unstable Angina: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Journal of Caring Sciences (November 2022)
Conclusion: This study showed that Thai massage as non-invasive approach, concomitant with standard nursing care, has the potential to decrease chest pain. Nurses should be taught about pain relief methods for improving the quality of patient care.
Physiological and Psychological Effects of Parent-Delivered Traditional Thai Massage in Children With Autism: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
JMIR Research Protocols (February 2023)
Conclusions: This study will provide further evidence for massage treatment of autism and provide support for family-based care.
Touch for Health
‘Touch for Health’ based kinesiology interventions: An innovative qualitative research exploring clients' perspectives
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (November 2022)
Highlights: ‘Touch for Health’ based kinesiology was seen to facilitate self-awareness, experiences of wellbeing and promote self-care. The use of a mind-body approach with feedback from manual muscle testing and less need for dialogue were valued. Impacts align with the wellness model and complement conventional medicine. Photo-elicitation generated valuable narratives and may be suitable for research with other mind-body therapies.
Tuina
Pediatric Tui Na for cough in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (December 2022)
Highlights: Pediatric Tui Na may reduce the duration and recurrence rate of cough in children. Based on existing studies, Tui Na seems to be safe with minimum adverse events, but further observations are needed. Tui Na seems to be a potential alternative therapy for cough in preschool children.
Tuina combined with Adjuvant therapy for lumbar disc herniation: A network meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (November 2022)
Conclusions: According to the comprehensive review, Tuina combined with Traction and formula (TN + TRA + FM) seemed to be the most recommendable treatment which is more affordable and effective. However, all the available evidence was of low quality, so more high-quality studies are expected to confirm the effectiveness.
Pediatric tuina for allergic rhinitis in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Pediatrics (November 2022)
Conclusions: The present study provided favorable evidence for the treatment of allergic rhinitis in children with pediatric tuina. However, owing to the impact of research quality, this evidence needs to be validated via strictly designed clinical trials.
Tuina for perimenopausal insomnia: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Medicine (January 2022)
Conclusion: This study will provide a reliable evidence for the evaluation of the efficacy and side effects of Tuina in the treatment of perimenopausal insomnia.
Effects of Tuina on newborns with jaundice: A meta-analysis
Medicine (July 2022)
Conclusion: Tuina combined with blue light for treating neonatal jaundice can increase the effect of clinical treatment and reduce the adverse events caused by blue light therapy. Thus, the clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine Tuina in neonatal jaundice should be further promoted.
Effectiveness and functional magnetic resonance imaging outcomes of Tuina therapy in patients with post-stroke depression: A randomized controlled trial
Frontiers in Psychiatry (June 2022)
Conclusion: Tuina therapy administered 10 times within 2 weeks is safe and can effectively relieve depression and improve cognitive function in patients with PSD. This finding may be closely related to the effect of Tuina therapy on the activation and functional connectivity of the hippocampus.
The Effectiveness of Tuina in Relieving Pain, Negative Emotions, and Disability in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Pain Medicine (March 2023)
Conclusions: Tuina produced superior effects for pain, negative emotions, and disability over time, as compared to celecoxib in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).
Visceral Manipulation
Effect of visceral manipulation on menstrual complaints in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Journal of Osteopathic Medicine (August 2022)
Conclusions: Visceral manipulation yielded greater improvement in menstrual pain, irregularities, and premenstrual symptoms in polypolycystic ovarian syndrome patients when added to caloric restriction than utilizing the low-calorie diet alone in treating that condition.
Watsu
WATSU therapy for individuals with Parkinson's disease to improve quality of sleep and quality of life: A randomized controlled study
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusion: WATSU has the potential to be an attractive adjunct therapy for producing positive health impacts regarding sleep quality, which may translate to an overall improvement in QOL of individuals with PD.
Application areas and effects of aquatic therapy WATSU – A survey among practitioners
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2022)
Conclusions: Application areas and effects of WATSU are consistently employed practically and scientifically. Respondents’ ratings of effectiveness of WATSU match tentative research efforts. WATSU is cautiously recommended for the use in pain- and stress-related conditions. Short- and long-term effectiveness of WATSU need to be evaluated in high level intervention studies.
Yoga
The experience of yoga for persons with complex interpersonal trauma: A phenomenological approach
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (November 2022)
Conclusion: This study and its findings offer implications for clinical social work practice to incorporate yoga as a therapeutic intervention for trauma.
The effect of yoga on pulmonary function in patients with asthma: A meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (February 2023)
Conclusion: This meta-analysis provides a moderate level of evidence regarding yoga as a complementary therapy in managing mild to moderate asthmatic patients. It also adds to the current knowledge of the same.
Systematic review of yoga for symptom management during conventional treatment of breast cancer patients
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (August 2022)
Discussion: These studies revealed that Yoga has a potential therapeutic role in the symptomatic management of breast cancer patients, enhancing quality of life during treatment as well as improving adherence to treatment. Future studies with more defined and consistent methodologies are necessary to fully understand the potential use of Yoga therapy in patients with breast cancer.
Effects of yoga and aerobic exercise on wellbeing in physically inactive older adults: Randomized controlled trial (FitForAge)
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (June 2022)
Highlights: Yoga had a positive effect on wellbeing compared to a wait-list control group. Aerobic exercise had a similar positive effect on wellbeing. Injuries were less prevalent in the yoga group compared to aerobic exercise.
The Effects of Yoga on Pregnancy, Stress, and Anxiety in Infertile Individuals
Holistic Nursing Practice (September 2022)
Conclusion: In this systematic review, yoga practice was found to have a positive effect on stress, anxiety, and depression and emphasized that it should be applied as adjunctive therapy, especially during in vitro fertilization treatment. These studies have also shown that practicing yoga has a positive effect on pregnancy outcomes.
Effects of a Yoga-Based Stress Intervention Program on the Blood Pressure of Young Police Officers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (March 2022)
Conclusions: The results point to a significant correlation between blood pressure and both regenerative capacity and stress level. Thus, the study confirms the hypothesis that yoga exercises reduce perceived stress and exert positive effects on blood pressure.
A Comprehensive Review of Yoga Research in 2020
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (February 2022)
Conclusions: Yoga has been studied under a wide variety of clinicopathological conditions in the year 2020. This landscape review intends to provide an idea of the role of yoga in various clinical conditions and its future therapeutic implications.
Effectiveness of yoga therapy for migraine: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies
Journal of Clinical Neuroscience (May 2022)
Conclusions: Yoga therapy may benefit to reduce the headache frequency of migraine patients.
Effect of mindfulness yoga on anxiety and depression in early breast cancer patients received adjuvant chemotherapy: a randomized clinical trial
Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology (September 2022)
Conclusion: In patients with early-stage breast cancer who had received adjuvant chemotherapy, treatment with mindfulness yoga is as effective as conventional care in improving physical function. Along with other treatments, mindfulness yoga may help alleviate anxiety and depression to improve the overall physical and mental health and quality of life of early-stage breast cancer patients.
Are movement-based mindful exercises (QIGONG, TAI CHI, AND YOGA) beneficial for stroke and Parkinson’s disease? A scoping review
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (March 2023)
Highlights: Yoga improves balance and motor function in Parkinson’s Disease. In stroke, Tai chi helps to enhance function and independency. Mind-body approaches need to be tailored in neurological disorders.
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