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Research: FURLAN and co-workers,
Listed in Issue 85
Abstract
FURLAN and co-workers, Institute for Work Health, Toronto, Canada, afurlan@iwh.on.ca, review (41 references) the use of massage for low back pain .
Background
Low back pain is a very costly and widespread health problem in modern society. Massage is often thought to alleviate the pain and disability and speed recovery . This study aimed to assess the effects of massage for non-specific low back pain .
Methodology
A number of databases were searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, HealthSTAR, CINHAL, and dissertation abstracts through to May 2001. References included in studies found were screened . In addition, contact with massage associations and content experts was made. Studies included in the review had to be randomized or quasi-randomized trials investigating the use of any massage technique for non-specific low back pain . Two reviewers blinded to authors, journals and institutions selected the studies using the assessment criteria of the Cochrane Collaboration Back Review Group, and extracted the data using standardized forms.
Results
Nine publications reporting on eight randomized trials were included. Massage was compared with an inert treatment (sham laser) in one study that showed that massage was superior . In the other seven studies, massage was compared with other active treatments . They showed that massage was less efficient than manipulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS); equal to corsets and exercises ; and better than relaxation therapy, acupuncture, and self-care education . The beneficial effects of massage with chronic low back pain lasted for at least 1 year post treatment . One study comparing two different massage techniques concluded in favour of acupuncture massage over Swedish massage .
Conclusion
Massage might be beneficial for patients with low back pain, especially when combined with exercises and education. The particular effectiveness of acupuncture massage needs confirmation, and more studies are needed to confirm these conclusions and to measure longer-term effects of massage therapy .
References
Furlan AD, Brosseau L, Imamura M, Irvin E. Massage for low back pain: a systematic review within the framework of the Cochrane Collaboration Back Review Group. Spine 27 (17): 1896-1910, Sep 2002.
