Massage for Muscle Pain
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does mention that you should not be undergoing other treatments for side effects related to your cancer diagnosis.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Myofascial Massage, Myofascial Release, Medical Massage for muscle pain?
Is myofascial release therapy safe for humans?
Myofascial release therapy, a type of massage, is generally considered safe for humans, as it is widely used for various conditions like low back pain and fibromyalgia. However, there is limited scientific research specifically addressing its safety, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.678910
How is Myofascial Massage different from other treatments for muscle pain?
Myofascial Massage, also known as Myofascial Release, is unique because it focuses on releasing fascial restrictions (tightness in the connective tissue) that can cause pain and dysfunction. Unlike other treatments, it can be performed manually by a therapist or through self-myofascial release using simple tools, making it accessible for home use.68111213
What is the purpose of this trial?
The objective of the proposed study is to assess how myofascial massage alters stiffness and microvascular perfusion of shoulder muscles and how these changes are influenced by patient-therapist interactions.The primary hypothesis is that stiffness of shoulder muscles will be decreased, and microvascular perfusion will be increased after a 30-minute myofascial massage, and that the addition of patient-therapist communication levels will result in greater changes with certain levels.
Research Team
David Lipps, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Michigan
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for breast cancer survivors who finished primary treatment 3 months to 2 years ago and are experiencing myofascial pain in the upper chest. Participants must understand and agree to the study's terms. Those with fibromyalgia, unrelated chronic injuries affecting arm function, ongoing treatments for other cancers or physical therapies, or broken skin in the area cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a 30-minute myofascial massage with varying levels of patient-therapist communication
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in muscle stiffness and perfusion after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Myofascial Massage
Myofascial Massage is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Relief of myofascial pain and stiffness in breast cancer survivors
- Management of post-surgical pain and restricted mobility in breast cancer patients
- Improvement of shoulder muscle properties in breast cancer survivors with myofascial pain
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Collaborator