A survey of musculoskeletal injuries amongst Canadian massage therapists

Abstract

A survey was administered to registered massage therapists (RMT) across Canada to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort to the low back, shoulders, neck, wrist and thumbs associated with therapeutic treatments. A total of 502 RMT responded to the survey. Despite the majority of the respondents indicating they received proper training in therapy postures and self-care, there was a high prevalence of pain reporting to all areas of the upper extremity. The highest reporting of pain and discomfort was reported in the wrist and thumb, followed by the low back, neck and shoulders, respectively. There were no significant gender differences in pain/discomfort reporting except for the neck. The results of this survey indicate a high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort associated with delivering massage therapy treatments. Therapists must focus on proper technique posture and adhere to a regime of self-care to reduce the risks of pain and injury. Further research is needed to determine the effects of neuromuscular fatigue and technique accommodation as it relates to pain risk.