Massage Techniques Research Articles

SPA Philosophy as a Tourism Support - Case Study on Thai SPA and Bali SPA

The SPA industry, a vital component of wellness tourism, offers unique experiences deeply rooted in cultural and natural contexts. This study explores thedistinctive philosophies of Thai and Balinese SPAs, examining their contributions totourism through a comparative analysis. Thai SPAs emphasize balance and energyflow, integrating traditional Thai massage techniques, herbal treatments, and Buddhistprinciples to create a holistic wellness experience. Conversely, Balinese SPAs focuson harmony with nature and spiritual serenity, reflecting the island's Hindu-Buddhistheritage. Treatments in Balinese SPAs often use local ingredients and are performedin serene natural settings, enhancing the connection between guests and the island’scultural and natural beauty. The methodology involved a comprehensive literaturereview and content analysis of academic articles, books, and industry reports, followedby a comparative analysis to highlight the unique features and commonalities betweenthe SPA philosophies of Thailand and Bali. The findings reveal that both SPAtraditions play a crucial role in enhancing cultural tourism by offering authenticexperiences that connect visitors with local traditions and practices. Additionally, theseSPAs contribute to sustainable tourism by utilizing local resources and supportingtraditional practices, which helps preserve cultural heritage and promotes economicgrowth in local communities. The study concludes that the distinctive philosophies ofThai and Balinese SPAs not only provide therapeutic benefits but also serve as culturalambassadors and promoters of sustainable tourism. As global interest in wellnesstourism continues to rise, these unique SPA experiences will remain pivotal inattracting tourists seeking comprehensive well-being experiences, thereby supportingthe overall sustainability and appeal of their respective destinations.

Baby Massage Education for Baby Growth and Development at Clinic Sahabat Bunda

Baby growth and development is an indicator of baby health. Data from WHO shows that a number of toddlers experience motor disorders, which can include fine motor skills and gross motor skills. Infancy is considered a critical and environmentally sensitive period, so optimizing care during this period has a significant impact on the child's well-being. Baby massage is recognized as a useful therapy for encouraging children's growth and development. However, mothers' low knowledge of independent baby massage techniques can affect their skills in carrying out baby massage. Therefore, an educational approach through counseling is considered an effective strategy for increasing mothers' understanding and skills. Community service activities (PKM) carried out at the Sahabat Bunda Midwife Clinic involve material presentations, question and answer discussions, and demonstrations as learning methods. The results of the PKM show that the material presented can be well understood and responded to by mothers. Positive feedback received indicates achievement of extension targets. Significantly, mothers' knowledge and skills regarding baby massage increased, as seen from their ability to answer questions and carry out baby massage demonstrations. It is hoped that through this PKM activity, mothers can be independent in carrying out baby massage, so that they can make a positive contribution to the optimal growth and development of their babies.

Tingkat ke Efektivan Metode Tradisional Massage Dalam Menurunkan Kelelahan Guru PJOK Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Kecamatan Tayu Kabupaten Pati

The aim of this research is to find out whether traditional massage is useful in reducing the level of fatigue of PJOK teachers. Therefore, it is hoped that this effort can significantly improve the performance and welfare of PJOK teachers in various industrial sectors. With a one group experimental design, this research is quasi-experimental in nature. From 20 to 22 June 2024, this research was conducted in Mukim Tayu, Pati Regency. The research population was 14 PJOK Madrasah Ibtidaiyah teachers in Tayu District who experienced fatigue. To determine the number of samples with the total samples obtained, this research used a total sampling technique. Paired t-test analysis is the data analysis method used in this research. Based on analysis data with a significance value of 0.000 on the traditional massage hypothesis test data on fatigue therapy, research findings show that traditional massage methods can reduce fatigue levels. A value of 0.000<0.05 based on these findings indicates that the pre-test and post-test data are significantly different. With a p value <0.05, the study concluded that traditional massage techniques can reduce fatigue levels significantly.

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupressure as an Adjunctive Therapy for Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting.

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) refers to the nausea and vomiting experienced by patients after the application of chemotherapy drugs, significantly affecting their quality of life and physical recovery, as well as increasing the pain of the patients. Basic medicine primarily focuses on acid suppression, gastric protection, and vomiting suppression, but there are still many patients with nausea and vomiting symptoms that cannot be alleviated. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can effectively alleviate nausea and vomiting through acupoint stimulation and pressure, while also offering advantages such as simplicity, affordability, and fewer side effects. The aim of this article is to introduce the method of using acupoint application combined with acupressure as an adjunctive therapy for CINV, using the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Antiemesis Tool (MAT) tablet scale as a questionnaire. The article details aspects such as acupoint selection, production, and the use of acupoint application, massage techniques, and operating procedures, all with the goal of ensuring the safety and efficacy of acupoint application combined with acupressure as an adjuvant therapy, thereby improving patients' clinical symptoms and quality of life.

Effect of Acupressure Technique with Wristband on Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Patient

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is widely recognized as the preferred method for treating gallstone disease. However, like any surgical procedure involving anesthesia, it carries the risk of postoperative complications, including common side effects such as vomiting and nausea. As a result, acupressure treatments targeting the pericardium 6 (P6) point have gained attention in alleviating nausea and vomiting. This non-invasive massage technique has been emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its significance.Objectives: The main purpose of this study is to assess the impact of acupressure treatment at the wristband point (P6) on nausea and vomiting experienced by patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.Method: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Safer Al Imam Al Hussein Surgical Hospital in Karbala Holy City. Sixty patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were divided into two groups: 30 patients in the intervention group received acupressure techniques using an elastic wristband postoperatively, which was removed after six hours, while 30 patients in the control group received routine conventional care. Descriptive analysis (e.g., frequency, percentage, and mean score) and inferential analysis (e.g., one-way ANOVA test, independent sample t-test) were employed to examine and measure the study outcomes. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: The mean score for nausea and vomiting in the intervention group decreased significantly from 1.97 ± 0.183 before the intervention to 1.13 ± 0.354 after implementing the intervention (p-value = 0.000). In contrast, the control group did not experience any improvement in their symptoms, with their condition worsening significantly.Conclusion: Patients experiencing nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery may benefit from the non-invasive treatment of wristband acupressure.

Clinical Impact of Thermotherapy and Spinal Twisting Massage on Chronic Non-Specific Spinal Pain.

As the prevalence of chronic non-specific spinal pain rises, the utilization of diverse massage devices for therapeutic intervention increases rapidly. However, research on their mechanisms, particularly those involving spinal twisting, is limited. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of heat application and spinal twisting massage techniques on individuals suffering from chronic non-specific spinal pain. A total of 36 individuals were divided into two groups: a control group (18 participants) and an experimental group (18 participants). The experimental group received heat treatment plus spinal twisting massage twice a week for four weeks, while the control group received heat therapy plus traditional vibration massage techniques. Effectiveness was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT), the Korean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (K-WOMAC) Index, spine tilt, and Cobb angle. VAS, K-WOMAC, and PPT significantly improved in both groups at all three time points. VAS notably decreased in the experimental group compared to the control group (p-value: 0.0369). Despite improvements in K-WOMAC and PPT scores within the experimental group, statistical significance remained elusive. Furthermore, spine tilt and Cobb angle showed no significant differences from baseline to the 6th week. In conclusion, the application of thermotherapy coupled with twisting massage demonstrates significant efficacy in mitigating chronic non-specific spinal pain, surpassing the pain-relief outcomes achieved through heat therapy in combination with standard vibration massage techniques.

PERINEUM MASSAGE EDUCATION TO EMPOWER PREGNANT WOMEN IN PREVENTING PERINEAL RUPTURE AT PENELEH PUBLICH HEALTH CENTER SURABAYA 2023

The three highest causes of maternal death in Indonesia, which is bleeding. Severe perineal rupture or what is called OASIS can cause bleeding that can lead to death. This community service activity aims to provide education about perineal massage to empower pregnant women to prevent perineal rupture at the Peneleh Public Health Center, Surabaya in 2023. Partnership programs are needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets. The problem faced by partners is that even though pregnancy classes are running, they do not yet provide material on preventing perineal rupture and practicing perineal massage so mothers do not have an understanding of techniques for preventing perineal rupture. Apart from that, health workers have not mastered perineal massage techniques so they cannot provide their knowledge to pregnant women. Activities are carried out in the form of providing material and practice. The evaluation was carried out by administering a pretest and posttest for knowledge and assessment of perineal massage skills for pregnant women and health workers. The evaluation method used was the ability of pregnant women to perform phantom perineal massage exercises. Pregnant women are said to be able to do this if they can do it correctly. Providing education related to perineal massage can increase the knowledge and skills of pregnant women thereby supporting the prevention of bleeding. Suggestions for community health centers to improve education so that pregnant women are ready to do it independently at home and provide support to health workers to provide education to pregnant women.

Effect of perineal massage and gentle techniques on perineal rupture in primigravida maternity mothers

Background: Perineal rupture is a tear that occurs when a baby is born, either spontaneously or by using tools/actions. Preventive efforts can be made to reduce the risk of perineal rupture by massaging the perineum and using good pressure techniques during labor. Objective: To determine the effect of perineal massage techniques and pressure on perineal rupture in primigravida mothers who give birth. Method: This research uses experimental research methods; this type of research is quantitative with a pretest-posttest research design with a control group and an analytical study design with a retrospective approach. The total research sample required was 30 primigravidas, with details, namely 15 people from the perineal massage group and 15 from the gentle technique. Sampling was taken using an accidental sampling technique, where subjects were selected as research samples based on cases/respondents who happened to be available in a place according to the context. Results: research results of primigravid mothers who experienced perineal rupture in the perineal massage group were two people (20%), and in the menstrual technique group, there were eight people (80%), based on the results of data analysis using the Wilcoxon test, the p-value was obtained. In the perineal massage group, it was 0.000; in the gentle technique group, it was 0.005. Conclusion: It can be concluded that perineal massage is more effective than gentle techniques in preventing perineal rupture in primigravida mothers. To ensure the effectiveness of the chosen method, it is advisable to consult with medical personnel experienced in this field and follow the recommendations and protocols approved by the relevant health authorities. In addition, careful monitoring and care during labor is also essential to minimize the risk of perineal rupture.

The Effectiveness of Sports Massage and Cold Water Immersion towards Fatigue Recovery and Post-Exercise Stress Levels of Sprinters at the Student Sports Education and Training Center (PPLP)

The first objective of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of sport massage and cold water immersion in the post-exercise fatigue recovery of the PPLP sprinter athletes. Second, to determine the effectiveness of sports massage and cold water immersion in reducing post-exercise stress levels of the PPLP sprinter athletes. This research used an experimental method with a pretest-posttest-control group design. The research population was PPLP Bogor 100m sprint athletes, totaling 30 athletes and they were divided into 3 treatment groups: Sport Massage, Cold Water Immersion, and Control. The sampling technique was random sampling with certain criteria. The three groups received an exercise simulation with a duration of 60 minutes divided into 10 minutes of warm up, 45 minutes of exercise, and 5 minutes of cooling down. Before and after the treatment, pretest and posttest were conducted including the level of fatigue recovery (pulse rate, RPE, FAS) and post exercise stress level (Daily Wellness Questionnaire). The normality test used Shapiro Wilks and the data homogeneity test referred to the Levene test. Testing the effectiveness used one way ANOVA for normally distributed data and for the data that was not normally distributed using the Kruskal Wallis test. The data was then processed by using the statistical program SPSS 22. The results show that (1) there are differences in the effectiveness of sport massage and cold water immersion towards the level of post-exercise fatigue of PPLP sprinters. There are differences in treatment effectiveness between the three groups (p < 0.05) for pulse and RPE variables. In the Tukey post hoc test it is found that there is a difference in effectiveness between sport massage and the control group (p < 0.05) and between cold water immersion and the control group (p < 0.05). However, between sports massage and cold water immersion there is no significant difference in recovering fatigue levels. (2) There is no difference in the effectiveness of sport massage and cold water immersion towards the level of post- exercise stress reduction of PPLP sprinters with a significance value (p > 0.05). Hence, in recovering post-exercise fatigue, sports massage or cold water immersion recovery techniques can be used according to the needs of athletes compared to passive rest.

An Algorithm for Jaw Pain among Divers.

Background: Temporomandibular disease (TMD) is commonly seen, and divers also experience pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or masticatory muscles. This article aims to provide a tool for diving physicians or medical professionals involved in diving medicine since jaw pain among divers is a pertinent subject and can be challenging to evaluate without some background in dentistry or maxillofacial surgery. Method: A basic algorithm was developed to provide a tool to differentiate jaw pains experienced by divers. Three brief case studies were developed, and five diving physicians were tasked with diagnosing the cases using the algorithm. Additionally, simple exercises and massage techniques that can benefit patients with TMD, particularly immediately after diving, are outlined. Results: All five diving physicians successfully diagnosed the cases using the algorithm. However, three of them were unable to diagnose the first case (disc luxation) without consulting the algorithm. Nevertheless, all physicians acknowledged the utility of the algorithm. Conclusions: Jaw pain in divers can stem from diverse causes, but effective treatment options exist. Our study findings provide valuable insights to assist diving physicians in making accurate diagnoses and guiding appropriate patient management, which may include referrals to specialists such as dentists, maxillofacial surgeons, or orthodontists.

Touch medicine: bridging the gap between recent insights from touch research and clinical medicine and its special significance for the treatment of affective disorders.

Interpersonal touch represents the primal sensory experience between humans, fostering social bonding from the cradle to the death bed. In recent decades "affective touch" has been intensely studied, stimulated by the discovery of a population of mechanosensitive unmyelinated C-tactile afferents in mammalian skin. A lack of touch in childhood is associated with negative consequences for psychosocial and physical health and the benefits of professional touch techniques in the prevention and treatment of various diseases have been shown over and over again in clinical studies. However, its application in mainstream clinical applications remains limited. To bridge the gap between recent discoveries in touch research and clinical medicine, we propose the establishment of a new discipline: 'Touch Medicine'. Here, we unfold the potential of Touch Medicine by focusing on the treatment of depression, which in our view is primarily a disorder of the lived body. Controlled studies and systematic reviews have demonstrated the antidepressant, anxiolytic and analgesic effects of specific massage techniques. Underlying mechanisms of action are currently under investigation, ranging from interoceptive, endocrinological, to stress-related or psychological underpinnings. Touch Medicine represents a novel interdisciplinary field connected to various medical specialities such as neonatology, pediatrics, pain medicine, neurology, psychiatry, and geriatrics - but also clinical psychology and psychosomatic medicine might benefit from the integration of these findings into their daily practice.

Android-based Kasih Ibu application for postpartum mothers using the research and development method

Endorphin massage is a light massage technique performed to help milk production. The purpose of this study is to develop the application of Kasih Ibu as a medium of education that can support the application of Endorphin Massage. The method used in this study is Research and Development (RnD) with Brog and Gall models. The subjects of the research are two media experts, two material experts, and 40 postpartum mothers. The results showed that the validation test results from material experts averaged 92% and validation results from media experts averaged 87%, which showed that the Kasih Ibu application was very feasible to use. Test user validity using a TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) questionnaire. Small-scale trials resulted in 95% and large-scale trials resulted in 96% with the very Worth it category. The Kasih Ibu application as a medium of Education and Communication is very worthy of use and can be accepted by postpartum mothers.

The Erector Spinae Muscle, a Determining Factor in the Pathological Biomechanics of the Spine

Pathological biomechanics of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is dominated by unilateral erector spinae stiffness. This leads to morpho pathological vertebral changes that aggravate the condition. Manual therapies can be used to correct the asymmetry of the stretch reflexes, and massage techniques can be used to improve the range of motion. Pain is an aggravating factor for biomechanical disorders and can be combated by myofascial techniques. To prevent scoliosis in adults, it is possible to tone the erector spinae muscles (deadlifts and their variations, exercises with free weights, arm and leg ergometer exercises, some aquatic exercises, Pilates isometric exercises performed on a stable surface). Keywords: spinal erector muscles, scoliosis prophylaxis

Acupuncture and Massage Techniques Combined to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

During the process of alcohol withdrawal, patients may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, headache, chills, sweating, palpitation, poor sleep, tremors, hallucinations and other withdrawal symptoms. Beneficial effects of acupuncture include reducing the need for alcohol, relieving withdrawal symptoms, and increasing energy and relaxation. In this way, the purpose of quitting drinking can be achieved by regulating the balance of yin and yang in the body and the partial prosperity and partial decline of the internal organs. Acupuncture can reduce a patient's need for alcohol, relieve withdrawal symptoms, reduce anxiety, hostility, stress, insomnia and depression, as well as increase energy and relaxation. After patients quit drinking through acupuncture treatment, alcohol withdrawal symptoms are significantly reduced to a tolerable level or even disappear completely. At the same time, massaging Guanchong point can promote the metabolism of water and alcohol in the body, which has a very good sobering effect.

Fourmoon Start-Up Management Development Start-Up Fourmoon (Multifunctional Painted Shawl)

The Multifunctional Painted Shawl is a special product from Fourmoon that prioritizes functionality and beauty. Based on Wikipedia, a shawl is traditional Indonesian clothing in the form of a long cloth and it is usually worn by women. This scarf is specially designed to have multiple functions in just one item. In addition, the multiple function of Fourmoon Shawl also has aesthetic value on its surface design and additional prada. The aims of this text are, 1). To Find out the Transfer of Entrepreneurial Knowledge to the Agung Bali Collection for the development of fourmoon start-up management (multifunctional Painted Shawls). 2). Finding out about the transfer of entrepreneurial skills to the Agung Bali Collection for the development of fourmoon start-up management (Painted multifunctional shawl). 3). Finding out about the transfer of Marketing Knowledge and Technology to the Agung Bali Collection. This type of research includes quantitative research and observation as a data collection method. The results of this MBKM are, 1). There are 9 functions of painted shawl products produced by fourmoon 2). The marketing that the writer does is offline and online way such as Instagram. The writer also applies a custom-order system 3). Developing insight such as prada adding with the canting massage technique.

A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Slow Back Massage on Quality of Sleep among Patients in Selected Government Hospitals, Daman

Sleep is the natural state of rest and that observed throughout the animal kingdom including mammals and birds and, in many reptiles, also amphibians and fish.in humans, other mammals and many other animals that have been studies -such as fish, birds, ants, and fruit-flies- regular sleep in necessary for survival. the capability for arousal from sleep is a protective mechanism and also necessary for health and survival.1 Sleep can also defined that normal state of altered consciousness during time of body rests; it is characterized by decreased responsiveness to the environments, and a person can be aroused from it by external stimuli.1Slow -stroke back massage, uses this slow stroke. Slow Back was introduced within a hospital context by Elizabeth in 1996 as slow, gentle, and rhythmic hand movements on the patients back as the steady speed (about 60 movements per minute), with mild and gentle pressure, for 10 minutes.3Back massage care provided those who are admitted in the Hospitals by using various techniques of back massage like Effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement by using these techniques to improvement in the blood flow and also to relieve the deeper muscle tension and clear out toxins.5 THE OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY WERE TO- 1. assess the pre-test and post-test level on quality of sleep of slow back massage among patients admitted in selected government Hospitals, Daman 2. determine the effectiveness of slow back massage on quality of sleep among patients admitted in selected government Hospitals, Daman. 3. find out the association between the pre-test level on quality of sleep among patients with selected demographic variables in patients in selected Government Hospitals, Daman. METHODOLOGY: A Quantitative Research approach with pre-experimental, one-group pre-test post- test Research design was adopted for the study. A total 40 sample were selected in Government hospitals, Daman based on selection criteria.in this research study consecutive sampling technique was used. Data was collected by using demographic variables and the Groningen sleep quality scale for assessment of quality sleep before and after the intervention of slow back massage. RESULT: The present study assesses the effectiveness of slow back massage in terms of improvement of quality sleep among patients. The post-test mean sleep score 2.65(SD=2.007) was less than pre-test mean sleep score 11.95 (SD=1.934) and ‘t’ value was 15.353(t0.05, 39=2.02) which was the significant effect of the slow back massage (p<0.05) and there is significant mean difference between the pre-test and post-test.the mean difference between the pre-test and post-test was 9.300.the chi-square calculated value shows there was no significant association with demographic variable. INTERPRETATION: Statistical significance was calculated by using paired t -test and chi-square. After slow back massage the quality of sleep has improved among patients. The findings of the study indicated the need of hospital to use the slow back massage to improvement the quality of sleep. This conclude that the non-pharmacological therapy such a slow back massage has significant impact in improvement the quality of sleep. KEY WORDS: slow back, Massage, quality sleep, patients.

Description of Female Students Skills in Carrying Out Endorphin Massage Techniques to Reduce Menstrual Pain

Introduction: Menstrual pain is pain felt during the menstrual cycle. The prevalence of primary Menstrual pain is generally experienced by adolescent girls aged 17-24 years by 67-90%. Menstrual pain has been identified as the most common menstruation-related cause of short-term school absenteeism among young girls. So menstrual pain in adolescents needs attention and information to provide appropriate treatment both pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically. Pharmacological treatment for menstrual pain can be overcome with analgesic drugs but causes addiction and dangerous side effects. One effective way to prevent menstrual pain is relaxation in the form of hand massage with endorphin massage techniques. This technique increases the release of endorphin and oxytocin hormones which function to reduce pain and based on research results show that the effectiveness of endorphin massage is more effective in reducing pain. Objective: The purpose of this research is to determine the description of female students' skills in carrying out endorphin massage techniques to relieve menstrual pain. Method: This study uses a descriptive research design. The sample in this study was determined using a quota sampling technique, namely as many as 32 respondents who fit the inclusion criteria. Result: The result of the research that respondents were able to carry out more endorphin massage technique, namely 20 people (62.5%), whereas 12 respondents (37.5%) were skilled at performing endorphin massage techniques. Conclusion: Most respondents were able to carry out the endorphin massage technique to reduce menstrual pain. In adolescent girls include menstrual conditions, unbalanced nutritional intake, eating and drinking patterns, non-compliance with Fe tablet consumption and lack of knowledge.

Seasonal variation of semen quality among the three genotypes of native chicken

The study, conducted at the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, aimed to assess semen quality and characteristics in three types of indigenous cocks and explore seasonal variations. Ninety bird samples from three genotypes, namely non-descript Deshi (ND), Hilly (HI), and Naked Neck (NN), were used in this research. A total of 548 semen samples were collected to evaluate the color, volume, consistency, and transparency of semen in different seasons. Semen collection was performed using an abdominal massage technique, and volume was measured with a tuberculin syringe. For determining microscopic physical and morphological characteristics, computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) software was used. Results showed that among three types of indigenous cocks, semen quality differed (p < 0.001) from season to season. Semen quality was comparatively good for ND in the autumn season, for HI in the summer season, and for NN in the spring season. The highest semen volume (0.318 ± 0.010 ml) was recorded in the summer season, and the lowest semen volume (0.218 ± 0.008 ml) was recorded in the spring season. Genotype had a significant (p < 0.01) effect on semen volume, and the effect of semen and genotype interaction on semen volume was non-significant (p > 0.05). The sperm concentration was higher in NN compared to ND and HI. The percentages of static, bent tail, coiled tail, DMR, distal droplet, and proximal droplet were comparatively higher in the HI and NN genotypes. The color, consistency, and volume of semen were affected by genotype and season.

Possibility of using therapeutic massage in rehabilitation after covid-19

Purpose of the research was to assess the influence of an individual classical back massage session as well as the effects of an entire 8-session back massage therapy on cardiological and spirometry parameters in a patient after recovering from COVID-19, with constant monitoring of massage areas’ temperature changes. Continuous oxygen saturation monitoring during the massage sessions enabled to observe a decrease in the level of this parameter during utilisation of rubbing and tapotement on muscles of both the right and the left side of the back. During the usage of the intense massage techniques SaO2 dropped maximally to 92– 93%. The observed changes in the VA/Q ratio that occurred in response to the 8-session massage therapy lasting for 3 weeks might indicate that better conditions for ventilation and oxygen perfusion at the alveolar surface were reached. This translated in the patient who recovered from COVID-19 into 2% increase in oxygen saturation level after completing the massage therapy. Conclusion. Utilising the intense rubbing and tapotement techniques has to be carefully considered due to their significant influence on decrease in the level of saturation.

What is Effective in Massage Therapy? Well, "It Depends…": a Qualitative Study of Experienced Orthopaedic Massage Therapists.

Massage has been used as a treatment for musculoskeletal pain throughout history and across cultures, and yet most meta-analyses have only shown weak support for the efficacy of massage. There is a recognised need for more research in foundational questions including: how massage treatments are constructed; what therapists actually do within a treatment, including their clinical reasoning; and what role therapists play in determining the effectiveness of a massage treatment. The aim of this study was to explore what experienced orthopaedic massage therapists consider to be the aspects of their work that contribute to effectiveness. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom with six experienced orthopaedic massage therapists in Australia. The interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis, seeking insights that might be practically applied, rather than theory-driven interpretations. The participants focused on the underlying differences between clients, between therapists, and between treatments, and clearly indicated that this concept of "difference" was foundational to their view of their work and was the underlying context for the comments they made. Within that frame of "difference", three key themes were interpreted from the data: (1) "Everyone is different so every treatment is different": how they individualised treatment based on these differences; (2) "How therapists cope with difference": how they managed the challenges of working in this context; and (3) "What makes a difference": the problem-solving processes they used to target each treatment to meeting the client's needs. Participants did not identify specific techniques or modalities as "effective" or not. Rather, a therapist's ability to provide effective treatment was based on an iterative process of treatment and assessment that allowed them to focus on the individual needs of the client. In this case "effectiveness" could be considered a process rather than a specific massage technique.