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Context: The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of Swedish massage and manual lymph drainage (MLD) on performance parameters related to jumping, walking, and blood lactic acid levels after Nordic hamstring exercises. Design: This study was designed as a controlled crossover study. Methods: The study included 16 young trained men. Participants' lactic acid levels, gait-related parameters, and jumping performance were assessed. Assessments were performed at baseline, after Nordic hamstring exercises, and after 3 different passive recovery strategies: resting, Swedish massage, and MLD for 3 weeks. Results: As a result of the study, it was observed that lactic acid levels after the MLD and massage intervention were significantly lower in both MLD and massage conditions compared with the control condition (P <.05). There was no within- and between-conditions difference in jumping parameters after the MLD and massage interventions (P >.05). Walking speed in the MLD condition was statistically higher following the intervention compared with both before and after exercise (P <.05). Step time in the massage condition was statistically lower after the intervention compared with after Nordic hamstring exercise (P <.05). Conclusions: Although MLD and massage interventions have positive effects on lactic acid levels and walking and jumping parameters, they are not superior to each other. MLD can be used as a passive recovery technique after exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) continues to increase in popularity and utilization among manual therapists. Despite its popularity, little is known about the consistency in peak or average forces that clinicians apply when performing IASTM treatments with a 2-handed grip. The purpose of this study was to examine intraclinician consistency in peak and average forces when applying a 2-handed IASTM grip. Design: Randomized crossover study conducted in a university biomechanics laboratory. Methods: Five (5) licensed athletic trainers with prior IASTM training used 5 different IASTM instruments to apply simulated treatment. Average peak forces (Fpeak) and average mean forces (Fmean) were collected via force plate for all 5 IASTM instruments with a skin simulant attached. Descriptive statistics, coefficients of variation (CVs), box and density plots, and Bland–Altman plots were assessed. Results: The clinicians' average Fpeak ranged from 3.0 N to 11.6 N and average Fmean from 1.9 N to 8.1 N. Fpeak CVs for all instruments ranged from 14% to 31%, and Fmean CVs ranged from 15% to 35%. Bland–Altman plots indicated that for both Fpeak and Fmean, 97% of the data points fell within the limits of agreement across instruments and clinicians. Mean differences across instruments ranged from 0.9 N (91.8 g) to 4.1 N (418.1 g) for Fpeak and from 1.0 N (102.0 g) to 2.8 N (285.5 g) for Fmean. Thus, CVs, box and density plots, and Bland–Altman plots supported general force application consistency. Conclusion: Trained IASTM clinicians produced consistent treatment application forces (ie, Fpeak and Fmean) within treatment sessions during 2-handed simulated application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Soft tissue mobilization is frequently employed for delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) management. Foam roller and percussive massage are 2 popular soft tissue mobilization methods preferred by various professionals. However, their effects on DOMS symptoms are controversial and there are no studies comparing these 2 methods. The aim of the present study was to compare the acute effects of soft tissue mobilization with a foam roller or a percussive massage device on DOMS in young male recreational athletes. Design: A parallel, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Methods: Thirty-six participants (median [interquartile range 25/75]; age: 20.0 [19.3/21.0] y) were randomly allocated to percussive massage group (n = 12), foam roller group (n = 12), and control group (n = 12). First, a fatigue protocol targeting quadriceps femoris was performed. Then, participants received soft tissue mobilization with foam roller/percussive massage or rested for 10 minutes according to their groups. Pain and fatigue were evaluated by a visual analog scale, and the skin surface temperature of over the quadriceps femoris was measured with thermal camera imaging. Evaluations were performed at baseline, following fatigue protocol, at 24th hour, and at 48th hour. Changes from the baseline at 24th and 48th hours were compared between groups. Results: No significant between-group differences were observed at the assessments performed at 24th or 48th hour regarding the changes from baseline in pain (P value for 24th hour = .905, P value for 48th hour = .733), fatigue (P value for 24th hour = .895, P value for 48th hour = .606), or skin surface temperature measurements (P values for 24th hour = between .300 and .925, P values for 48th hour = between .311 and .750). Conclusions: Soft tissue mobilizations applied with foam roller or percussive massage device do not seem to be superior to passive resting in alleviating DOMS symptoms in recreational athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the potential relation between the retarded growth of skeletal muscle (SM) and dysbiosis of gut microbiota (GM) in children with asthma, and to explore the potential action mechanisms of traditional pediatric massage (TPM) from the perspective of regulating GM and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production by using an adolescent rat model of asthma. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 3weeks were divided randomly into the 5 groups (n=6~7) of control, ovalbumin (OVA), OVA + TPM, OVA + methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MP) and OVA + SCFAs. Pulmonary function (PF) was detected by whole body plethysmograph, including enhanced pause and minute ventilation. Airway allergic inflammation (AAI) status was assessed by concentrations of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E in plasma, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-1β in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid via ELISA assay. SM mass was assessed by using cross-sectional areas of diaphragm muscle and gastrocnemius via hematoxylin and eosin staining. GM and SCFAs production were detected by 16S rDNA sequencing and GC-MS, respectively. The protein and gene expressions of free fatty acid receptor 2 in SM were detected by using immunohistochemical staining and qRT-PCR, respectively. qRT-PCR was used to detect other relative gene expressions that were closely related with SM mass. The activity of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)/protein kinase B (PKB/AKT) pathway in SM was detected by western blotting test. Results: OVA exposure caused obvious AAI and poor PF in adolescent rats. OVA-exposed adolescent rats had a retarded growth of SM mass and inhibited activity of IGF-1/AKT pathway, which was related with GM dysbiosis, reduced SCFAs production and FFAR2 expressions in SM. TPM efficiently enhanced the SM mass, along with alleviating AAI and improving PF. TPM activated IGF-1/AKT pathway in SM, which was closely related with correcting GM dysbiosis, enhanced SCFAs production and FFAR2 expressions. Conclusion: The retarded growth of SM mass and inhibition of IGF-1/AKT pathway existed in OVA-exposed adolescent rats, which was related with GM dysbiosis, reduced SCFAs production and FFAR2 expressions in SM. TPM efficiently enhanced the SM mass, at least, partially via regulating GM, enhancing SCFAs production and activating FFAR2-IGF-1/AKT pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the efficacy of an eye massage device that uses acupressure points combined with natural sounds to reduce anxiety and pain in children receiving dental anesthesia for the first time. A total of 105 children aged between 8 and 10 years whose dental treatment required inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) injection participated in this randomized controlled clinical trial. The participants were randomly divided into three groups: Group A: eye massage with natural sounds; Group B: eye massage only; and Group C (control group): traditional behavior management techniques. Anxiety and pain were assessed before, during, and after anesthesia using the Children's Fear Scale (CFS), Wong-Baker pain rating scale (WBS), the Face-Legs-Activity-Cry-Consolability (FLACC) observational pain assessment scale, and pulse rate as a physiological scale. Anxiety and pain significantly decreased in groups A and B compared with those in the control group (p < 0.05), with group A showing a greater decrease in pulse rate and objective pain assessed during injection via the FLACC scale than group B (p < 0.05); however, no significant difference was noted between groups A and B regarding the data recorded after anesthesia using the WBS and CFS (p > 0.05). Changes in pulse rate and anxiety levels (CFS) measured before and after the procedure in each group revealed a significant decrease in fear and pulse rate in group A and no significant change in group B, whereas group C showed a significant increase in pulse rate and fear at the end of the procedure. Eye massage with natural sounds can effectively alleviate children's anxiety in the dental setting and reduce pain related to anesthesia, and the combination of these two interventions has the best relaxation effect on children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The significance of tactile stimulation in human social development and personal interaction is well documented; however, the underlying cerebral processes remain under-researched. This study employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the neural correlates of social touch processing, with a particular focus on the functional connectivity associated with the aftereffects of touch. Methods: A total of 27 experimental subjects were recruited for the study, all of whom underwent a 5-minute calf and foot massage prior to undergoing resting-state fMRI. Additionally, 11 healthy controls participated solely in the resting-state fMRI recording. A functional connectivity network analysis was conducted to examine the alterations in connections between different brain regions following massage. Results: The findings indicated the involvement of discrete neural networks in the processing of social touch, with notable discrepancies in functional connectivity observed between the experimental and control groups. The study revealed that the control group exhibited a higher degree of connectivity within a subnetwork comprising 25 connections and 23 nodes than the experimental group following the massage intervention. The experimental group showed hypoactivation in this subnetwork following the massage. The left anterior pulvinar thalamus and the right pregenual anterior cingulate cortex, which serve as the key hubs within this subnetwork, exhibited higher clustering and increased node strength in the control group. Relatively small and unequal sample sizes are the limitations of the study that may affect the generalizability of the results. Conclusions: These findings elucidate the neural underpinnings of tactile experiences and their potential impact on behavior and emotional state. Gaining insight into these mechanisms could inform therapeutic approaches that utilize touch to mitigate stress and enhance mental health. From a practical standpoint, our results have significant implications for the development of sensory stimulation strategies for patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness, sensory loss, autism spectrum disorders, or limited access to tactile interaction in their upper extremities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Working conditions for complementary and integrative healthcare occupations such as acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, midwives, and naturopathic doctors were poorly understood. Using O*NET data, we observed overall healthy working conditions, with the exception of high ergonomic hazards among massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists. Objective: The study aimed to describe working conditions among complementary and integrative healthcare (CIH) providers, specifically acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, midwives, and naturopathic doctors. Methods: We used cross-sectional Occupational Information Network data (2013–2021) for five CIH occupations. We examined means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for 10 variables that represented positive conditions, ergonomic demands, psychosocial demands, and schedule demands. We compared CIH to conventional healthcare and non-healthcare occupations. Results: CIH occupations had relatively high degrees of positive conditions, moderate degrees of psychosocial demands, and moderate hours/scheduling. Massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists reported more ergonomic hazards (eg, 1–5 scale where 5 is the highest, mean bending/twisting frequency for chiropractors is 3.43 [95% CI, 3.80–4.05] compared to 2.17 for midwives [95% CI, 1.97–2.36] and 1.96 for managers [95% CI, 1.42–2.51]). Conclusions: CIH occupations generally had healthy working conditions, although ergonomic hazards were prominent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Interstructural release (ISR) procedure to skeletal muscles is believed to attenuate adhesion between neighboring muscles and alleviate subjective symptoms, including perceived stiffness and associated pain. However, objective evidence about the effect of ISR on the mechanical properties of the muscles is limited. The purpose of this study was to test the acute effect of ISR on the shear modulus of adjacent muscles. It was hypothesized that ISR applied to the border between synergistic muscles would acutely reduce the resting shear modulus of the involved muscle. Methods: To assess the effect of ISR, the shear modulus of the resting peroneus longus (PL) and soleus (SOL) muscles was measured at various ankle joint positions (inversion/eversion) before and after interventions in nine nonsymptomatic male individuals (age: 21.9 ± 1.4 yr, height: 170 ± 6.6 cm, body mass: 64.3 ± 4.0 kg). Potential muscle activity during the measurement was assessed by recording surface electromyogram from these muscles. The interventions were ISR to the lower leg between the deep fascia of the PL and SOL and sham (massage). Results: As the ankle joint position was passively varied toward inversion, the shear modulus increased substantially in PL and decreased moderately in SOL. Shear modulus of the proximal PL in the most inverted position increased acutely after ISR (by 11.4 ± 5.8%, P <0.001), but not after the sham, without any change in the amplitude of electromyogram. Conclusions: These results provide objective evidence that the ISR procedure can acutely alter shear modulus, at least in a specific site in a resting muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effect of hand massage on pain, emotional symptoms, and physiological parameters in children after abdominal surgery. Materials and methods: The study included 40 children aged 7–12 years who underwent abdominal surgery (20 intervention, 20 control). Data were collected using the Faces Pain Scale-Revised, Children's Emotion Manifestation Scale, Physiological Measurements Chart, and Child Information Form. The intervention group received a 10-min hand massage 3 h after surgery, and measurements were taken before the massage, immediately after the massage, and 30 min after the massage. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann–Whitney U, Friedman, and Bonferroni tests. Results: Immediately after the massage, the pain and emotional manifestation scores were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups at the third measurement (p = 0.478). Heart rate significantly decreased in the intervention group immediately after the massage (p < 0.001), while it significantly increased in the control group (p < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This doctoral study examined the function of baby massage in supporting early infant-carer attachment relationships among families facing stressful life experiences. It was designed in response to Bennett, Underdown and Barlow's [Bennett, C., A. Underdown, and J. Barlow. 2013. "Massage for Promoting Mental and Physical Health in Typically Developing Infants Under the Age of Six Months [Online]." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (4): 1–162] meta-analysis of studies examining the effects of baby massage on infant health, and their recommendation that further research focused on the outcomes for families they described as 'higher risk'. Analysis of the available literature also identified a lack of fine-grained research foregrounding families' experiences of infant massage. This qualitative project was located in the constructivist paradigm, using a praxeological case study methodology. Innovative techniques and participatory methods were used including an information video and film as a data source and reflective stimulus; approaches which engaged babies and carers as co-inquirers in the research. It also required a robust ethical framework; a 'matrix' of approaches to informed consent [Rouse, E. J. 2018. "How Infant Massage Enhances Pedagogical Attachment in Families Facing Challenging Circumstances." PhD diss., University of Wolverhampton]. This paper positions video as a method that supports detailed observations of young babies and foregrounds their 'voices' in the research. It contributes a detailed account of the benefits, challenges and ethical considerations around using video, and argues that it can support adults who care for and work with young children to have a deepened understanding of infant communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand massage is a massage technique on the hands that is done to relax the mind and reduce or eliminate pain. Anxiety is a person's condition caused by several factors, so that it can cause fear and worry. Objective: This activity aims to know the effectiveness of hand massage on reducing anxiety in elderly people with hypertension. Method: Community service includes 1) Pre test; 2) implementation of activities; 3) Post test. The method used is a combination of counseling using poster media and demonstration of hand massage to people with hypertension. This activity was carried out on May 16, 2024 at the Mental Love Nursing Home located in Turi Village, Turi District, Lamongan Regency, with 27 elderly people. Results: There was a significant reduction in anxiety and blood pressure levels in the elderly after hand massage. Conclusion: This activity has a significant positive impact on the physical and mental health of elderly people with hypertension. The hand massage techniques provided are anticipated to be utilized by the elderly in various nursing homes or senior communities, hence extending their benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Journal of Acupuncture & Tuina Science is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Acupuncture & Tuina Science is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Acupuncture & Tuina Science is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Health Sciences / Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Erciyes Universitesi Saglik Bilimleri Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: With the widespread use of electronic devices, visual fatigue has become a prevalent issue in modern society. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as facial massage and exercise, have been proposed as effective methods for alleviating visual fatigue. However, the specific effects and mechanisms behind these interventions require further exploration. Objectives: This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of facial massage and exercise in reducing visual fatigue and to explore the underlying mechanisms of these interventions. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials and crossover experiments were included for both quantitative and qualitative analyses of relevant studies. Results: The findings suggest that both facial massage and exercise can reduce visual fatigue. Facial massage alleviates eye strain by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, relaxing muscles, and improving blood circulation. Exercise alleviates visual fatigue through two mechanisms: (1) enhancing overall blood circulation, reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and overall health; (2) directly exercising eye muscles through eye yoga, which helps relieve visual fatigue. Conclusions: Preliminary research indicates that facial massage, full-body exercise, and eye yoga hold potential as nonpharmacological interventions for visual fatigue. Eye yoga has experimental support for its ability to strengthen eye muscles and improve focus. Massage stimulates parasympathetic activity and boosts blood circulation, while full-body exercise enhances systemic circulation to relieve eye fatigue. Future research should focus on investigating the mechanisms of these interventions in more detail and comparing the effects of various types, intensities, and durations to provide more precise clinical recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) impacts quality of life and healthcare reliance. Objectives: We systematically reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of plant extracts to treat CLBP according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Methods: Four databases (i.e., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library) were searched for published studies. We searched databases up to July 2024. Seven RCTs were analyzed. The study has been registered in PROSPERO (number: CRD 42024570674). Results: Plant extracts alone or combined with massage significantly reduced pain, particularly when applied to multiple meridian points. Conclusion: Plant extracts are a promising nonpharmacological treatment option for CLBP. One potential mechanism is through their interaction with multiple meridian pathways, which may enhance pain relief. This possible relationship between meridian involvement and therapeutic efficacy warrants further investigation to better understand the long-term benefits and underlying mechanisms of plant extract therapy.

In this study, it was aimed to examine the effects of oxidant-antioxidant status and massage applicati on swith opium oil on some blood values. After the study, the question of whether opium oil can be used as aromatrapic massage oil was sought to be answered. Necessary permissions were obtained before the research. Thirty healthy women between the ages of 18-25 participated in thestudy. Participants in the study were applied as liquid (10 people) Vaseline (10 people) and the control group (10 people) for 8 weeks, 3 days a week for an average of 30-40 minutes. The fatty acids of the opium oil to be used before the massage were analyzed. Blood was drawn forthe 4th time from the participants in all groups: 1 day before and after the 1st session in the 1st week, after 12 sessions in the 4th week, and after the 24th session in the 8th week. Biochemical, hematological parameters, DNA damage, andsome vitamin values were analyzed from blood samples. Covariance analysis was used by making normality distribution in statistical analysis. Tukey-Kramer test was used for group differences. The level of significance was set at p 0.05. There were statistically significant differences in biochemical and hematological values between the groups (p

Context: Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a popular myofascial treatment utilized by health care professionals. Currently, there is a lack of research on the effects of a light pressure IASTM treatment on the forearm region. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a light pressure IASTM technique at different application rates on grip strength and muscle stiffness. This study was considered exploratory with the goal of establishing methodology for future controlled studies. Design: Observational pretest and posttest clinical study. Methods: Twenty-six healthy adults underwent one light pressure IASTM treatment to their dominant forearm muscles. Participants were allocated to 2 groups of 13 based upon treatment rate: 60 beats per minute and 120 beats per minute. Participants were tested pretreatment and posttreatment for grip strength and tissue stiffness via diagnostic ultrasound. One-way analyses of covariance were used to assess group differences posttreatment for grip strength and tissue stiffness. Results: Statistically significant posttreatment changes for grip strength and tissue stiffness were not found. Despite the nonstatistical significance, there were small decreases in grip strength and tissue stiffness. Faster (120 beats/min) IASTM application may have produced clinically meaningful decreases in grip strength along with a small decrease in tissue stiffness. Conclusions: This report helps to establish methodology for future controlled studies on this topic. Sports medicine professionals should consider these results as exploratory and interpret them with caution. Future research is needed to confirm these findings and begin to postulate possible neurophysiological mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) is a common upper extremity musculoskeletal condition in the working population, often leading to prolonged work absences. This study assesses and contrasts the impacts of Mulligan mobilization (MWM) and transverse friction massage in individuals with RCS. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted at Northwest General Hospital and Research Centre in Peshawar from January to June 2023. The trial involved 42 participants in the age range of 30 and 70 years who had grade I/II rotator cuff tear and pain. These participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A was administered MWM, while group B received transverse friction massage in addition to standard care. Both groups received a six-week treatment and were evaluated at the beginning, third and sixth weeks using the visual analogue scale to measure pain, goniometry to assess shoulder range, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire to evaluate physical function. Results: The between-group comparison showed a significant difference in VAS, shoulder ranges, and DASH scores in both groups in the third and sixth weeks (P

Qiuyi Chen,&ast; Mina Wang,&ast; Feiyu Fu,&ast; Limin Nie, Quan Miao, Luopeng Zhao, Lu Liu, Bin Li Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Bin Li; Lu Liu, Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, No. 23 Meishuguan Houjie, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 18910781852 ; +86 13520788752, Email libin@bjzhongyi.com; lululalavictor1985@126.comAbstract: Migraine is a common neurological illness that causes a great burden on individuals and society. Many migraine patients seek relief through complementary and alternative therapies, with Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) often being their preferred choice. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and massage are important components of TCM, and are commonly used in clinical treatment of migraine. This review aims to consolidate the current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of the three TCM interventions for migraine: acupuncture, herbs, and massage, and how they relieve pain. However, the mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of TCM therapies in treating migraine remain unclear. Therefore, we reviewed the research progress on acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage as TCM approaches for the treatment of migraine. We conducted a comprehensive search of CNKI, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases using keywords such as migraine, acupuncture, needle, herbs, herbal, prescription, decoction, massage, Tuina, and TCM, covering the period from 2000 to 2023. The literature included in the review was selected based on specified exclusion criteria. We discussed the mechanism of TCM therapies on migraine from the perspective of modern medicine, focusing on changes in inflammatory factors, neurotransmitters, and other relevant biomarkers. TCM can relieve migraine by decreasing neuropeptide levels, inhibiting inflammation, modulating neuronal sensitization, changing brain function and structure, changing blood brain barrier permeability, regulating hormone levels, and relieving muscle tension. The purpose of this paper is to provide a basis for improving the clinical strategies of TCM for the treatment of migraine.Keywords: traditional Chinese medicine, migraine, acupuncture, herbs, massage, mechanism

Amaç: Masajın romatolojik hastalıklarda semptom kontrolüne yönelik etkisini değerlendirmektir. Yöntemler: Araştırmaya CINAHL, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science ve ULAKBİM veri tabanlarında İngilizce ve Türkçe anahtar kelimeler kullanılarak, 2000- 2023 tarihleri arasında ulaşılan çalışmalar dahil edildi. Araştırma PRISMA-P kontrol listesi ve Cochrane Risk of Bias temel alınarak hazırlandı. Dahil edilme kriterleri; 18 yaş ve üzeri, romatolojik hastalığa bağlı semptom bildiren katılımcıları dahil eden, randomize kontrollü çalışma tasarımında olan, İngilizce ve Türkçe dilinde yayınlanmış çalışmalardır. Bulgular: Araştırmada 3.704 çalışma incelendi ve dahil edilme kriterlerine uygun 16 randomize kontrollü çalışma saptandı. Yapılan masajın ağrı şiddeti, analjezik kullanımı, anksiyete, depresif durum, sabah tutukluğunu azalttığı, uyku kalitesi ve hareket açıklığını arttırdığı saptandı. Derlemeye dahil edilen bir araştırmada masajın uyku sorunlarını azaltmadığı, iki farklı çalışmada ise uzun vadede masajın semptom yönetiminde fayda sağlamadığı belirlendi.Sonuç: Romatolojik hastalıkların semptom kontrolünde kullanılan masaja yönelik optimal bir süre ve teknik bulunmamakla birlikte, masaj sıklıkla osteoartrit ve fibromiyaljide kullanılmaktadır. Masaj uygulaması semptom kontrolü sağlayarak hastaların fizyolojik ve psikolojik iyilik halini arttırmaktadır. Bu nedenle semptom kontrolünde hemşirelik bakım uygulamalarında masaja yer verilmesi önerilmektedir.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of retinal massage combined with autologous blood covering in the treatment of persistent macular holes following vitrectomy in eyes with high myopia. Settings and Design: Retrospective, consecutive case series in a tertiary eye center. Methods: A total of 12 highly myopic eyes with persistent macular holes after vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling received combined retinal massage, air/fluid exchange, autologous blood covering, and gas/silicone oil tamponade. Best-corrected visual acuity, axial length, and optical coherence tomographic images before and after the treatment were compared. Results: The mean hole diameter before this intervention was 931.58 ± 244.58 μm (range, 508–1270), and the axial length was 30.39 ± 2.13 mm (range, 27.08–34.64). During the 6-month follow-up period, hole closure was achieved in eight eyes (66.67%). The mean best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly from 1.40 ± 0.50 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) at baseline to 1.10 ± 0.30 logMAR (P < 0.05). No complications were observed. Conclusions: Combined retinal massage and autologous blood covering, which is easy to manipulate, can promote the closure of persistent macular holes after vitrectomy and improve vision in high myopia with an axial length less than 29 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vocal manual therapy (VMT) is a heterogenous term used to describe a variety of touch-based approaches to voice rehabilitation and maintenance. VMT aims to use manipulation, massage, and reposturing to change how the voice sounds and feels. Since first described in 1990, there has been a proliferation in the use of VMT in the treatment of voice problems, with increasing interest in its usefulness within clinical and non-clinical voice settings. This forum article presents a narrative review of 42 studies investigating the use of VMT in a vocal health context. The aim was to identify the theoretical orientations of VMT protocols, draw links between the techniques employed in their administration, and highlight similarities and differences in use of language across VMT protocols. Relevant articles for review were identified via informal literature search using forward and backward citation screening and then described using narrative synthesis. Theoretical orientations were broad and influenced by speech pathology research as well as Finnish massage, naprapathy and yoga. 26 ostensibly different protocols were identified across the 42 studies, with considerable variation in protocol length and frequency. Language was highly varied across protocols. The forum article therefore advocates for greater shared understanding in VMT research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of tissue flossing on athletic performance measures. A secondary aim was to explore the efficacy of tissue flossing when applied to a joint or soft tissue (i.e., muscle belly) on athletic performance measures. An article search was completed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, EBSCO, SCOPUS, and OneSearch electronic databases up to May 2024. Studies were included if they used tissue flossing as a primary intervention among healthy participants and used one or more athletic performance measures as an outcome. Exclusion criteria included studies that did not investigate tissue flossing on athletic performance measures among healthy participants, studies that used tissue flossing for blood flow restriction training, case studies, narrative reviews, dissertations, conference proceedings, and papers written in a language other than English. Eighteen articles and 559 total participants were included in the final analysis. Study quality was assessed by two independent reviewers using the Downs and Black Checklist and the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine. The major findings suggest that a single tissue flossing treatment ranging from 2 to 10 min that includes active single joint or active closed chain exercises may enhance post-intervention muscle strength, jump performance, and balance up to 45 to 60 min post-intervention. Tissue flossing to a joint or soft tissue both produced mixed results among studies, a definitive answer on which technique is superior cannot be determined at this time. Further direct comparison studies are needed for these two techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Conclusions Carotid sinus syndrome (CSS), characterized by exaggerated vagal responses leading to asystolic pauses with carotid sinus massage (CSM), often necessitates pacemaker implantation. This study investigates cardioneuroablation (CNA) as an alternative strategy for CSS.Prospective study of consecutive patients referred for CNA due to CSS. All patients underwent CSM, atropine test and 24‐h Holter monitoring before the procedure and at 6 months. The primary objective was the absence of any cardioinhibitory response to CSM following CNA. Secondary objectives included the combined endpoint of syncope and presyncope‐free survival, pacemaker‐free survival, differences in heart rate variation (HRV), as well as differences in the pre‐ and postprocedure atropine tests and in the SF‐36 quality‐of‐life questionnaire.A total of 13 consecutive patients (84.6% male, mean age 63.8 ± 12.3 years) were included. CSM revealed a symptomatic asystolic pause in all patients before CNA (7.3 [5.6–10.5] s). After the procedure, all the patients had a negative CSM, and only one patient (7.7%) had a positive CSM at 6 months. After a median follow‐up of 11.2 (10.6–16.3) months, syncope or presyncope‐free survival was 84.6%, and none required pacemaker implantation. There was an improvement in the energy and health change items in the SF‐36 questionnaire. There was a reduction in HR increase in the atropine test at 6 months (pre‐CNA: 66% [52–84] vs. post‐CNA 26.0% (19.8–29.3]; p = .008) and in HRV parameters.In this proof‐of‐efficacy study, performed in patients affected by asystolic CSS, CNA was effective in reducing the rate of cardioinhibitory responses, suggesting a potential efficacy in also reducing syncopal recurrences. Controlled trials are warranted to corroborate clinical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Menopause is one of the most critical stages of women's life. During this period, due to the decrease in the level of hormones in the body, women experience many changes including sleep disorders. Massage as one of the complementary treatments reduces stress and improves sleep quality. The present study was conducted with aim to investigate the effect of foot massage on the sleep quality of postmenopausal women. Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was conducted in 2021 on74 postmenopausal women who referred to the health and treatment center of Selseleh city in Lorestan province. The samples were randomly divided into two groups of intervention and control (n=37 in each group). The data collection tools were the demographic questionnaire and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). For the intervention group, massage was performed for 2 months every night for 30 minutes (15minutes for each foot) by a family member, and the control group had no intervention. Data were collected at the beginning of the study and after the intervention. Data analysis was done using SPSS statistical software (version 24) and paired t test, ANCOVA, and Chi square tests. P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean total sleep quality score at the beginning of the study in the intervention group was 13.93±2.42 and the control group was 14.47±2.42 that had no statistically significant difference (P=0.467). But at the end of the study, a significant difference was observed between the mean total sleep quality score in the intervention group (10.06±2.21) and the control group (15.10±2.57) (P<0.0001). Conclusion: Foot massage is effective in improving the sleep quality of menopausal women, so it is suggested to teach foot massage to improve the quality of sleep in menopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The naturalness and safety of human-computer interaction have always been primary research focuses in the field of human-computer interaction. This paper proposes a multimodal intention understanding algorithm (MIUIC), which incorporates comfort analysis, as a solution to address the issues of low intention understanding rate, weak interaction, and weak collaboration that are often observed in most massage systems. The algorithm efficiently fuses multimodal data based on objective implicit information to address the challenge of low intention understanding rates caused by non-standard expression of natural behavior. Moreover, this algorithm incorporates comfort reasoning to detect and address intentions related to security threats while providing the ability for robots to make behavioral decisions through inverse active interaction, leading to more equitable human-robot interactions. To test the validity and safety of the MIUIC algorithm, we embedded the algorithm into a mechanical arm massage system. Subsequently, 45 elderly volunteers were invited to participate in experimental tests. Finally, to verify the validity and safety of the MIUIC algorithm, we assessed the algorithm in terms of four aspects, including multimodal intention recognition rate, the ability to reduce data dispersion, the intention enhancement rate under reverse human-machine interaction, and the rate of avoiding dangerous intentions. In conclusion, the MIUIC algorithm enhances the intention understanding rate and promotes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are adverse effects on the health outcomes of workers whose occupation involves prolonged standing, such as lower back pain, leg pain, cardiovascular diseases, fatigue, discomfort, and pregnancy-related health outcomes. The effectiveness of massage therapy as an intervention for managing leg pain associated with prolonged standing needs to be addressed. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the smart dynamic fabric actuator's effectiveness in treating chronic musculoskeletal leg pain in persons with occupations involving prolonged standing. Setting: Tertiary care hospital. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Thirty participants with chronic leg pain satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria participated in the study. The intervention group used the device for 15 minutes for each leg once a day and stretching exercises twice a day for six weeks. The control group performed stretching exercises twice a day for six weeks. The outcome was assessed at baseline, three weeks, and six weeks with a Numeric Rating Scale for pain and fatigue, short form-McGill Pain Questionnaire for pain, and SF-36 for quality of life. Statistical Analysis: The groups were compared using the two-sample t -test with equal variances, the two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and the Chi2 exact test as appropriate. Results: Thirty medical (nursing officers and doctors) and nonmedical professionals (security guards and sales assistants) with a mean age of 32.9 ± 5.6 years (intervention group) and 36.2 ± 5.1 years (control group) participated in the study. At six weeks, a significant improvement in pain (4.80 ± 1.14 to 1.66 ± 1.04 vs 4.66 ± 0.89 to 2.6 ± 0.91, P = 0.014), quality of life (58.77 ± 9.06 to 71.76 ± 8.43 vs 51.39 ± 8.26 to 63.87 ± 7.61, P = 0.012), and reduced fatigue (5 to 2 vs 5 to 3, P = 0.003) was observed in the intervention group when compared with the control group. No adverse events were observed. Conclusion: A smart dynamic fabric actuator can be used as an adjunct to exercises for reducing leg pain and fatigue associated with prolonged standing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]