The Impact of Relaxation Massage Before Bedtime on Sleep Quality and Quantity.

Summary

Manual massage is an effective treatment approach for reducing general stress and promoting an overall sense of wellbeing. Relaxation massage aims to alleviate psychophysiological tension, enhance both blood and lymphatic circulation, and promote mental and physical relaxation. It is particularly beneficial for those with anxiety-related symptoms (such as generalized anxiety dis-order, social anxiety) and sleep disorders, aiming to improve calmness and promote sleepiness. The purpose of the present study is to assess the effectiveness of a single session of relaxation massage prior to bed-time on sleep quality and quantity indices, in individuals with symptoms of chronic insomnia.

Conditions

• Massage

Interventions

OTHER

Massage

A relaxation type of massage will be used as the main massage intervention in this study. This technique is designed to promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. It is characterized by the use of five primary techniques performed on the full body, including the palms and feet. Specifically, these techniques consist of effleurage (long, gliding strokes), petrissage (kneading and squeezing), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), friction (deep, circular rubbing), and vibration or shaking movements (Table 1). In addition to these, the technique also incorporates rhythmic movements and deep light pressure to enhance relaxation and alleviate tension. It is designed to promote relaxation, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, improve flexibility and promote relaxation and reduce pain. The total duration of the Relaxation massage is 45 minutes.

OTHER

Sham (No Treatment)

The Sham massage (PLA) will be used as a control session, without applying the deeper techniques that characterize the Relaxation massage in order to eliminate the influence of the human touch sensation on the participant's skin. This massage consisted only of superficial oil application movements over the entire body, without any added pressure or deep muscle manipulation. Oil was used to facilitate smooth gliding, mimicking the sensation of a full massage, but without the intensity or techniques aimed at muscle tissue relaxation. The total duration of the sham massage is 45 minutes.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• University of Nicosia

  collaborator OTHER

• University of Thessaly

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Giorgos Sakkas, PhD · University of Thessaly

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Masking

DOUBLE

Model

CROSSOVER

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

45 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2024-09-09

Primary Completion

2025-01-06

Completion

2025-01-10

Countries

• Greece

Study Locations