Chair Massage and Hypertension

A couple of nights ago, I gave Chair Massage to a small group of caregivers. They were attending stress -reducing seminars to help them deal with their ever- growing patient load.

They were also having their blood pressure taken, as part of the evening's activities. I asked to try an experiment. BP was taken before and after Chair Massage. Some participants lowered as many as 5 points after Chair Massage. I went further to check pressure of people just watching the process... even their's had lowered.

Of course, we know that Massage is not for everyone with certain medical conditions, but, some research has been done. Studies show, it works! *A study conducted at Bowling Green State University "elevated the effectiveness of a 15- minute on-site Chair Massage on reducing stress as indicated by blood pressure." Fifty-two participants were given a 15-minute massage; their blood pressures were measured before and after the massage. After receiving the massage, analysis showed a "significant reduction" in their blood pressure.


*"As always, any chronic or acute medical condition should be brought to the attention of the practitioner. That way, they'll know the best way to relax you, and to make your experience...well... just what the Dr. ordered!"
*Cady, S. H. and G. E. Jones. “Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress.” Perceptual & Motor Skills 84.1 (Feb. 1997): 157-8.