Deep Tissue Massage . . . Reduce Blood Pressure?

In a recent Study done by the Health Sciences Center, Louisiana State University deep tissue massage was found to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. The study consisted of 263 participants, 12% males and 88% females and the average age was 48. All of the participants had experienced moderate to severe muscle pain and spasm.

Each of the participants received after extensive pre-checks, and a baseline was established , a 45 to 60 minute massage. After the massage checks were done again and compared with the first baseline.

The data collected from the study showed the average systolic pressure reduction of 10.4 millimeters, a diastolic pressure reduction of 5.3 millimeters and a mean araterial pressure reduction of 7.0 millimeters. Results of the heart-rate data showed an average heart rate reduction of 10.8 beats per minute.

This study demonstrates a high correlation between deep-tissue massage and the reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. The information produced from this study is encouraging and a positive, representing optimism and a hopeful outlook for future research.