Clinical Application of Therapeutic Massage (Using the ACE Star Model*)
with Persons Dealing with Multiple Chronic Conditions
Maria Kuhn, M.A., M.S., N.C.C., L.P.C.
Karen Curtin, R.N., B.S., C.C.M., C.D.M.S.
Christina Miles Krause, PhD.
Christopher S. Jones, PhD.
Integrated Health Advocacy Program
Problem:
There is a need to implement and evaluate the application of therapeutic massage with patients dealing with multiple chronic conditions. Previous research indicates that massage is an effective treatment modality for individuals with a single illness; however, researchers have not examined the effectiveness of this therapeutic approach on individuals with multiple chronic illnesses.
Evidence:
Outcomes were assessed through emotional, physical, behavioral and pain measurements both from patients and their massage therapists.
Strategy:
Protocols were set, utilizing both the ACE Star Model* and a previous synthesis of research evidence that support the effectiveness of therapeutic massage.
Practice Change:
Massage treatment was set at 6 to 18 months. Prior studies examined the effectiveness of massage therapy with patients dealing with one chronic condition and limited treatment from 6 to 8 weeks. This study applies massage therapy to individuals with multiple chronic illnesses and extends the duration of therapeutic massage treatment.
Evaluation:
Patients reported a reduction in their pain and stress, as well as, a decrease in their use of medication, and an increase in physical and emotional mobility.
Recommendation:
Overall, individuals respond to more aggressive protocols of massage therapy. Therefore, it is recommended that massage therapy be used for individuals who are dealing with multiple chronic conditions.
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Academic Center for Evidence-Based Nursing