Massage recomended for children with Cystic Fibrosis

A national guidline clearing house (WWW.guidlines.gov) MAJOR RECOMMENDATIONS The strength of the recommendation (strongly It is recommended that massage therapy be used in youth with cystic fibrosis (CF) based on findings outlined in the Table in the original guideline document (Hernandez-Reif et al., 1999 [2a]; Field et al., 1998 [2b]; Robertson et al., 1984 [2b]; Witt & MacKinnon, 1986 [4a]; Lee et al., 2009 [4b]; McQueen, Button, & Heathcote, 2003 [4b]; Beeken et al., 1998 [4b]). Note: There is insufficient evidence to recommend any specific frequency, type, or duration of massage therapy over another. Higher-level evidence reported that parent-administered massage resulted in decreased child and parent anxiety with improved child mood and peak airflow (Hernandez-Reif et al., 1999 [2a]) and decreased anxiety with improved breathing (Field et al, 1998 [2b]). The remaining studies included adults with CF, asthma or other chronic lung disease. All but one (Robertson et al., 1984 [2b]) reported positive findings related to the benefits of massage on improving quality of life (as defined above). It is recommended that further research be done on the effects of massage therapy on improving quality of life in youth with CF (using a valid and reliable quality of life tool) (Local Consensus [5]). For more information on this subject please go to: 

POTENTIAL BENEFITS

The potential benefits of massage therapy on individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and other chronic pulmonary conditions include: decreased pain, muscle tightness, and anxiety; improved mood, breathing, pulmonary function, muscle strength, sleep, relaxation, energy, ability to perform activities of daily living, and improved overall sense of well being. 

POTENTIAL HARMS

One study described mild discomfort from deep tissue work.

For more Information go to:

http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?ss=15&doc_id=14578&nbr=7252