The Association for Professional Therapists

Pain Massage

Qualified Therapist : Professional Therapy

Clinical experience and research tell us that massage therapy aids in the treatment of acute pain and prevention and management of chronic pain

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READ the Research

To manage pain

Use a Qualified Therapist

When delivered by a qualified remedial massage therapist or myotherapist, massage can lead to real therapeutic outcomes. Massage can also be an effective compliment to other therapies. This is supported by research studies which are summarised below.

However, a massage from a friend, or a massage from an unqualified person should not be confused with professional massage therapy delivered by a qualified therapist. The human body is a complex system which is why remedial message therapists and myotherapists must have the appropriate professional qualifications and competencies to provide therapeutic benefits.

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Find a Qualified Remedial Massage Therapist or Myotherapist

Look for the Massage & Myotherapy Australia logo when you choose a remedial massage therapist or myotherapist. Search for a qualified massage therapist or myotherapist on the Australian Massage Directory.

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Who are Qualified Therapists?

Qualified therapists are members of Massage & Myotherapy Australia who are required to hold one or more qualifications. These qualifications ensure the therapist has the competencies and knowledge to provide effective remedial massage and myotherapy services. Members are therapist required to undertake on-going professional development, including first aid to ensure the quality of service remains high.

What the research and clinical experience tells us

Improvement Across 233 Studies

A systematic review of 233 studies, showed massage improved pain and function in chronic low back pain. Massage provided long-lasting benefits, reduced medication use, and lowered the cost of subsequent care.

Improved Pain, Function & Range of Motion

There is evidence that suggests soft tissue massage is effective for improving pain, function and range of motion in patients with shoulder pain18 and neck pain.

Improved Chronic Neck Pain

Stretching exercises and massage applied to the combined sternocleidomastoid muscle, together with conventional physiotherapy, can reduce pain and disability, increase range of motion and endurance in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Improved Chronic Lower Back Pain

Results provide a meaningful signal of massage effect for primary care patients with chronic low back pain.

Effective with Qualified Therapist

Massage was most effective when combined with education and exercise, and when administered by a qualified therapist.

Improved Knee Pain

Massage and manual therapy was shown to lead to improvements in pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Significantly Lower Pain

Women who had consulted with a massage therapist five or more times had a significantly lower score on the bodily pain.

Improved Pain, Stiffness & Function

A group receiving massage therapy demonstrated significant improvements in measurements of pain, stiffness and physical function.

Recommended for Pain Management

A group receiving massage Based on the evidence, massage therapy, compared to no treatment, should be strongly recommended as a pain management option.

Improved Post-Operative Pain

Massage therapy has been shown to improved post-operative pain and anxiety in acute care settings.

Musculoskeletal Massage

Find out about massage for musculoskeletal issues

Injury Rehab Massage

Find out about massage for injury rehab

Pregnancy Massage

Find out about pregnancy massage

Massage for Emotional Well-being

Find out about massage for emotional well-being

Want to Become a Massage & Myotherapy Australia Member?

If you are interested in a career as a massage therapist or myotherapist find out becoming a Massage & Myotherapy Australia member on our website.

find out about membership