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Office Massage Effects on HRV and Stress
Sponsor: Riga Stradins University
Summary
This study is a randomized controlled trial designed to investigate which of three short office massage types (head, neck/shoulder area, or hand) is most effective for reducing chronic stress in women who perform sedentary office work. Many sedentary female office employees experience long-term tension and work-related strain, which can affect the body's ability to recover. The investigators are testing whether a 15-minute massage, performed twice a week for four weeks, can help restore balance within the body. The investigators will evaluate the impact of these massages using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)-an objective measure that shows how well the body manages stress (autonomic nervous system balance)-as well as analyzing participants' self-reported levels of perceived stress, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Participants receiving massage will be compared to a control group engaging in quiet rest.
Official title: Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Three Different 15-Minute Office Massage Types (Head, Cervical Area, Hand) on Autonomic Nervous System Balance and Chronic Stress Reduction Using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
140
Start Date
2026-01-05
Completion Date
2027-04
Last Updated
2025-12-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Head Massage Intervention
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Cervical Area Massage Intervention
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Hand Massage Intervention
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Quiet Rest Control
Participants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work.