The effects of massage as a method to prevent pressure ulcers. A review of the literature

• Published in: Ostomy/wound management Vol. 51; no. 4; pp. 70 - 80
• Main Authors: Duimel-Peeters, Inge G P, Halfens, Ruud J G, Berger, Martijn P F, Snoeckx, Luc H E H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.04.2005
• Subjects: Humans; Immunity; Massage - methods; Nursing; Pressure Ulcer - immunology; Pressure Ulcer - physiopathology; Pressure Ulcer - prevention & control; Regional Blood Flow; Skin - blood supply
• ISSN: 0889-5899; 1943-2720

General information about the effects of massage to prevent pressure ulcers is limited. A literature search was conducted to provide more detailed knowledge about the effects of massage in general and in preventing the development of pressure ulcers in particular. Using the keywords massage, rubbing, prevention of pressure ulcers/pressure ulcers, and paying particular attention to referenced articles yielded a summary of different manual massage techniques and indications/contraindications of this intervention for both healthy tissues and tissues in patients at risk for developing pressure ulcers. A careful review of this information; the clinical, physical, and pathophysiological aspects of pressure ulcers, including extrinsic and intrinsic factor; and the time-pressure relationship suggests that one type of massage may be beneficial for persons who are at risk for developing pressure ulcers. Specifically, effleurage applied with moderate pressure is the most preferred massage in the treatment of pressure ulcers, although based on currently existing studies, it cannot be proven statistically that massage is an adequate preventive method for pressure ulcers. Although many guidelines advised against use of massage in people at risk for pressure ulcers, current evidence suggests that research to increase knowledge about the mechanism behind the effects of massage as part of an individualized prevention and treatment plan should be conducted.