Robot hands vs. human hands: mayo clinic pits EMMA massager against real therapists
NCT ID NCT07042776
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 4 times
Summary
This study at Mayo Clinic compares a new electronic massager called EMMA to a standard massage from a licensed therapist. Twenty adults will receive both types of back massage and report which they prefer. The goal is to see if the robot is practical and satisfying enough to use regularly.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- electronic massager (EMMA)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could show that a robotic massager is a practical and satisfying alternative to a human massage therapist.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early feasibility study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The robot may not match the comfort or skill of a human therapist.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Mayo Clinic
Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States
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