Scientists probe the perfect pressure: how hard should a massage really be?
NCT ID NCT07393815
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study will test how different intensities and patterns of manual pressure on the upper back affect heart rate, stress hormones, and pain sensitivity in 90 healthy adults. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either sustained pressure at a single point, kneading along the muscle, or three standard massage techniques. The goal is to understand the body's dose-response to pressure, which could lead to safer and more personalized manual therapy.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Manual pressure (graded sustained pressure, longitudinal kneading, and manual therapy protocols including lymphatic drainage and light/moderate-pressure massage)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help therapists choose safer and more effective pressure levels for treatments like massage, reducing risk of injury.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study in healthy people, not patients. Results may not apply to real-world therapy or those with pain conditions.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Universidad Europea de Madrid
Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
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