Tui Na Massage Alleviates Post-Stroke Spasticity - HealthCMi

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A recent multicenter randomized controlled trial demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of Tui Na, a traditional Chinese massage therapy, in reducing spasticity among post-stroke patients. Tui Na adheres to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on stimulating acupuncture channels and points to restore balance and promote healing.

The trial included 90 patients with post-stroke spasticity. Participants were randomly assigned to either a Tui Na therapy group or a control group receiving placebo Tui Na, which involved gentle rubbing. Both groups underwent their respective treatments for 20 to 25 minutes per limb, once daily, five days a week, over four weeks, alongside conventional rehabilitation. Research institutions included Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou Industrial Park Loufeng Hospital, and Taixing Chinese Medicine Hospital [1].

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Patients receiving Tui Na therapy experienced a significant reduction in spasticity, particularly in the elbow flexors, wrist flexors, knee flexors, and knee extensors, compared to the control group. These improvements were sustained at a three-month follow-up, suggesting long-term benefits. No adverse reactions were reported, highlighting the safety of Tui Na therapy in this patient population.

The study implemented several specific Tui Na manipulations to address muscle spasticity:

• Pressing: Steady pressure was applied to targeted muscle groups to promote relaxation.
• Kneading: Circular movements were used to enhance blood circulation and reduce muscle tightness.
• Rolling: Rhythmic rolling motions helped soothe and elongate affected muscles.
• Grasping: Gentle lifting and squeezing were employed to alleviate tension and improve muscle elasticity

This study indicates that Tui Na massage is a safe and effective treatment for reducing spasticity in post-stroke patients. The findings support the integration of Tui Na into rehabilitation programs to enhance motor function recovery [1]. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to validate these results and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Yang, Yu-jie, Jun Zhang, Ying Hou, Bao-yin Jiang, Hua-fei Pan, Jian Wang, Da-yong Zhong, Hai-ying Guo, Yi Zhu, and Jie Cheng. "Effectiveness and safety of Chinese massage therapy (Tui Na) on post-stroke spasticity: a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial." Clinical rehabilitation 31, no. 7 (2017): 904-912.