Massage

Discussion

Two studies found the massage was effective in reducing symptoms of depression post SCI (Chase et al. 2013; Diego et al. 2002). Diego et al. (2002) found that participants who received twice weekly massage for 5 weeks had greater reduction in depressive symptoms than those that participated in a 5 week exercise program. A second study reported that light contact touch as more effective at reducing symptoms of depression than compression massage (Chase et al. 2013).

Conclusion

There is level 1b evidence (Diego et al. 2002) that massage may be effective in reducing symptoms of depression post SCI.