This study will investigate the effects of 15 minutes of massage compared to 15 minutes of quiet rest on physiological variables. Specifically, the investigators will measure the effects on levels of the social hormone oxytocin, and on other physiological variables that interact with oxytocin or that may be influenced by massage (including ACTH, Beta-endorphin, and IL-1alpha). The investigators will also investigate whether, in the case of hormones changes, these influence social decision making.
Interested participants will have the experiment explained both verbally and in writing, and asked to give their informed consent in writing. After consent, the participants will be led to a private room for their first 30ml blood draw by a qualified phlebotomist. Participants will then have a second 30ml blood draw.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
95
Participants either received 15 minutes of moderate pressure Swedish massage on the upper back, or rested quietly sitting in a chair for 15 minutes.
Cassel, UCLA
Los Angeles, California, United States
Oxytocin
Participants receive a blood draw at baseline and immediately following 15 minutes of massage or rest and oxytocin will be measured from this sample.
Time frame: Within 5 minutes following experimental manipulation of either 15 minutes massage or rest.
Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)
Participants will receive a blood draw at baseline and immediately following 15 minutes of massage or rest, and ACTH will be measured in these blood samples.
Time frame: Within 5 minutes following experimental manipulation of either 15 minutes massage or rest.
Beta-endorphin
Participants will receive a blood draw at baseline and immediately following 15 minutes of massage or rest, and B-endorphin will be measured from these samples.
Time frame: Within 5 minutes following experimental manipulation of either 15 minutes massage or rest.
Interleukin-1alpha (IL-1a)
Participants will receive a blood draw at baseline and immediately following 15 minutes of massage or rest, and IL-1a will be measured from these samples.
Time frame: Within 5 minutes following experimental manipulation of either 15 minutes massage or rest.
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