This study is a randomized controlled trial designed to investigate which of three short office massage types (head, neck/shoulder area, or hand) is most effective for reducing chronic stress in women who perform sedentary office work. Many sedentary female office employees experience long-term tension and work-related strain, which can affect the body's ability to recover. The investigators are testing whether a 15-minute massage, performed twice a week for four weeks, can help restore balance within the body. The investigators will evaluate the impact of these massages using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)-an objective measure that shows how well the body manages stress (autonomic nervous system balance)-as well as analyzing participants' self-reported levels of perceived stress, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Participants receiving massage will be compared to a control group engaging in quiet rest.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
140
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Participants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work.
Change from Baseline in Morning Resting Heart Rate Variability (rMSSD) at 4 Weeks
Time frame: Baseline, Periprocedural and Week 4
Change from Baseline in Perceived Stress Level (PSS-10 Score) at 4 Weeks
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Sleep Quality: Assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) total score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
General Self-Efficacy: Assessed using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Emotional Well-being: Assessed using the World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Neck Functional Limitation: Assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Hand and Shoulder Functionality: Assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Acute Pain Intensity Change: Assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score (0-10) in the specific massage area
Time frame: Periprocedural
Acute Subjective Well-being Change: Assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (0-100 mm) for relaxation, fatigue, and tension
Time frame: Periprocedural
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