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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
03:59
Therapeutic Massage for Psychological Well-being in Geriatric Oncology
Published on: May 22, 2026
Massage therapy for people with HIV/AIDS
Susan L Hillier1, Quinette Louw, Linzette Morris
1Centre for Allied Health Evidence, University of South Australia (City East), North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, Australia, 5000.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|January 22, 2010
Summary
Massage therapy may improve quality of life for people with HIV/AIDS, especially when combined with stress management. Some evidence suggests positive effects on immune function, but more research is needed due to small study sizes and moderate risk of bias.
Area of Science:
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) remain a global health challenge.
- While cure and prevention are prioritized, the quality of life for survivors requires further attention.
- Massage therapy is explored for its potential to enhance quality of life and immune function in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the safety and effectiveness of massage therapy for improving quality of life, pain, and immune parameters in PLWHA.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases was conducted in November 2008.
- Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving participants of any age with HIV/AIDS receiving massage therapy.
- Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently by two reviewers.
Main Results:
- Four heterogeneous RCTs were included, with moderate risk of bias.
- Massage therapy, especially combined with stress reduction techniques, showed superior effects on quality of life compared to standalone therapies.
- Significant improvements were noted in reduced healthcare utilization, spiritual well-being, and overall quality of life scores.
Conclusions:
- Some evidence supports massage therapy for improving quality of life in PLWHA, particularly when integrated with stress management.
- Potential positive effects on immunological function, such as CD4+ cell counts, were observed in some studies.
- Further large-scale, rigorously designed studies are necessary to strongly recommend massage therapy for PLWHA.
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