Research utilization and evidence-based practice among Saskatchewan massage therapists

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Massage Therapy Research

Background:

• Massage therapy (MT) is a growing healthcare service.
• Evidence for MT is increasing, but its integration into practice is unclear.
• Understanding research utilization in MT is essential for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess research utilization among Saskatchewan massage therapists.
• To understand MTs' perceptions of research and their self-efficacy in research literacy.
• To identify characteristics of practitioners who utilize research.

Main Methods:

• Survey design involving 815 registered members of the Massage Therapist Association of Saskatchewan.
• A mail-out questionnaire was used, achieving a 41% response rate (333 completed questionnaires).
• Data analysis included univariate and logistic regression using SPSS 17.0.

Main Results:

• Massage therapists generally hold positive perceptions of research.
• Self-efficacy in research literacy was reported as low among practitioners.
• Research utilization in practice was found to be limited.
• Characteristics associated with research use included accessing online databases/journals, belief in research-based practice, and practicing ≥20 hours/week.

Conclusions:

• While perceptions are positive, massage therapy practice is not consistently evidence-based due to low research literacy.
• Regulatory status and targeted research literacy training are recommended to improve evidence-based practice.
• Support systems are needed to facilitate the integration of research findings into massage therapy.