Practice-Based Research Networks and Massage Therapy: a Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Integrative and Complementary Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are established in medicine to foster rigorous research.
• Massage therapy (MT) has limited established PBRNs despite their potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify and characterize massage therapy research emerging from PBRN initiatives.
• To assess the current landscape of PBRN-supported massage therapy publications.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of multiple databases (Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, ClinicalKey, Google Scholar) was conducted.
• Keywords included 'massage', 'massage therapy', and 'practice-based research network' (PBRN).
• Included articles focused on PBRN-related MT research, with analysis of publication year, study design, and themes.

Main Results:

• 40 articles were analyzed, primarily published after 2013, originating from nine PBRNs.
• Most studies were surveys (n=21) investigating practice characteristics and patient perspectives.
• Eight articles discussed the need for PBRNs in MT, with three not linked to specific PBRNs.

Conclusions:

• The PBRN model offers potential for MT advancement, but requires substantial development and implementation strategies.
• Professional associations and research institutions should prioritize the creation and growth of massage-specific PBRNs.
• While US PBRNs showed initial productivity, sustainability models are lacking; an Australian PBRN may offer a viable model.