Retrospective analysis of guideline-based massage therapy in primary care for musculoskeletal disorders

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) impose a significant burden on primary healthcare systems and the economy. Massage therapy (MT) may represent a useful tool for addressing these issues. However, the lack of robust evidence confirming its effectiveness makes this therapy controversial. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing guideline-based MT into routine primary care practice. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, records of 258 primary care patients (median (Me) = 51.5 years; 1st and 3rd quartiles (Q1-Q3) = 42-66) were analyzed. These patients had previously received MT according to guidelines recommended by the Polish Society of Physiotherapy, the Polish Society of Family Medicine, the College of Family Physicians in Poland, and the European Rural and Isolated Practitioners Association (EURIPA). The effectiveness of therapy was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the number of general practitioner (GP) appointments booked by patients (NA). RESULTS: The majority of patients who received MT suffered from low back pain (M54.5) (39.1%); soft tissue disorders related to use, overuse, and pressure (M70) (27.5%); unspecified spondylosis (M47.9) (9.3%); and osteoarthritis of the knee (M17.5 and M17.9) (4.3%). A Wilcoxon test revealed a significant reduction in NA for M54.5 (p < 0.001), M70 (p < 0.001), others (p < 0.001), M17 (p = 0.004), and M47.9 (p < 0.001), as well as in VAS scores for M54.5 (p < 0.001), M70 (p < 0.001), others (p < 0.001), M47.9 (p < 0.001), and M17 (p = 0.003) after MT. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the potential benefits of integrating physiotherapy-led massage into routine primary care practice for the management of selected musculoskeletal disorders. When implemented in cooperation with family physicians, MT may reduce pain and decrease the need for additional GP visits.