Evidence-Based Massage Therapy

Reviewed by Kathleen Laquale, Full Professor, Bridgewater State University on 6/29/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

Because the material is presented as a handbook, it cannot be all inclusive of the practices of a massage therapist. However, of what is presented the author provides concise, practical and accurate information for the novice massage therapist and a refresher resource for the experienced therapist.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content as presented appears to be error-free and does not appear to be biased. There are very few books which offer evidence-based information for the massage therapist. The author follows the strict guidelines as prescribed by the American Massage Therapy Association.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The content is up to date as of the publication date. The authors state that It will be continuously updated as new research becomes available.

Clarity rating: 5

The text does not required additional explanation of terminology used within the sections. In addition, there is a glossary provided at the end of the book.

Consistency rating: 5

I could not find any inconsistencies in terms of the terminology and framework within the text.

Modularity rating: 5

Each of the five sections within the handbook provides concise and accurate information. The table of contents links is very user friendly providing immediate access to each section of the book.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The topics in the text are presented in a plausible, unambiguous manner.

Interface rating: 5

All display features were free on any interface issues.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

Any grammar errors were minimal.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The text does not appear to be culturally insensitive or offensive in any way.

Comments

Evidence based research in the field of massage therapy is welcomed by the massage therapist who is state licensed and board certified with the credentials LMT and NCBTMB. Having the two credentials helps, (according to the NCBTMB) to earn the public's trust and confidence, enhances the reputation of the profession, and safeguards the interest of individual clients. A massage therapist with both credentials has a practice based on high ethical standards. Therefore, this textbook provides scientific evidence of the skills and techniques used by the massage therapist to support the quality of their practice.

Reviewed by Judy Gawron, Professor Physical Therapist Assistant and Massage Therapy Programs, Berkshire Community College on 6/3/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The text Evidence-Based Massage Therapy provides introduction to managing musculoskeletal pain with massage therapy. The author uses a consistent, easy to follow framework for each module. Each topic stays specific to the topic, while integrating videos and key takeaways. The table of contents is arranged to provide an inclusive presentation of information, including intent of the text, history of massage therapy, theories in pain science, role and importance of clinical examination, and specific disorders/conditions of musculoskeletal related pain. Also, the author includes a thorough list of supplementary resources, general reference texts, technical texts and research articles. The glossary is thorough. The format for each pain condition/disorder is comprehensive in that each module includes the basic pathophysiology; examination components, including appropriate screens and outcome measures; areas of the body to consider; prognosis; and references. It is this holistic approach to musculoskeletal pain with massage therapy that really makes the text comprehensive.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

This text is accurate and uses sound resources. There are scope of practice differences for massage therapists in the United States compared to Canadian massage therapists. It is up to the reader to ensure state practice and professional scope is maintained.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

As a resource that can be easily kept to date, this text is relevant to Allied Health and Bodywork professionals.

Clarity rating: 5

Content is clearly presented in a logical format, then summarized at the end of each module. The glossary is inclusive enough and easily accessed for any technical terminology used.

Consistency rating: 5

Terminology and framework is consistent throughout the text.

Modularity rating: 5

This text could easily be realigned to meet the need of presenting modules/information when using a different sequence than the author.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The progression from purpose/intent of the text to history, to pain theories sets the stage for a logical sequence throughout the text.

Interface rating: 5

Interfacing with this text was easy and intuitive. At times, the content tab did require multiple 'clicks' to open.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

One typo noticed under Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, first sentence under pathophysiology--the "t" was left off of "the". Otherwise no grammatical errors noted.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

No cultural bias determined.

Comments

This is a good resource for practitioners and as an educational tool for educators. OER format enables equity in access and provides development of content in a timely manner.