The effectiveness of Swedish massage and traditional Thai massage in treating chronic low back pain: a review of the literature

Aim: To review the effectiveness of Swedish and traditional Thai massage in treating chronic low back pain.

Background: Thai and Swedish massage both appear to relieve lower back pain but their relative effectiveness has not been clearly established.

Design and method: A literature review of nine databases were searched and 13 papers found.

Results: Six papers meet the inclusion criteria and were summarised and reviewed. Both Thai and Swedish massages are reported to relieve chronic low back pain by enhancing physical functions; providing pain relief, improving disability and range of motion, improving psychological functions; reducing anxiety and improving mood. Although based on different theoretical frameworks, they appear to be equally effective in relieving chronic low back pain.

Conclusion: Despite some evidence for the use of massage to relieve low back pain, methodological limitations highlight the need for further studies that compare Thai massage and Swedish massage.