Practice characteristics of massage therapists participating in a practice-based research project in Iowa

Practice-based research involves a partnership between practitioners and researchers to collect data in real life settings. Massage therapists (MTs) were recruited at the two-day American Massage Therapy Association, Iowa Chapter convention in September 2006 to determine the feasibility of using this method with this group of providers. To promote the study, brochures were inserted in registration packets, an announcement was made during the board and business lunch meetings, and the researcher met with MTs during breaks. MTs that agreed to participate were asked to complete a four-page survey involving practice characteristics and the expectations they have of themselves and of massage therapy. They were also asked to collect surveys from 20 consecutive clients when they returned to their office. Of the 25 MTs that received project materials, 21 returned the surveys. Most (18) were female; the mean age was 47. MTs practiced in a variety of settings and half were employed in other jobs. The mean years in practice was 6.6 and the mean hours of direct client care was 15.8. The most common techniques reportedly used were Swedish massage, heat application, stretching and trigger point therapy. The most common health promotion activities were encouraging increased water intake, stretching at home/work, and exercise. Less common practices included acupressure, aromatherapy, and energy work. MTs had high expectations for massage helping clients to relax and sleep better at night and for improving muscle flexibility and decreasing pain. Practice-based research was a feasible method for collecting data from these MTs and their clients.