Randomized clinical trial assessing whether additional massage treatments for chronic neck pain improve 12- and 26-week outcomes

179 adult patients with chronic, non-specific neck pain were initially randomized into one of five, 4-week massage treatment protocols. After completion of the 4 week initial treatment, each group was randomized to receive or not receive an additional 6-week booster phase of massage treatment, for a total of ten groups. The purpose of the study was to determine whether the additional 6-week booster treatment extended the benefits of the initial treatment. Results showed no difference in neck pain or dysfunction between those who received the booster treatment and those who did not, regardless of the initial protocol they were assigned to (30 or 60 minutes, 1-3 times per week), as assessed up to 26 weeks after initiation. Moreover, the group receiving the initial weekly 60 minute massage protocol and the booster treatment showed improved dysfunction and pain at 12 weeks compared to those who did not receive the booster treatment. However, these results were found to be insignificant at 26 weeks. The booster dose was most effective among those randomized to one of the 60-minute protocols in the initial 4 week treatment compared to those randomized to one of the 30-minute protocols.