Major research findings

Therapeutic touch is a complementary therapy that has been shown to have a positive effect on reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. 24 , 3 , 1 One study found that therapeutic touch, when combined with relaxation therapy, significantly reduced anxiety levels in patients. 24 Other studies have shown that therapeutic touch can improve mood, reduce pain, and enhance sleep quality. 3 , 6 In a study on women undergoing cardiac catheterization, therapeutic touch was found to reduce anxiety and heart rate. 12 Additionally, a study on patients with osteoarthritis of the knee showed that therapeutic touch may be effective in treating this condition. 21

Therapeutic touch has also been investigated for its potential benefits in cancer care. 11 , 10 For example, one study found that back massage during chemotherapy reduced fatigue and anxiety. 11 Another study demonstrated that therapeutic touch significantly reduced metastasis in a mouse breast cancer model. 10

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Therapeutic touch has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It may also improve mood, reduce pain, enhance sleep quality, and help manage symptoms associated with cancer treatment.

Risks Summary

While therapeutic touch is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or headache. 19

Comparison of studies

Commonalities

Many studies have demonstrated that therapeutic touch can effectively reduce anxiety and stress levels. It has also been shown to have positive effects on pain, fatigue, and sleep quality.

Differences

Research findings suggest that the effectiveness of therapeutic touch may vary depending on the specific condition being addressed and the techniques used. For example, some studies have found therapeutic touch to be particularly helpful for reducing anxiety, while others have shown its effectiveness in managing pain or promoting relaxation. 24 , 11 , 3 , 6 , 1 , 18 , 12 , 14 , 5 , 2 , 10 , 7 , 19 , 22 , 4 , 9 , 16 , 15 , 13 , 25

Consistency and inconsistencies of the results

While the research suggests that therapeutic touch can be beneficial for certain conditions, there is not yet a clear consensus on its effectiveness and mechanisms of action. Some studies have shown positive results, while others have yielded less conclusive findings. 2

Notes on the application of the results to real life

Therapeutic touch is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments as directed by a qualified healthcare professional. 11

Limitations of current research

Further research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of therapeutic touch and its potential mechanisms of action. The current body of research is limited by factors such as sample sizes, methodological variations, and the need for rigorous, well-controlled studies.

Future research directions

Future research should focus on conducting larger, more controlled studies to investigate the effectiveness of therapeutic touch for specific conditions. Research should also aim to elucidate the mechanisms by which therapeutic touch exerts its effects.

Conclusion

Therapeutic touch is a promising complementary therapy that has shown potential benefits for reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving mood and sleep quality. However, more research is needed to establish its efficacy and safety. As with any complementary therapy, individuals should consult with their healthcare providers before incorporating therapeutic touch into their healthcare regimen.