Tactile Massage in Type 2 Diabetes

Tactile massage is a gentle form of massage that probably exerts its effect through relaxation. In a pilot study of 11 subjects an effect on HbA1c of 0.8%-units was seen. The study aimed at comparing the effect of tactile massage sessions for one hour given once a week for 10 weeks in comparison with relaxation through a relaxation CD performed once a week during 10 weeks. Primary outcome was HbA1c measured after completed intervention and after yet another 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes were quality of life by SF-36, other markers of metabolism (fasting glucose, insulin resistance by HOMA-model), inflammation (CRP, cytokines) and stress (cortisone, catecholamines).