Ten intensive care patients (alert and oriented) on Ward 13i2 at Vienna General Hospital received sound massages as part of a nursing study. The treatment was administered in 2008 by Harald Tietz (registered nurse). The patients were asked about their well-being immediately after the treatment and again one hour later.
Results of the study
A documentary by Harald Tieter, Vienna General Hospital
- 90% of patients reported that they were able to relax deeply and "let go" during the sound massage
- Even an hour after the session, the majority still felt balanced, energetic, and motivated
- The sound massage was perceived as soothing in the stressful atmosphere of an intensive care unit
- In addition, there were positive effects on fellow patients and nursing staff, who also found the sounds soothing
- Evidence from clinical settings suggests that sound massages
can improve sleep patterns, reduce the need for sleep aids and pain medication, and encourage active participation in the healing process - Overall, the results suggest that sound massage can serve as a valuable complementary therapy in everyday clinical practice
A report on the study has been published in the journal Kang Massage Therapy 7/2010 (Download)