Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Three Different 15-Minute Office Massage Types (Head, Cervical Area, Hand) on Autonomic Nervous System Balance and Chronic Stress Reduction Using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Three Different 15-Minute Office Massage Types (Head, Cervical Area, Hand) on Autonomic Nervous System Balance and Chronic Stress Reduction Using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
This study is a randomized controlled trial designed to investigate which of three short office massage types (head, neck/shoulder area, or hand) is most effective for reducing chronic stress in women who perform sedentary office work.
Many sedentary female office employees experience long-term tension and work-related strain, which can affect the body's ability to recover. The investigators are testing whether a 15-minute massage, performed twice a week for four weeks, can help restore balance within the body.
The investigators will evaluate the impact of these massages using Heart Rate Variability (HRV)-an objective measure that shows how well the body manages stress (autonomic nervous system balance)-as well as analyzing participants' self-reported levels of perceived stress, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Participants receiving massage will be compared to a control group engaging in quiet rest.
Inclusion Criteria:
Biological females aged 18 years or older. Currently working in an office job with at least 75% of the working day spent sitting (sedentary work).
Self-reported regular menstrual cycle (cycle length 21-35 days). Able to attend all scheduled intervention sessions (8 sessions over 4 weeks). Able to provide informed consent to participate in the study.
Exclusion Criteria:
Current pregnancy or breastfeeding. Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, deep vein thrombosis) or presence of a pacemaker Endocrine or metabolic disorders (e.g., insulin-dependent diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or other thyroid dysfunctions) Active cancer or receiving active cancer treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy) History of major surgery or trauma in the head, neck, or upper extremities within the last 3 months Current diagnosis of a major psychiatric disorder (e.g., major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder) Regular use of medications affecting heart rate or the nervous system (e.g., beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, antidepressants, anxiolytics, or asthma inhalers) Current participation in another interventional clinical trial
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