The psychological benefits of back massage cannot be overstressed for the hospitalized patient.

The following statements illustrate the concept of therapeutic touch as an integral part of the domain of nursing.

Back Massage

Touch can be perceived as a manifestation of caring and communication between the nurse and the patient.

Tactile communication between healthy and ill individuals can have highly beneficial results.

Therapeutic touch may make some patients uncomfortable; you are entering their personal space and their feelings must be respected, so make sure you ask the  patient if he/she would like a back rub.

Agents used for back massage:

Lotions or emollients.

• Lotions and emollients reduce friction and lubricate the skin.
• They are appropriate for most patients, especially those with a tendency toward dry skin; that is, elderly patients.

Massage Oil

Rubbing alcohol.

• Alcohol evaporates quickly, so it has a cooling but very drying effect.
• A certain amount of alcohol is absorbed by the skin so it should not be used on infants, elderly patients, or patients with liver disease.

Powder.

• Powder reduces friction but also has a drying effect on the skin.
• It may be appropriate for those patients who perspire freely and/or are confined to bed.

General guidelines.

A back massage should take about five to ten minutes and can be given with the patient’s bath, before bedtime, or at any other time during the day.

Determine if any patient allergies or skin sensitivities exist before applying lotion to the patient’s skin.

The greatest relaxation effect of a massage occurs when the rhythm of the massage is coordinated with the patient’s breathing.