Occupational HealthNCT07272031
Office Massage Effects on HRV and Stress
A study testing Head Massage Intervention, Cervical Area Massage Intervention and Hand Massage Intervention in people with Occupational Health and Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Functioning and Mood State, run by Riga Stradins University at 1 site in Latvia.
Trial summary
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. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 years and older, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- Occupational Health, Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Functioning and Mood State, Stress
- What is being tested?
- Head Massage Intervention, Cervical Area Massage Intervention and Hand Massage Intervention
- Type of treatment
- Surgery or procedure
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 140 participants
- Where
- 1 siteLatvia
- Study dates
- 5 Jan 2026to 30 Sep 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 years and older
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- 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.
Who cannot join
- 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
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Latvia1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
The Red Cross Medical College of Rīga Stradiņš University
Riga, Latvia, LV-1007
Una Veseta, dr paed, +37129172627, una.veseta@rsu.lv
About this study
Official title: 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.
- Being tested
- Head Massage Intervention, Cervical Area Massage Intervention, Hand Massage Intervention, Quiet Rest Control
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Head Massage InterventionProcedure or surgery
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Cervical Area Massage InterventionProcedure or surgery
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Hand Massage InterventionProcedure or surgery
15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair.
Quiet Rest ControlOther
Participants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Head Massage | Active comparator | Duration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. Receives: Procedure: Head Massage Intervention |
| Cervical Area Massage | Active comparator | Duration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. Receives: Procedure: Cervical Area Massage Intervention |
| Hand Massage | Active comparator | Duration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. Receives: Procedure: Hand Massage Intervention |
| Quiet Rest Control | Placebo comparator | Duration and Frequency: Participants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work. Receives: Other: Quiet Rest Control |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change from Baseline in Morning Resting Heart Rate Variability (rMSSD) at 4 Weeks
Measured: Baseline, Periprocedural and Week 4
Change from Baseline in Perceived Stress Level (PSS-10 Score) at 4 Weeks
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Secondary outcomes (7)
Sleep Quality: Assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) total score
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
General Self-Efficacy: Assessed using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) score
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Emotional Well-being: Assessed using the World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5) score
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Neck Functional Limitation: Assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) score
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Hand and Shoulder Functionality: Assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire score
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Acute Pain Intensity Change: Assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score (0-10) in the specific massage area
Measured: Periprocedural
Acute Subjective Well-being Change: Assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (0-100 mm) for relaxation, fatigue, and tension
Measured: Periprocedural
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted9 Dec 2025
- Study start5 Jan 2026
- Primary completion6 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Occupational HealthStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Non-randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 140 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riga Stradins University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Una Veseta, Riga Stradins University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07272031
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- OM_HRV_2025_RCMC
- Status last verified
- Aug 2026
- First submitted
- 18 Nov 2025
- Last updated
- 13 Aug 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 13 Aug 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- 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)
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07272031
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- OM_HRV_2025_RCMC
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 140 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Riga Stradins UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 5 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 6 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 9 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
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.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Non-randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Head Massage | Active comparator | Procedure: Head Massage InterventionDuration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. |
| Cervical Area Massage | Active comparator | Procedure: Cervical Area Massage InterventionDuration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. |
| Hand Massage | Active comparator | Procedure: Hand Massage InterventionDuration and Frequency: 15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. |
| Quiet Rest Control | Placebo comparator | Other: Quiet Rest ControlDuration and Frequency: Participants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 years and older
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (2 listed)
- 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.
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- 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
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Head Massage Intervention15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Massage focuses on the scalp, temples, and auricles (outer ear) with the aim of stimulating cranial nerves, particularly branches of the vagus nerve. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. | Procedure or surgery | Head Massage |
| Cervical Area Massage Intervention15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Deep tissue and kneading massage techniques applied primarily to the trapezius muscles, levator scapulae, and sub-occipital region (neck/shoulders). The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. | Procedure or surgery | Cervical Area Massage |
| Hand Massage Intervention15 minutes per session, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Compression, rubbing, and stroking techniques applied to the palmar and dorsal surfaces of the hands, fingers, and wrists. The procedure is performed by a licensed massage therapist while the participant is seated in an office chair. | Procedure or surgery | Hand Massage |
| Quiet Rest ControlParticipants are seated in the same office chair for a structured 15-minute period, 2 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks (8 sessions total). Focus: Participants are instructed to sit quietly, avoid work-related activity, and refrain from using electronic devices. This arm controls for the effect of researcher attention and time spent away from work. | Other | Quiet Rest Control |
Primary outcome
Change from Baseline in Morning Resting Heart Rate Variability (rMSSD) at 4 Weeks
Time frame: Baseline, Periprocedural and Week 4
Change from Baseline in Perceived Stress Level (PSS-10 Score) at 4 Weeks
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
7 secondary outcomes
Sleep Quality: Assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) total score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
General Self-Efficacy: Assessed using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Emotional Well-being: Assessed using the World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Neck Functional Limitation: Assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Hand and Shoulder Functionality: Assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire score
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Acute Pain Intensity Change: Assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score (0-10) in the specific massage area
Time frame: Periprocedural
Acute Subjective Well-being Change: Assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (0-100 mm) for relaxation, fatigue, and tension
Time frame: Periprocedural
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 13 Aug 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Head Massage Intervention, Cervical Area Massage Intervention and Hand Massage Intervention in people with Occupational Health and Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Functioning and Mood State, run by Riga Stradins University at 1 site in Latvia.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 2 inclusion and 1 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 13 Aug 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Latvia. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Una Veseta, PhD (+37129172627, una.veseta@rsu.lv), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change from Baseline in Morning Resting Heart Rate Variability (rMSSD) at 4 Weeks (time frame: Baseline, Periprocedural and Week 4). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 13 Aug 2026.