Indonesian Journal of Global Health Research
Vol. 8 No. 3 (2026): Indonesian Journal of Global Health Research

Effects of Back Massage and Music Relaxation on Blood Pressure among Patients with Hypertension: A Literature Review

Lino Aparicio Pires Gusmão (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung)
Indah Sri Wahyuningsih (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung)
Dwi Heppy Rochmawati (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung)
Erna Melastuti (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung)



Article Info

Publish Date
09 May 2026

Abstract

Hypertension is a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Non-pharmacological strategies such as back massage and music relaxation have been proposed to attenuate sympathetic activation and stabilize blood pressure. Grounded in relaxation theory and stress physiology, this review synthesizes current evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions in patients with hypertension. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines across national and international databases (2020–2025). The research question was structured using the PICO framework. Quasi-experimental and randomized controlled trials involving hypertensive patients and reporting pre–post or between-group changes in blood pressure were eligible. Of 312 records identified, 97 duplicates were removed. After title–abstract screening of 215 records and full-text assessment of 69 articles, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were narratively synthesized. Most studies demonstrated statistically significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure following back massage, music therapy, or combined relaxation approaches. However, notable heterogeneity was observed in intervention protocols, duration, comparators, and control for confounding factors. Back massage and music relaxation appear to be safe, complementary interventions with promising potential to reduce blood pressure among individuals with hypertension. Nonetheless, rigorously designed randomized controlled trials with standardized protocols and longer follow-up are warranted to strengthen the evidence base.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJGHR

Publisher

Subject

Description

Indonesian Journal of Global Health Research is a open access, peer reviewed and refereed international journal. Indonesian Journal of Global Health Research aim to publish original research paper devoted to various area of all health sciences. Indonesian Journal of Global Health Research provides a ...