Effects of Scalp Massage on Physiological and Psychological Indices

Abstract

We examined the effects of scalp massage in reducing stress and augmenting comfort by using physiological and psychological indices. Scalp massage was found to significantly decrease the cortisol level in saliva and significantly increase the level of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA). In a test that used the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), scalp massage was found to lower physical fatigue scores while increasing relaxation scores. Scalp massage also lowered the scores related to negative feelings in the Profile of Mood States-Short Form (POMS-SF). The salivary stress biomarkers and VAS and POMS-SF tests suggested that scalp massage is effective for improving comfort and reducing stress.