In 2009, a study led by Ji-hong Wang and colleagues, the potential benefits of intelligent-turtle massage for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) were investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of this innovative massage technique on both physical symptoms and immune functions in CFS patients.

A total of 182 CFS patients were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group receiving intelligent-turtle massage treatment (n=91) and a control group treated with conventional massage therapy (n=91). Following two treatment courses, the researchers analyzed the therapeutic outcomes by assessing the accumulated score for improved clinical symptoms. Additionally, changes in immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgM, and IgG) were measured in 96 cases to further evaluate the impact of the massage techniques on immune function.

The results revealed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the accumulated scores for symptom improvement, indicating a notable therapeutic effect associated with intelligent-turtle massage compared to conventional massage therapy. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in the levels of IgA, IgM, and IgG between the two groups, suggesting potential positive effects on immune function.

Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that intelligent-turtle massage demonstrates promise as an effective therapy for alleviating physical symptoms associated with CFS. Moreover, the observed improvements in immune function suggest that this massage technique may have additional beneficial effects beyond symptom relief.

This study contributes valuable insights into alternative therapeutic approaches for managing CFS and underscores the importance of further research to explore the underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies for this debilitating condition.

Reference: Wang, J. H., Chai, T. Q., Lin, G. H., & Lin, L. U. O. (2009). Effects of the intelligent-turtle massage on the physical symptoms and immune functions in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 29(1), 24-28.