In 2015, Azima, et. al., conducted study about dysmenorrhea which is a common cyclic pelvic pain, significantly impacts the quality of life for many women. In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of massage therapy and isometric exercises on primary dysmenorrhea. The research was conducted as a randomized controlled trial among 102 students with primary dysmenorrhea, residing in the dormitories of Shiraz University.

Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: massage, isometric exercises, or a control group. The massage group received effleurage massages with lavender oil for two consecutive menstrual cycles. The isometric exercise group engaged in a structured 8-week exercise regimen. The control group did not receive any intervention.

Pain intensity, measured using a visual analog scale, was the primary outcome. Additionally, the duration of pain was recorded in hours, and anxiety levels were assessed using Spielberger’s questionnaire. Both the massage and exercise groups experienced a significant reduction in pain intensity, with the massage group showing the most pronounced improvement (P < .001).

A significant difference in the mean duration of pain among the three groups was observed after the third menstrual cycle (P = .006). However, no significant differences were found in anxiety levels among the groups. Notably, within-group analysis revealed that only the massage group showed a significant reduction in anxiety after the third cycle (P = .017).

In conclusion, both massage therapy and isometric exercises proved effective in alleviating certain symptoms of dysmenorrhea. However, massage therapy showed a more substantial impact on pain reduction and anxiety, suggesting it may be a more effective intervention for managing primary dysmenorrhea.

Reference: Azima, S., Bakhshayesh, H. R., Kaviani, M., Abbasnia, K., & Sayadi, M. (2015). Comparison of the effect of massage therapy and isometric exercises on primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 28(6), 486-491.