Effects of classic aesthetic massage on localized adiposity: a pilot study

Abstract

Due to current beauty standards, the search for aesthetic treatments, including classical massage, has increased; however, its presumed lipolytic action is still controversial in literature. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of classical massage on localized adiposity, by means of abdomen, hip and thigh perimeter measuring, nd by estimating thickness of abdominal wall fat by ultrasonography. Eight volunteers (33.9±8.9 years old, 65.1±8.4 kg) were assessed as to weight, body mass index, body perimeter measures and by abdomen ultrasonography at three moments: control (30 days before treatment), just before, and after treatment. The latter consisted of 12 thrice-weekly, 30-minute massage sessions on thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Results showed a significant reduction at hip perimeter (p=0.012), but none of subcutaneous fat tissue thickness (p=0.301). Classical aesthetic massage hence did not modify abdominal wall fat, but did reduce hip perimeter.