### Relaxation Rx: slow stroke back rub

C Fakouri, P Jones - Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 1987 - journals.healio.com

C Fakouri, P Jones

Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 1987•journals.healio.comThe back rub has been used for centuries as a means of treating many ills. Nurses

recognize that back rubs stimulate circulation and promote relaxation by decreasing muscle

tension. 1· 2 This article looks at the slow stroke back rub as a means of promoting

relaxation in elderly clients.In addition to the physiological effects, the back rub has

psychological benefits. Burnside refers to the back rub as an example of task-oriented

touching that may also demonstrate the caring and concern associated with affective touch …

recognize that back rubs stimulate circulation and promote relaxation by decreasing muscle

tension. 1· 2 This article looks at the slow stroke back rub as a means of promoting

relaxation in elderly clients.In addition to the physiological effects, the back rub has

psychological benefits. Burnside refers to the back rub as an example of task-oriented

touching that may also demonstrate the caring and concern associated with affective touch …

The back rub has been used for centuries as a means of treating many ills. Nurses recognize that back rubs stimulate circulation and promote relaxation by decreasing muscle tension. 1· 2 This article looks at the slow stroke back rub as a means of promoting relaxation in elderly clients.

In addition to the physiological effects, the back rub has psychological benefits. Burnside refers to the back rub as an example of task-oriented touching that may also demonstrate the caring and concern associated with affective touch.-1 The need for affective touch continues throughout life and even increases with age, especially when the individual experiences stress and/or social isolation4-common reactions to hospital ization and long-term care.

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