The Effect of Slow Stroke Back Massage (SSBM) Therapy on Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a global health problem that is the leading cause of death. WHO data for 2023 shows that around 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years in the world suffer from hypertension, with only 42% diagnosed and treated. In Indonesia, the prevalence of hypertension reaches 23.7% (WHO, 2022) and in West Java it is 32.6% (SKI, 2023). Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications such as stroke and kidney failure. The management of hypertension can be done pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically. One of the effective non-pharmacological therapies is Slow Stroke Back Massage (SSBM), which is a gentle massage technique in the back area to provide a relaxing effect and lower blood pressure. Objective: Aim to identify scientific journals that explain the effect of SSBM therapy on blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Method: This study is a literature review study that was searched through the ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases with a publication deadline of 2015– 2025. Of the 1,134 journals selected using the inclusion criteria of PICOS and PRISMA, 10 journals were analyzed. Results: review showed that SSBM therapy significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients, especially if it was done routinely for several days or weeks. Conclusion: SSBM is an effective, safe, and efficient non-pharmacological therapy in helping to lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients and provide a relaxation effect that supports patient welfare.