Summary: This review examined the effectiveness of touch-based interventions in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults. The review analyzed 39 articles, identifying 11 different touch-based interventions, and found that touch can play a crucial role in emotional regulation and symptom reduction. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) was found to be a promising intervention, but the review notes that methodological diversity and limited conceptual frameworks require cautious interpretation of findings. Further research is needed to develop a theoretical understanding of why touch-based treatments may be effective in treating PTSD.
Citation and link: McGreevy, S. & Boland, P. (2022). Touch: An integrative review of a somatosensory approach to the treatment of adults with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 54, 2022, 102168, ISSN 1876-3820. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eujim.2022.102168] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1876382022000695