One of the limitations of this manualized Swedish
massage protocol is that the protocol may not be as efficacious
as real-world practice as fully individualized
treatment is precluded. In addition, other techniques
(that is, neuromuscular and myofascial) may be more effective
in altering posture and gait in ways that might
affect osteoarthritis symptoms and progression. The one
known study comparing Swedish massage with myofascial
and neuromuscular techniques for treatment of back
pain showed no significant difference in ability to affect
pain or function