This pilot study evaluates potential biological and psychological effects of Swedish massage in adults with type 1 diabetes. Massage may influence stress-related mechanisms, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and inflammation, which are linked to impaired insulin sensitivity and glycemic control. Twenty participants with type 1 diabetes will receive weekly 45-60-minute Swedish massage sessions for five weeks. Biological outcomes include HbA1c, fasting glucose, copeptin, hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α. Glycemic variability will be assessed using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Psychological outcomes include perceived stress (PSS-10) and anxiety (GAD-7). The study aims to explore feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary within-group effects on stress regulation and glycemic balance
Adults (≥18 years) with type 1 diabetes ≥ 1 year
Able to attend two assessment visits at Vrinnevi Hospital
Uses CGM or equivalent system
Able to communicate in Swedish and provide consent
Severe diabetes complications (e.g., advanced neuropathy)
Acute psychiatric disorder requiring treatment
Contraindications to massage (e.g., thrombosis, fever, infection, recent surgery)
University Hospital, Linkoeping
Lead sponsor
Linkoeping University
Sponsor institution
Linkoeping University
Collaborator