Trial Outcomes for Massage: Caregiver-Assisted vs. Therapist-Treated

Given the modest effectiveness of current treatments and the burden chronic neck pain places on Veterans, the investigators\' research proposal is significant in several regards. First, Trial Outcomes for Massage: Caregiver-Assisted vs. Therapist-Treated (TOMCATT) Study directly addresses a high priority area for the VA and is well aligned with the VHA Pain Management Strategy and VHA Pain Management Directive 2009-053. Second, because previous massage studies have included relatively small sample sizes, this trial will provide information vital to fill an evidence vacuum regarding effectiveness of a massage treatments for chronic neck pain. Third, TOMCATT will extend the current understanding of non-pharmacological treatments. Fourth, if the study hypotheses are corroborated massage may emerge as an effective, safe, affordable, sustainable, and accessible treatment for Veterans.