A qualitative study-Patient experience of tactile massage after stroke.

Aim: The aim was to evaluate emotional experiences of gentle skin massage, combined with regular rehabilitation in patients shortly after being diagnosed with stroke.

Design: A randomized study with two groups: standard individualized rehabilitation and tactile massage for 20 min three times per week (max nine times) or individual standardized rehabilitations.

Methods: This study applied a qualitative approach using semi-structured questions to evaluate experiences of receiving tactile massage among patients with first-time-ever stroke.