The effect of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults: A randomized controlled trial

Tahereh Bahrami, Nahid Rejeh, Majideh Heravi-Karimooi, Seyed Davood Tadrisi, Mojtaba Vaismoradi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Citations (Scopus)
16 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background: Patients with cardiovascular diseases usually suffer from hospital anxiety and depression.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of foot reflexology massage on anxiety and depression in female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome.

Participants: Ninety older women with acute coronary syndrome were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups (n=45 in each group). Research Design: A randomized controlled trial.

Intervention: The intervention and control groups received foot reflexology massage and routine care, respectively.

Main Outcomes Measures: The levels of anxiety and depression were evaluated using the hospital’s anxiety and depression scale (HADS) before and immediately after foot reflexology massage.

Results: Foot reflexology massage reduced both anxiety (F(1.44)=19.11, p =.001) and depression (F(1.44)=16.76, p =.001) in acute coronary patients relative to control patients. The intervention had a large effect on hospital anxiety and depression.

Conclusions: Foot reflexology massage is an efficient and safe intervention for alleviating psychological responses among female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome during hospitalization.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)16-21
Number of pages6
JournalInternational Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork: Research, Education, and Practice
Volume12
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 02 Sept 2019

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