Effect of a Magnesium Sulfate Footbath on Primary Dysmenorrhea Pain

Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain that occurs without an identifiable pelvic disorder. It is common among young women and may negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. Nonpharmacological interventions that are simple, inexpensive, and suitable for home use may support pain management.

This study was designed as a three-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial. A total of 120 women with primary dysmenorrhea were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to one of three groups. Participants in the magnesium sulfate group immersed their feet in 10 liters of warm water containing 200 g of magnesium sulfate. Participants in the warm-water group received the same footbath without magnesium sulfate. Participants in the control group received no intervention. The footbath was applied for 20 minutes. The water temperature was maintained between 34°C and 37°C. The feet were immersed to approximately 10-15 cm above the ankles. The intervention was performed at the participants' homes and supervised by researchers through a video call.Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale and the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire. The Visual Analogue Scale was measured at baseline, 20 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours. Present Pain Intensity and the sensory, affective, and total Pain Rating Index scores were assessed at 20 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours. Participants were asked not to use analgesics, heat therapy, or another pain-relief method during the two-hour follow-up period.

Inclusion criteria

• Women aged 18-35 years
• Having regular menstrual cycles
• Experiencing primary dysmenorrhea
• Having a menstrual pain score of at least 3 on the Visual Analogue Scale
• Engaging in physical activity no more than twice per week
• Having a body mass index of 29.9 kg/m² or lower
• Willing to participate and providing informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Previous childbirth
• Presence of varicose veins, open wounds, or skin lesions on the feet or lower legs
• Presence of an acute or chronic foot condition
• Medical advice against warm-water footbath use
• Use of hormonal contraceptives
• Frequent use of anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications