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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06875349

Foot Reflexology and Abdominal Massage

to determine and compare the effects of foot reflexology and abdominal massage applied to elderly individuals on constipation

Completed

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Key information

Conditions

Constipation Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Signs and Symptoms Signs and Symptoms, Digestive

Age range

65 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Karadeniz Technical University

Trabzon, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This randomized controlled study examined the effects of foot reflexology and abdominal massage on constipation in 90 elderly individuals from three nursing homes. Participants were divided into three groups: reflexology, abdominal massage, and control. The intervention groups received eight sessions over three weeks, while the control group received no treatment.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Being 65 years or older Having no movement restrictions Not using pharmacological laxatives Being diagnosed with constipation according to the ROMA IV criteria Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study

Exclusion criteria

Individuals having a condition that prevents cognitive, affective and verbal communication Having a disorder related to the nervous system and circulatory system Having an injection applied to the abdominal region during the application process Having a systematic disorder related to the GIS (diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, fecal impaction, incontinence, etc.) Having physiological and structural disorders that may prevent evacuation in the anus region (rectal fissure, etc.) Having any negativity in the sensory function examination test performed with a sharp-blunt hard object on the sole of the foot and abdomen Having any physiological and structural disorders related to the foot/sole of the foot

Treatment and study plan

Foot reflexology

Other

Foot reflexology is a complementary therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, which are believed to correspond to different organs and systems in the body. This technique aims to promote healing by improving blood circulation, reducing stress, and supporting overall well-being. Reflexology is often used to help with issues such as constipation, stress, sleep disorders, and pain management.

Abdominal Massage

Other

Abdominal massage is a therapeutic technique that involves applying gentle pressure and circular motions to the abdominal area to stimulate digestion, improve bowel movements, and relieve discomfort. It is commonly used to help with issues such as constipation, bloating, and digestive disorders by promoting intestinal motility and blood circulation. This technique can be performed manually or with the help of tools and is often incorporated into holistic and nursing care practices.

Primary outcomes

  1. Constipation Severity Scale

    Time frame: Day 1 and Day 13 and Day 25

    Does foot reflexology have an effect on constipation in elderly individuals? Constipation Severity Scale: The total score range is 0-73, with higher scores indicating greater severity of constipation.

  2. Constipation Severity Scale

    Time frame: Day 1 and Day 13 and Day 25

    Does abdominal massage have an effect on constipation in elderly individuals? Constipation Severity Scale: The total score range is 0-73, with higher scores indicating greater severity of constipation.

  3. Constipation Severity Scale

    Time frame: Day 1 and Day 13 and Day 25

    Is there a difference between the effects of foot reflexology and abdominal massage on constipation in elderly individuals? Constipation Severity Scale: The total score range is 0-73, with higher scores indicating greater severity of constipation.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Karadeniz Technical University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

The Effects of Foot Reflexology and Abdominal Massage in Elderly on Constipation: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Acronym: experimental

Important dates

Study start
2024
Primary completion
2024
Study completion
2025
First posted
Mar 13, 2025
Registry last updated
Mar 13, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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