Effect of foot reflexology on relieving pain and improving resilience among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft

Abstract

Background: By applying pressure to specific reflective areas on the foot in accordance with different organs, standardized nursing interventions and programs significantly reduce pain. Increased intervention time can improve the effectiveness of foot reflexology, which is regarded as a beneficial intervention in a patient care program. It has been shown to have many health benefits, including lowering pain levels. Aim: This study aimed to explore the effect of foot reflexology on relieving pain and improving resilience among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft. Methods: A quasi-experimental (one group pre- and posttest) to evaluate the effectiveness of foot reflexology intervention on relieving pain and improving resilience among patients undergoing CABG. Setting: The study has been conducted in the intensive care unit and intermediate care units at the Academic Institute for Cardiothoracic Surgery, which is affiliated with Ain Shams University Hospitals. A purposive sample of patients (N.50) with coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) has been recruited for the conduction of the present study. The study period was 9 months, from April 2024 to December 2024. Data collection tools: (1) structured interview questionnaire, (2) visual analog scale (VAS), and (3) the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Results: In terms of age, 72% of the patients were male, and the mean ± SD was 40.20 ± 7.64. Regarding the visual analog scale (VAS) “Pain Scale,” the study found that, with a p-value of p < 0.001, there was a statistically significant decrease in pain post the intervention as opposed to pre. A p-value of p < 0.001 indicated that the mean resilience value was statistically significant higher in the post-intervention period than in the pre-intervention period. With a p-value of p < 0.001, there was a statistically significant decrease in pain post the intervention as compared to pre. Conclusion: The results of the present investigation indicate that the use of foot reflexology following open cardiac surgery greatly relieves the pain. Foot reflexology showed a more notable and vital improvement after the coronary artery bypass graft for patients as nonpharmacological treatment for patients as nursing care. Recommendations: Application of a foot reflexology training program for nurses who work in open heart surgery units so they may incorporate it into their regular patient care. Patients should follow foot reflexology training as part of their routine care after open heart surgery. Provide nursing personnel with regular in-service training to aid in the appropriate management of CABG patients to enhance their quality of life and results. Clinical trial number: Not applicable