The Effects of Foot Reflexology on ADL and Fatigue in Stroke Patients

Song, Mi Ryeong; Song, Hyeong Mi

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was to examine the effects of foot reflexology on ADL and fatigue in stroke patients. METHOD: The subjects were 31 stroke patients hospitalized in the Oriental Medicine Hospital of D University from June to November, 2002. Foot reflexology was applied to the experimental group twice a week for 6 weeks, 40 minutes each. For the data analysis, chi2-test was conducted to verify the homogeneity of general characteristics and clinical characteristics, and t-test was done to verify the homogeneity of ADL and fatigue. To examine the relative efficacy of the intervention, ANOVA and ANCOVA were conducted. RESULTS: After foot reflexology, the subjects in the experimental group showed significant improvement in ADL. They also had less physical, psychological, and neurosensory fatigue, which are three areas of fatigue. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that foot reflexology is an effective intervention that helps the body work efficiently, eases stress and strain, and enhances the homeostasis of the body through stimulating the reflex zone of internal organs in the body. Therefore, it is necessary to develop foot reflexology as an unique nursing intervention.