J Korean Acad Nurs.  2011 Feb;41(1):141-148. 10.4040/jkan.2011.41.1.141.

Effects of Heat Therapy Using a Far Infrared Rays Heating Element for Dysmenorrhea in High School Girls

• Hong YR

• KMID: 1007017
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2011.41.1.141

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was designed to identify the effects of heat therapy on dysmenorrhea, heat being provided using a far infrared rays heating element.
METHODS
The research design for the study was a non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental design. Participants were 22 students for the experimental group, and 26 students for the control group. Data were analyzed using SAS WIN 9.1 program.
RESULTS
The experimental group had significantly lower mean scores for menstrual pain, dysmenorrhea, and blood pressure than those in the control group. However, no significant differences were found between two groups for pulse, respiration, and temperature.
CONCLUSION
These findings show that thermotherapy was effective for reduction of menstrual pain, dysmenorrhea, and B/P. Therefore, this therapy could be used as a nursing intervention for students with dysmenorrhea.

Keyword

Infrared rays; Heating; Dysmenorrhea

MeSH Terms

Abdomen/radiation effects
Adolescent
Blood Pressure/physiology
Body Temperature/physiology
Child
Dysmenorrhea/prevention & control/*therapy
Female
Heart Rate/physiology
*Hot Temperature
Humans
*Infrared Rays
Respiration

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