Korean J Adult Nurs.  2023 Feb;35(1):61-70. 10.7475/kjan.2023.35.1.61.

Effects of Contrast Therapy Using Flexible Thermoelectric Devices on Lower Extremity Edema, Pain, Muscle Fatigue, and Stress in Nursing Home Workers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• Song JA

• KMID: 2540054
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7475/kjan.2023.35.1.61

Abstract

Purpose
Contrast therapy, which includes alternately applying cold and heat therapy, is an effective intervention to increase muscle elasticity and reduce musculoskeletal edema and pain. This study aimed to confirm the effects of contrast therapy by using flexible Thermoelectric Devices (TEDs) — that not only maintain a constant temperature but can also change the temperature in a short time — on lower extremity edema, pain, muscle fatigue, and stress among nursing home workers.
Methods
This randomized controlled pre-post experimental study used a flexible thermoelectric element to administer contrast therapy in nursing home workers to compare its impact on lower extremity swelling, pain, muscle fatigue, and stress. As an intervention method, 4 minutes of heat therapy and 1 minute of cold therapy were repeated for a total of 30 minutes.
Results
The experimental group displayed a significant difference of -2.53 points, and the control group displayed a significant difference of -0.94 points (t=2.65, p<.050) as a result of an analysis comparing the two groups’ pain levels before and after the experimental treatment. The experimental group also displayed a statistically significant reduction in the degree of lower extremity edema (t=3.91, p=.001). Furthermore, the experimental group’s lower extremity stress index decreased significantly (t=2.87, p=.049).
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicated that contrast therapy by using flexible TEDs alleviated stress, leg pain, and swelling in nursing home workers and could be used as an intervention to alleviate musculoskeletal problems in healthcare workers.

Keyword

Cryotherapy; Hyperthermia; Induced; Musculoskeletal system; Stress; Psychological