Effect of Acupressure-Ice Message on Primary Dysmenorrhea

Effect of Acupressure-Ice Message on Primary Dysmenorrhea

This study will be conducted to determine the effect of acupressure ice massage on primary dysmenorrhea.

Dysmenorrhea is considered the most common gynecological complaint by young women and affects approximately 60-80% of the female population. Around 8-18% of that population report intense discomfort, causing absenteeism in several daily activities while suffering pain.

Analgesics are considered the first line of treatment, but they are known for their undesirable effects such as renal, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal complications that can negatively affect patients' health. Physical therapy has alternative techniques that assist in analgesia in a practical and effective way; among them is acupressure and cryo therapy.

The effect of application of ice on the skin has a direct action on neurons and pain receptors, lowering the speed and the number of nerve impulses. This effect is due to its action on the gate control of pain mechanism, leading to the release of endorphins and enkephalins that are pain-relieving substances.

It was proved from previous studies that using ice massage on L14 or SP6 points reduce pain intensity in females suffering from PD. So, further studies are needed to investigate the effect of acupressure ice massage not only on pain intensity but also on other symptoms severity and quality of life of females suffering from PD. Therefore, this study will be conducted for this issue which will be of valuable benefits for medical service organization and increase body of knowledge of physical therapy in scientific field.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Fifty adolescents' females who are clinically diagnosed as primary dysmenorrhea.
• Their ages will be ranged from 17-25 years old.
• Their BMI will be less than 30 kg/m².
• All of them are virgin.
• Their pain level will be more than 3 on visual analogue scale.
• Having mild to moderate score on Menstrual Distress questionnaire (MDQ) ( ≥ 50).
• Having regular menstruation for the last 6 months (every 28-30 days with no intermittent bleeding).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Systematic chronic diseases or any pelvic inflammatory diseases.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea.
• Menstrual irregularity.
• Nerve damage resulting in loss of feeling.
• Swelling, scar or skin infection.
• Diabetic patients.