Foot Reflexology and Abdominal Massage

The Effects of Foot Reflexology and Abdominal Massage in Elderly on Constipation: a Randomized Controlled Trial

to determine and compare the effects of foot reflexology and abdominal massage applied to elderly individuals on constipation

This randomized controlled study examined the effects of foot reflexology and abdominal massage on constipation in 90 elderly individuals from three nursing homes. Participants were divided into three groups: reflexology, abdominal massage, and control. The intervention groups received eight sessions over three weeks, while the control group received no treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

Being 65 years or older Having no movement restrictions Not using pharmacological laxatives Being diagnosed with constipation according to the ROMA IV criteria Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

Individuals having a condition that prevents cognitive, affective and verbal communication Having a disorder related to the nervous system and circulatory system Having an injection applied to the abdominal region during the application process Having a systematic disorder related to the GIS (diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, fecal impaction, incontinence, etc.) Having physiological and structural disorders that may prevent evacuation in the anus region (rectal fissure, etc.) Having any negativity in the sensory function examination test performed with a sharp-blunt hard object on the sole of the foot and abdomen Having any physiological and structural disorders related to the foot/sole of the foot