The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Hospital Anxiety and Depression in Female Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background Patients with cardiovascular diseases usually suffer from hospital anxiety and depression. Aim This study aimed to investigate the effect of foot reflexology massage on anxiety and depression in female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome. Participants Ninety older women with acute coronary syndrome were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups (n=45 in each group). Research Design A randomized controlled trial. Intervention The intervention and control groups received foot reflexology massage and routine care, respectively. Main Outcomes Measures The levels of anxiety and depression were evaluated using the hospital’s anxiety and depression scale (HADS) before and immediately after foot reflexology massage. Results Foot reflexology massage reduced both anxiety (F(1.44)=19.11, p = .001) and depression (F(1.44)=16.76, p = .001) in acute coronary patients relative to control patients. The intervention had a large effect on hospital anxiety and depression. Conclusions Foot reflexology massage is an efficient and safe intervention for alleviating psychological responses among female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome during hospitalization.