NCT06720077

Effect of Acupressure in The Management of Postmenopausal Constipation

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Cairo University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 50 Years – 60 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of acupressure in the management of constipation in postmenopausal women.

Detailed description

Constipation is prevalent in menopause, affecting 4-29% of women globally, and can lead to serious complications like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and colorectal cancer. While laxatives can help, long-term use may cause dependency and side effects. Alternative therapies are needed. Deep breathing, particularly diaphragmatic breathing, may improve constipation by activating the parasympathetic system and promoting relaxation. Acupressure has also shown potential in managing constipation by stimulating intestinal activity, improving blood circulation, and regulating Qi flow. Despite existing studies on acupressure and constipation, no research has specifically examined its effect on postmenopausal women. This study aims to investigate acupressure's impact on functional constipation in this population, offering potential insights for non-pharmacological management.

Conditions

• Constipation

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Acupressure	It will be applied for the experimental group only. Before starting the first treatment session, the participants will be instructed briefly about the nature of the treatment to gain their confidence and cooperation. Each participant in this group will be asked to lie in supine position and the acupressure will be applied by using the therapist's fingers on the following acupoints (san jio 6/ spleen 15/ stomach 25/ joining vally " intestine 4") 1 minute for each point with 3 repetitions on both sides (about 30 minutes as total time), 3 times per week for 6 weeks.
OTHER	Diaphragmatic breathing exercises	A modified exercise will be used to achieve normal diaphragmatic breathing while the woman is lying on her back, with one hand placed on her abdomen and the other on her thorax. She will then be instructed to breathe in deeply, slowly, and gradually for 4 seconds, hold the air for 2 seconds, and exhale slowly through pursed lips for 6 seconds. Three series of ten repetitions will be completed with rest in between; the woman will be advised to rest longer if she feels dizzy or lightheaded. The patient will ensure the exercise is performed successfully if the hand placed on the abdomen shows greater mobility compared to minimal or no mobility of the hand on the thorax. From that point, the series of repetitions will begin.
OTHER	General bowel care advise	All women in both groups will receive bowel care advice, including encouraging fiber intake (20-35 g/day) from sources like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, with a focus on soluble fiber. They will be advised to limit meat, dairy, and low-fiber foods and avoid caffeine-containing products like chocolate and coffee. Adequate hydration (1.5-2.0 L/day) with water or juices will be recommended, along with daily exercise, such as 20-30 minutes of walking. Proper toilet posture will be emphasized, including sitting with knees higher than hips (using a stool if needed), leaning forward, placing elbows on knees, relaxing, and maintaining a straight spine.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-12-07
• Primary completion: 2025-02-20
• Completion: 2025-03-01
• First posted: 2024-12-06
• Last updated: 2024-12-11

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Egypt