Reflexology for Hysterectomy

Subject:

	Hysterectomy, Pain, Thermography

Study Conducted:	Country:	Institution:

	Korea		College of Nursing Science, Ewha Womans University

Citation:

	Shin, KR., Kwak, SA., Lee, JB., Yi, HR., “The Effectiveness of Hand Acupressure and Moxibustion in Decreasing Pain and ‘Coldness’ in Korean Women Who Have Had a Hysterectomy; a Pilot Study.” Appl Nurs Res. 2006 Feb;19(1):22-30.

Synopsis:

10 women, ages 40-65, with hysterectomies within 5 yr prior to study, were divided randomly into two groups. Group I was given hand moxibustion; Group 2 was given hand acupressure. The visual analogue scale was used to evaluate and measure the pain and digital infrared thermographic imaging to measure “coldness” and blood circulation. Results: the two groups did not differ much; but in Group I, temperature of the internal parts of the body (abdomen and waist) increased while in Group 2 the temperature increased in the peripheral parts of the body. Pain scores decreased in both over time.

Conclusion:

	Hand acupuncture and hand moxibustion was found to be effective in reducing pain and coldness in Korea women who have had a hysterectomy.

	Reflexology Research provided courtesy of the American Academy of Reflexology, Bill Flocco, Director. Foot Hand Ear Reflexology Classes, Reflexology Certification, Continuing Education ARCB, NCBTMB, ABMP, many Cities, and States.