The Effect of Foot Reflexology on the Level of Fatigue, Dyspnea and Anxiety of Chronic Respiratory Patients

Abstract

Background: Chronic respiratory diseases are among the most common non-communicable diseases globally. Foot reflexology may offer benefits for patients with these conditions. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of foot reflexology on anxiety, dyspnea, and fatigue in patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Methods: A quasi-experimental clinical trial was conducted with 34 chronic respiratory patients (moderate to severe lung involvement) from Abadan University of Medical Sciences-affiliated hospitals. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Reflexology sessions were administered twice a week for six weeks, each lasting 30 minutes, using sweet almond oil. Data were collected through a Socio-demographic Questionnaire, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Borg Dyspnea Scale. Results: After foot reflexology, significant reductions were observed in fatigue, dyspnea, and anxiety scores (P < 0.05). Multivariable regression analysis, controlling for confounders, confirmed these reductions in the intervention group. Conclusions: Foot reflexology is a beneficial complementary treatment alongside conventional medical care for chronic respiratory patients.