Comparing the impact of acupressure and reflexology on fatigue in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients: A randomized controlled trial with three arms

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of acupressure and reflexology on fatigue in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. MethodIn this randomized controlled trial with three arms and a pretest-posttest design, 102 CLL patients were randomly allocated to acupressure (n = 34), reflexology (n = 34), or control (n = 34) groups. Pre-intervention assessments were conducted using a demographic questionnaire and a fatigue scale for cancer patients. The acupressure group received routine care with acupressure targeting the SP6 point for 10 min twice daily over four weeks. The reflexology group received daily 10-minute reflexology sessions over four consecutive weeks following the preparation and lubrication of the soles of their feet with sweet almond oil. Post-intervention assessments were administered to all groups using the same instruments. ResultsResults showed both acupressure and reflexology significantly reduced fatigue compared to the control group (P < 0.001). While differences were noted between acupressure, reflexology, and control groups initially, the post-intervention analysis revealed no significant variance between acupressure and reflexology in reducing fatigue (P < 0.05), suggesting similar improvement between acupressure and reflexology. ConclusionsAcupressure and reflexology are recommended as cost-effective and low risk complementary approaches for managing fatigue in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. These therapies offer promise in alleviating fatigue and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients.