Comparison of the Effects of Meridian Massage and Hand Massage on the Affected Upper Extremity of Stroke Patients

Kang, Hyun Sook; Sok, Sohyune R; Kang, Ji Soon

Abstract

PURPOSE: In this study, the effects of meridian massage and hand massage on the affected upper extremity of patients with a stroke were identified. METHOD: A nonequivalent control group non-synchronized design was used. Participants were 84 (Experimental. 1: 28, Experimental. 2: 28, Control.: 28) patients with a stroke who were hospitalized in K oriental medical center. Experimental treatment for patients in experimental group 1 was the meridian massage for 10 minutes daily for 2 weeks, and for those in experimental group 2, hand massage for 2 minutes, 30 seconds each, daily for 2 weeks. Outcome variables were upper extremity function (grip power, shoulder pain, edema, ROM), ADL, and depression. Data were analyzed using SPSS PC+ version.
RESULTS
The score for upper extremity functions and ADL were significantly higher in experimental group 1 who had meridian massage than for experimental group 2 or the control group. Experimental group 1 showed less depression than experimental 2 or the control group.
CONCLUSION
Meridian massage can be an effective nursing intervention to improve upper extremity function and ADL, and to decrease depression in patients stroke who have had a stroke.