Effectiveness of Hand Massage vs Foot Massage for Pain in Incision Site among Post-cesarean Mothers Admitted in Obstetrical Care Units at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry

Abstract

Background: Cesarean section is the most frequently performed surgery worldwide. Massage is one of the cheapest and cost-effective methods to reduce pain among post-cesarean mothers. Materials and methods: In this study, a true experimental research design was used. The population of the study was post-cesarean mothers during first postoperative day. A sample of 90 post-cesarean mothers was selected by using a simple random sampling technique, with 30 mothers in each group: group I received hand massage, group II received foot massage, and group III (control group) received daily routine care. Pre- and posttest pain levels were assessed by using a numerical pain rating scale. The duration of intervention was 20 minutes for two times at an interval of 60 minutes. Result: Hand massage and foot massage were effective on post-cesarean mothers in both group I and group II. Upon comparing the effectiveness of hand massage and foot massage, it was statistically significant at p < 0.001. The study finding reveals that foot massage was effective in reducing pain among post-cesarean mothers. Conclusion: Thus, the study concludes that foot massage is effective in reducing pain in the incision site among post-cesarean mothers. Therefore, the health professionals must explore alternative approaches to provide better care.