Effect of Acupressure on Quality of Life among Female Nurses with Chronic Back Pain

Abstract

1.ABSTRACT Background : Chronic Back Pain is the most common musculoskeletal work-related disorders among nurses. Acupressure is the type of complementary medicine frequently used today that involves pressing with fingers to stimulate acupoints of the human body to release endorphins which cause muscle relaxation and pain relief. Aim of this study was to determine the effect of acupressure on quality of life among female nurses with chronic back pain. Design : A quasi experimental research design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted at all surgical and medical units at Mansoura University Hospital. Sample: A purposive sample of 100 female nurses with chronic back pain was distributed equally into two groups; Study group receiving acupressure sessions (I) and the control group received routine treatment plan (II). Tools: Three tools were used to collect data: Structured interview questionnaire, Pain assessment scale, Japanese Orthopedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ). Results : Highly statistically significant difference in pain intensity and quality of life between two groups post acupressure sessions at (p= <0,0001 * ) was observed. Conclusion : Acupressure is effective complementary therapy improves back pain, increase QOL and increase occupational function. Therefore, acupressure can be used as a drug-free and low-cost approach without side effects to improve quality of life in nurses with chronic back pain. Recommendations : Educational nursing program about effect and technique of acupressure should be conducted. Future research should include longitudinal studies with a cross-over design to document the long-range effects of acupressure for female nurses with chronic back pain