Effects of an electronic foot massage device on venous blood flow velocity in healthy adults

Abstract

Background

Deep vein thrombosis may lead to a high mortality rate in critically ill, elderly, or bedridden patients, but it could be prevented by using non-invasive methods. This study aimed to determine the effects of an electronic foot massage (EFM) device and an Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) device on femoral venous blood flow velocity and user satisfaction with each device.

Methods

A cross-over quasi-experimental design was conducted with thirty-two healthy adults who were randomly assigned to 30 min of using the EFM device and 30 min of using the IPC device. Each participant served as both the experimental (EFM) and control (IPC) group. Femoral venous blood flow velocity was measured by ultrasound at pretest, immediately after 30 min of applying each device, and again at 120 min following the end of each application. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and paired t-tests.

Results

Femoral blood flow velocity in participants using the EFM device was significantly higher than in those using the IPC device (p = 0.008) immediately after 30 min of application. However, participants’ satisfaction scores were lower with the EFM device compared to the IPC device (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The EFM device could potentially be applied as an innovative approach in clinical practice by integrating it with nursing therapeutics. Future studies are recommended to further examine the use of acupressure for promoting femoral venous blood flow velocity and to enhance the design for supporting the foot sole to improve user satisfaction.