Comparing the Effects of Reflexology Massage and Acupressure on the Quality of Sleep in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background and purpose: Sleep disorder is a common problem in hemodialysis patients. This study aimed to compare the effect of reflexology massage and acupressure on sleep quality in these patients. Materials and methods: In a clinical trial, 90 patients were selected using convenient sampling and were randomly assigned into three groups; acupressure group (n=30), reflexology massage group (n=30), and control group (n=30). In the acupressure group, massaging of the Shen Men point was performed in 12 sessions. In the reflexology massage group, foot massage was done and the control group received routine care. Sleep quality was measured before, during, and after the intervention and compared using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results: There was no significant difference between the three groups in total score for sleep quality before the intervention. The Post-intervention mean scores for sleep quality at two and four weeks were 4.4±3.1 and 3.2±2.5 in the reflexology massage group, 5.2 ± 2.1 and 3.9±2.5 in acupressure group, and 9.7±3.8 and 9.8± 3.8 in controls, respectively. After the interventions, the scores indicated significant improvements in reflexology group and acupressure group compared with the control group (P< 0.01). But, no significant difference was seen between the two intervention groups. Conclusion: Reflexology and acupressure massage could effectively improve the quality of sleep in hemodialysis patients which could be easily performed as a non-pharmacological method. (Clinical Trials Registry Number: IRCT20171220037980N1)