Reflexology and hot water foot baths for pain relief after colorectal surgery

The Effect of Reflexology Massage and Hot Water Foot Bath on Pain and Gastrointestinal Functions After Colorectal Surgery

NA · Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · NCT06972199

This study is testing if reflexology massage or hot water foot baths can help relieve pain and improve recovery for people after colorectal cancer surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment102 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul University - Cerrahpasa (other)
Locations2 sites (Istanbul, Istanbul and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06972199 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of reflexology massage and hot water foot baths as non-invasive treatments to alleviate postoperative pain and improve gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: reflexology, hot water foot bath, or a control group. Pain levels will be measured using the Numerical Rating Scale, while gastrointestinal recovery will be assessed through the time to first gas and feces passage and monitoring of bowel sounds. The study aims to provide evidence for effective non-pharmacological interventions in postoperative care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for laparoscopic surgery for malignant tumors in the large intestine.

Not a fit: Patients with a temporary or permanent stoma or those who have previously received reflexology treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer patients effective non-drug methods to reduce pain and enhance recovery after colorectal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for non-pharmacological interventions like reflexology in postoperative care, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older,
* Planning laparoscopic surgery for a malignant tumour in the large intestine,
* The same method was used for preoperative bowel and GI tract preparation,
* Postoperative Numerical Proportioning Scale (NRS) score of 3 and above,
* Verbal and written acceptance to participate in the research.

Exclusion Criteria:

* The patient has a temporary or permanent stoma,
* Having a history of reflexology application before,
* Open wound, infection, circulatory disorder, lesion, etc. in the areas where reflexology massage or hot water foot bath will be applied,
* Patient-controlled analgesia in the early postoperative period
* Having any problem that prevents verbal communication.

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Istanbul and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Colorectal Surgery, Reflexology, Traditional Chinese Medication, Nursing

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.