Gastrointestinal SymptomsMenopausalNCT07528534
Foot Reflexology and Acupressure on Gastrointestinal Symptoms
A study testing Foot Reflexology and Acupressure in people with Gastrointestinal Symptoms, run by Osmaniye Korkut Ata University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
This research was planned to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology and acupressure applications on gastrointestinal symptoms in women going through menopause. Menopause is a period in which a woman experiences profound changes in her physiological, psychological, and social life due to the decrease in estrogen and… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 45 to 65 years, women onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- What is being tested?
- Foot Reflexology and Acupressure
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 120 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 15 Apr 2026to 15 Jun 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 45 to 65 years
- Women only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Being between 45 and 60 years of age,
- Being in menopause,
- Experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms,
- Agreeing to participate in the study voluntarily.
Who cannot join
- Individuals with chronic gastrointestinal disease,
- Individuals receiving regular medication will not be included in the study.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: The Effect of Foot Reflexology and Acupressure on Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Menopausal Women
This research was planned to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology and acupressure applications on gastrointestinal symptoms in women going through menopause. Menopause is a period in which a woman experiences profound changes in her physiological, psychological, and social life due to the decrease in estrogen and progesterone hormones. Changes in digestive system functions are particularly common during this period; gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal pain significantly reduce the quality of life.
The scope of the study focuses on investigating the manageability of these symptoms that occur during menopause with reflexology and acupressure, which are complementary and alternative medicine methods. Reflexology is a method based on the assumption that specific points on the soles of the feet are connected to the relevant organs in the body, aiming to increase blood circulation and regulate organ functions. Acupressure, based on Chinese medicine, aims to regulate energy flow and reduce symptoms by applying finger pressure to specific acupuncture points. Both methods are increasingly recommended for symptom management during menopause due to their non-invasive nature, low side effects, and ease of application.
This research will be conducted at Osmaniye State Hospital and will be limited to menopausal women who apply to this institution. Participants' demographic characteristics, duration of menopause, health history, and gastrointestinal symptom levels will be assessed using a Demographic Information Form and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). The application process will be carried out in accordance with standard reflexology and acupressure protocols, and changes in symptoms will be analyzed using pre-test and post-test measurements. The study also aims to reveal the effects of gastrointestinal symptoms experienced during menopause on women's quality of life; This study aims to provide evidence-based data on complementary methods that can be integrated into nursing care, in addition to pharmacological treatments. The limited number of studies in the literature addressing the effects of complementary medicine practices during menopause makes this research unique from both a clinical and academic perspective.
Read the detailed description
Menopause is a transitional period in which women experience profound changes in their physiological, psychological, and social lives due to the decrease in estrogen and progesterone hormones. During this process, significant changes are observed, particularly in digestive system functions, as a result of hormonal fluctuations. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal pain, frequently encountered during menopause, significantly reduce women's daily activities and overall quality of life.
Intervention Methods and Mechanisms of Action
This research deeply examines the effectiveness of non-invasive, low-side-effect, and practically applicable complementary and alternative medicine methods in managing these gastrointestinal symptoms. The theoretical framework of two main interventions to be applied in this study is as follows:
Foot Reflexology: This is based on the principle that specific reflex points on the soles of the feet are directly connected to the relevant organs, glands, and systems in the body. Manipulations performed on these points according to standard protocols aim to increase blood circulation, relax the nervous system, and directly support the normal functions of the gastrointestinal system.
Acupressure: Based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, this method involves applying systematic pressure with the fingertips to specific acupuncture points to balance the flow of energy in the body. This stimulation aims to regulate nerve transmission, relieve spasms and blockages in the digestive system, and thus alleviate gastrointestinal complaints.
Clinical Significance and Contribution to the Literature While routine pharmacological treatments are common in the management of menopausal symptoms, there is a growing need for holistic approaches that can be integrated into these treatments and have no side effects. The limited number of studies in the literature examining the specific direct effects of complementary medicine practices on the gastrointestinal system and their impact on quality of life in menopausal women makes this study highly unique in terms of both clinical practice and academic literature. The findings of this research will contribute to the creation of evidence-based, independent, and effective nursing interventions that can be integrated into standard nursing care plans in addition to pharmacological methods.
- Conditions
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Being tested
- Foot Reflexology, Acupressure
- Keywords
- Menopause, Reflexology, Acupressure, Gastrointestinal symptoms, Complementary therapies, Women's health
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Foot ReflexologyOther
Menopausal women assigned to the foot reflexology group will receive a standardized reflexology protocol administered by a trained/certified researcher. The steps and standards of the intervention are as follows:
Preparation: The application will be conducted in a quiet room with adjusted lighting and temperature. The participant will be positioned on a bed in a supine or semi-sitting position (approximately 45 degrees) with their legs supported. An unscented and non-allergenic massage oil or lotion will be used to reduce friction and maintain skin integrity.
Warm-up and Relaxation: Before starting the specific procedure, a brief relaxation massage using effleurage and petrissage techniques will be applied to both feet to increase blood circulation and prepare the tissues.
Target Area Applications: Following the warm-up, the focus will be directed to specific reflex points aimed at alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms, which is the primary objective of the study. Using thumb-walkin
AcupressureOther
Description:
Menopausal women assigned to the acupressure group will receive a standardized acupressure protocol administered by a trained/certified practitioner. The steps and standards of the intervention are as follows:
Preparation: The application will be conducted in a quiet, well-ventilated room with appropriate lighting and temperature to ensure the participant's comfort. The participant will be placed in a relaxed, comfortable position (supine or seated) that allows the practitioner easy access to the targeted acupressure points.
Target Area Applications: The intervention involves applying physical pressure to specific acupuncture points based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles to regulate energy flow (Qi) and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. The practitioner will focus on key acupoints known to support the stomach, intestines, and overall digestive system, as well as points that promote systemic relaxation and autonomic nervous system balance.
Application Techni
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Foot Reflexology | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: Foot Reflexology |
| Acupressure | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: Acupressure |
| control | No intervention | Not described |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Primary Outcome Measure Change from Baseline in Gastrointestinal Symptom Scores as Measured by the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS)
Gastrointestinal symptoms will be quantified using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), a validated, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 15 items grouped into five domains: abdominal pain, reflux, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation. Each item is rated on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = no discomfort to 7 = very severe discomfort). Domain scores and total GSRS score will be calculated as the mean of item scores, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The primary endpoint is the change in total GSRS score from baseline to Week 8.
Measured: Baseline and Week 8 (8 weeks)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted14 Apr 2026
- Study start15 Apr 2026
- Primary completion1 Jun 2026
- Study completion15 Jun 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Gastrointestinal SymptomsStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Supportive care
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This research will be conducted using a quasi-experimental (pre-test - post-test control group) design. The aim is to measure changes in gastrointestinal symptoms in menopausal women by applying foot reflexology and acupressure for a specific period of time.
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 120 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Osmaniye Korkut Ata University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, CANSU AĞRALI, Osmaniye Korkut Ata University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07528534
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- OsmaniyeKAU-SBF-CA-04
- Acronym
- Menopausal
- Status last verified
- Jul 2026
- First submitted
- 30 Mar 2026
- Last updated
- 28 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 28 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- The Effect of Foot Reflexology and Acupressure on Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Menopausal Women
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07528534
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Menopausal / OsmaniyeKAU-SBF-CA-04
- Conditions
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Keywords
- Menopause, Reflexology, Acupressure, Gastrointestinal symptoms, Complementary therapies, Women's health
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 120 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Osmaniye Korkut Ata UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 15 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Jun 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 15 Jun 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 14 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This research was planned to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology and acupressure applications on gastrointestinal symptoms in women going through menopause. Menopause is a period in which a woman experiences profound changes in her physiological, psychological, and social life due to the decrease in estrogen and progesterone hormones. Changes in digestive system functions are particularly common during this period; gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal pain significantly reduce the quality of life.
The scope of the study focuses on investigating the manageability of these symptoms that occur during menopause with reflexology and acupressure, which are complementary and alternative medicine methods. Reflexology is a method based on the assumption that specific points on the soles of the feet are connected to the relevant organs in the body, aiming to increase blood circulation and regulate organ functions. Acupressure, based on Chinese medicine, aims to regulate energy flow and reduce symptoms by applying finger pressure to specific acupuncture points. Both methods are increasingly recommended for symptom management during menopause due to their non-invasive nature, low side effects, and ease of application.
This research will be conducted at Osmaniye State Hospital and will be limited to menopausal women who apply to this institution. Participants' demographic characteristics, duration of menopause, health history, and gastrointestinal symptom levels will be assessed using a Demographic Information Form and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). The application process will be carried out in accordance with standard reflexology and acupressure protocols, and changes in symptoms will be analyzed using pre-test and post-test measurements. The study also aims to reveal the effects of gastrointestinal symptoms experienced during menopause on women's quality of life; This study aims to provide evidence-based data on complementary methods that can be integrated into nursing care, in addition to pharmacological treatments. The limited number of studies in the literature addressing the effects of complementary medicine practices during menopause makes this research unique from both a clinical and academic perspective.
Detailed description
Menopause is a transitional period in which women experience profound changes in their physiological, psychological, and social lives due to the decrease in estrogen and progesterone hormones. During this process, significant changes are observed, particularly in digestive system functions, as a result of hormonal fluctuations. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal pain, frequently encountered during menopause, significantly reduce women's daily activities and overall quality of life.
Intervention Methods and Mechanisms of Action
This research deeply examines the effectiveness of non-invasive, low-side-effect, and practically applicable complementary and alternative medicine methods in managing these gastrointestinal symptoms. The theoretical framework of two main interventions to be applied in this study is as follows:
Foot Reflexology: This is based on the principle that specific reflex points on the soles of the feet are directly connected to the relevant organs, glands, and systems in the body. Manipulations performed on these points according to standard protocols aim to increase blood circulation, relax the nervous system, and directly support the normal functions of the gastrointestinal system.
Acupressure: Based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, this method involves applying systematic pressure with the fingertips to specific acupuncture points to balance the flow of energy in the body. This stimulation aims to regulate nerve transmission, relieve spasms and blockages in the digestive system, and thus alleviate gastrointestinal complaints.
Clinical Significance and Contribution to the Literature While routine pharmacological treatments are common in the management of menopausal symptoms, there is a growing need for holistic approaches that can be integrated into these treatments and have no side effects. The limited number of studies in the literature examining the specific direct effects of complementary medicine practices on the gastrointestinal system and their impact on quality of life in menopausal women makes this study highly unique in terms of both clinical practice and academic literature. The findings of this research will contribute to the creation of evidence-based, independent, and effective nursing interventions that can be integrated into standard nursing care plans in addition to pharmacological methods.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Supportive care
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 3
- Model description
- This research will be conducted using a quasi-experimental (pre-test - post-test control group) design. The aim is to measure changes in gastrointestinal symptoms in menopausal women by applying foot reflexology and acupressure for a specific period of time.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Foot Reflexology | Experimental | Other: Foot Reflexology |
| Acupressure | Experimental | Other: Acupressure |
| control | No intervention | – |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 45 to 65 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Being between 45 and 60 years of age,
- Being in menopause,
- Experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms,
- Agreeing to participate in the study voluntarily.
Key exclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Individuals with chronic gastrointestinal disease,
- Individuals receiving regular medication will not be included in the study.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Foot ReflexologyMenopausal women assigned to the foot reflexology group will receive a standardized reflexology protocol administered by a trained/certified researcher. The steps and standards of the intervention are as follows: Preparation: The application will be conducted in a quiet room with adjusted lighting and temperature. The participant will be positioned on a bed in a supine or semi-sitting position (approximately 45 degrees) with their legs supported. An unscented and non-allergenic massage oil or lotion will be used to reduce friction and maintain skin integrity. Warm-up and Relaxation: Before starting the specific procedure, a brief relaxation massage using effleurage and petrissage techniques will be applied to both feet to increase blood circulation and prepare the tissues. Target Area Applications: Following the warm-up, the focus will be directed to specific reflex points aimed at alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms, which is the primary objective of the study. Using thumb-walkin | Other | Foot Reflexology |
| AcupressureDescription: Menopausal women assigned to the acupressure group will receive a standardized acupressure protocol administered by a trained/certified practitioner. The steps and standards of the intervention are as follows: Preparation: The application will be conducted in a quiet, well-ventilated room with appropriate lighting and temperature to ensure the participant's comfort. The participant will be placed in a relaxed, comfortable position (supine or seated) that allows the practitioner easy access to the targeted acupressure points. Target Area Applications: The intervention involves applying physical pressure to specific acupuncture points based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles to regulate energy flow (Qi) and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. The practitioner will focus on key acupoints known to support the stomach, intestines, and overall digestive system, as well as points that promote systemic relaxation and autonomic nervous system balance. Application Techni | Other | Acupressure |
Primary outcome
Primary Outcome Measure Change from Baseline in Gastrointestinal Symptom Scores as Measured by the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS)
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8 (8 weeks)
Gastrointestinal symptoms will be quantified using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), a validated, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 15 items grouped into five domains: abdominal pain, reflux, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation. Each item is rated on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = no discomfort to 7 = very severe discomfort). Domain scores and total GSRS score will be calculated as the mean of item scores, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The primary endpoint is the change in total GSRS score from baseline to Week 8.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 28 Jul 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Related trials for Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Not yet recruitingPhase 1
Hepatic Artery Infusion of Carfilzomib in Participants With Liver Metastatic Disease Previously Treated With Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy
Colorectal Neoplasms, Neoplasms
Recruiting
Safety and Performance of UCon Patch Electrode
Urinary Incontinence, Urinary Incontinence, Urge
Active, not recruitingPhase 2
A Study of Sequential Therapy With Daplusiran/Tomligisiran (DAP/TOM) Followed by Bepirovirsen in Participants Living With Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB)
Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection, Hepatitis B
Recruiting
Effects of a Prebiotic-Probiotic Combination on Constipation Symptoms and Quality of Life
Constipation, Abdominal Pain
Not yet recruiting
Double Plasma Separation and Adsorption in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (DPMAS-ACLF Trial)
Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF)
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Foot Reflexology and Acupressure in people with Gastrointestinal Symptoms, run by Osmaniye Korkut Ata University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 2 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 28 Jul 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Primary Outcome Measure Change from Baseline in Gastrointestinal Symptom Scores as Measured by the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) (time frame: Baseline and Week 8 (8 weeks)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 28 Jul 2026.