OBJECTIVES: To determine the relative
effects of cobblestone mat walking, in comparison with
regular walking,
on physical function and blood pressure in older adults.
DESIGN:
Randomized trial with allocation to cobblestone mat walking or conventional
walking.
SETTING: General community in Eugene,
Oregon.
PARTICIPANTS: One hundred eight physically inactive
community-dwelling adults aged 60 to 92
(mean age+/-standard deviation =77.5+/-5.0) free of neurological and mobility-limiting orthopedic
conditions.
INTERVENTION: Participants were randomized to a
cobblestone mat walking condition (n=54)
or regular walking comparison
condition (n=54) and participated in 60-minute group exercise
sessions
three times per week for 16 consecutive weeks.
MEASUREMENTS: Primary
endpoint measures were balance (functional reach, static standing),
physical performance (chair stands, 50-foot walk, Up and Go), and blood
pressure (systolic,
diastolic). Secondary endpoint measures were Short
Form-12 physical and mental health scores
and perceptions of
health-related benefits from exercise.
RESULTS: At the 16-week posttest,
differences between the two exercise groups were found
for balance
measures (P=.01), chair stands (P<.001), 50-foot walk (P=.01), and blood
pressure
(P=.01) but not for the Up and Go test (P=.14). Although
significant within-group changes were
observed in both groups for the
secondary outcome measures, there were no differences
between
intervention groups.
CONCLUSION: Cobblestone mat walking improved
physical function and reduced blood
pressure to a greater extent than
conventional walking in older adults. Additional benefits of this
walking program included improved health-related quality of life. This new
physical activity may
provide a therapeutic and health-enhancing
exercise alternative for older adults.
The effect of foot massage with
biofeedback: a pilot study to
enhance health
promotion.
Jirayingmongkol P, Chantein S,
Phengchomjan N, Bhanggananda N. Nursing and Health Sciences. 2002
Aug;4(3 Suppl):A4
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Proactive health-care services emphasize health promotion and the prevention of disabling
conditions. Currently, in Thai society, the number of elderly with deteriorating health has
increased. Therefore, self-care health promotion activities have become essential in order for
the elderly to maintain their well-being.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of foot massage with biofeedback.
Foot massage, a Thai primary self-care custom, has been found to enhance blood circulation,
relaxation, and one's own healing power. In addition, touch has been found to stimulate
secretion of endorphins and reduce pain and anxiety. It appears therefore that foot massage,
or reflexology, promotes a healthy lifestyle for all age groups.
An experimental study, utilizing a pilot project in elderly health care, was employed to
investigate the effects of biofeedback using foot massage. A pretest/post-test
quasi-experimental design was used.
The sample consisted of four men and 16 women (age range 61-69 years). Four trained
researchers massaged the feet of the subjects and measured vital-sign changes. Biofeedback
also was investigated before and after the foot massages.
Results showed that the average biofeedback and temperature were lower before than after
the foot massage (P < 0.01). The average pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure,
however, were found to be higher before rather than after the foot massage ( P < 0.01).
It was concluded that the foot massage provided good circulation, relaxation, and comfort. All
subjects expressed positive feelings when they received the foot massage (i.e. 'It is very nice
that foot massage can relieve my joint pain, I am happy and comfortable'). These findings
appear to indicate that foot massage is beneficial both for physical and mental conditions. Foot
massage, however, is just one key to achieving a full range of primary health-care services. It
needs to not only be performed by nurses. Families, also, can provide foot massage for the
elderly, anywhere and anytime.
