Title : Research on the effectiveness of tianshu acupoint pressure for constipated patients and the analysis of syndrome types
Abstract:
Background: Constipation is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer, liver disease, hemorrhoids, colonic diverticulitis, breast cancer, dementia, cardiovascular disease, asthma, urticaria, and other conditions.
According to the "Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Nursing Four Diagnostic Assessment Guidelines," constipation is categorised into four syndromes: heat-type constipation, cold-type constipation (Yang deficiency constipation), deficiency-type constipation (Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yin deficiency), and Qi stagnation constipation. A clear understanding and identification of constipation syndromes allow a more effective implementation of nursing interventions in clinical practice, ensuring high-quality patient care.
Research Objectives:
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of applying pressure at the Tianshu (ST25) acupoint in improving constipation symptoms in hospitalised patients.
2. Analyse the effects of Tianshu acupoint pressure on different constipation syndromes.
Research Methods and Procedure: This study is an experimental research project conducted by nursing staff trained in traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) nursing techniques. A TCM physician provided consistency training to ensure uniformity in acupuncture point location and pressure techniques. Hospitalised patients with constipation underwent Tianshu acupuncture point pressure therapy to relieve symptoms of constipation.
The Tianshu acupuncture point is located two cun (approximately the width of three fingers) lateral to the navel on both sides.
Acupoint Massage Technique and Duration:
• The therapist applied circular pressure using the thumb pad, exerting a force of approximately 3-5 kg or pressing to a depth of 1-2 cm until the patient felt soreness, numbness, or distention.
• The left and right Tianshu acupuncture points were pressed separately for about 3 minutes each.
• The procedure was performed twice daily at 10 am and 3 PM, ensuring that patients had eaten at least one hour prior to the intervention.
The TCM Constitution Scale was used for body constitution analysis. Study period: July 18, 2024 - January 30, 2025, IRB Approval Number: CF24279B
Results: Data analysis was carried out using the SPSS 25.0 statistical software. The study assessed improvements in constipation symptoms and patient constitution. A total of 30 constipated patients were enroled in the study. The results demonstrated that Tianshu acupuncture point pressure improved the severity of constipation, the frequency of defecation, and the characteristics of the stool. Among the participants, 28 patients had a constitution of Yin deficiency and 2 patient had a constitution of Qi deficiency.
Conclusion: The Tianshu acupuncture point pressure is a simple and effective technique. The results of the study indicate that Tianshu acupuncture stimulation promotes intestinal movements in constipated patients. As a non-invasive adjunct nursing intervention, it can prevent constipation, reduce the need for laxative medications, and reduce healthcare costs. In addition, by understanding their constitution, patients can use this knowledge as a basis for maintaining TCM health. This study also provides clinical nursing staff with a safe, effective, and comfortable method of preventing constipation, serving as a valuable reference for patient care.
