Acupressure for reducing abdominal pain in patients receiving care in the hospital

Abstract

Abdominal colic is a visceral pain condition characterized by intermittent abdominal discomfort resulting from obstruction, distension, muscular contraction, or inflammation of intra-abdominal organs. If left untreated, this pain can significantly impair the patient's quality of life and interfere with daily activities. Acupressure therapy is recognized as an effective non-pharmacological intervention for pain reduction, achieved through stimulation of meridian points that promote endorphin release. This study aims to implement acupressure therapy as a nursing intervention to alleviate pain in patients experiencing abdominal colic. The method employed is a descriptive case study using a nursing care approach, conducted on a patient treated in the Aster 5 Room of Tidar Regional Hospital, Magelang City. Acupressure was administered over three consecutive days at the Hegu (LI4) and Zusanli (ST36) points. The results demonstrated a reduction in pain intensity from a score of 6 to 2 following the intervention. Daily evaluations indicated improvements in patient comfort and sleep quality. In conclusion, acupressure therapy proved effective as a non-pharmacological strategy for managing abdominal colic pain and holds potential for broader integration into clinical nursing practice.

Keywords: Complementary therapy, acupressure, abdominal pain, hospital care, healthcare services