Acupressure in MS Patients

Summary

This study aims to evaluate the effects of acupressure therapy on patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and nerve damage. Patients often experience symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, pain, depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, which lower their quality of life and make daily activities challenging. In addition to conventional treatments, complementary therapies can help alleviate these symptoms. Acupressure is a non-invasive technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to regulate energy flow, without using needles.

This research investigates the effects of acupressure on beta-endorphin and hypocretin levels, cognitive functions, and patient-reported symptoms in MS patients. Beta-endorphin is known as a natural pain reliever, while hypocretin plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and energy levels. The study hypothesizes that acupressure can increase the levels of these biochemical substances, improving pain, fatigue, and cognitive functions.

This single-blind, randomized controlled trial will include 82 MS patients. Participants will be divided into two groups: the intervention group (receiving acupressure therapy) and the control group (receiving routine care). The acupressure intervention will be performed twice a week for eight weeks. Participants in the intervention group will learn acupressure techniques and apply them as part of the treatment, while those in the control group will receive acupressure training after the study ends.

Throughout the study, beta-endorphin and hypocretin levels will be measured via blood tests, and cognition, pain, fatigue, depression, and quality of life will be assessed using validated scales. Participants will also report their experiences during the treatment, and the data collected will be analyzed through comparative evaluations.

This research aims to comprehensively analyze the effects of acupressure on MS patients and provide scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of complementary therapies. The findings may offer an alternative method to improve quality of life and alleviate symptoms for MS patients. Acupressure's simplicity, affordability, and ease of application make it a more accessible and sustainable option. The study will be conducted in compliance with ethical standards, prioritizing participant safety.

Conditions

• Multiple Sclerosis

Interventions

OTHER

Self-acupressure education

Participants will undergo acupressure therapy for 8 weeks, with twice-weekly sessions between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. A certified practitioner will train participants on target points, pressure techniques, frequency, and duration. Practical demonstrations will ensure correct application. Groups of up to 10 participants will be trained in a comfortable setting and practice techniques under supervision until proficient. The treatment protocol, based on literature, focuses on beta-endorphin and hypocretin levels, cognition, and patient-reported outcomes (pain, fatigue, depression, and quality of life). Participants will apply 3-5 kg pressure for 2 minutes per point at 12 symmetrical points (LI4, SP6, GV20, HT7, EX-HN3, LV3) using rhythmic movements, totaling 24 minutes. They will receive a diary to track home practices and a visual guide explaining each point's location and steps for application.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Abant Izzet Baysal University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Seyma Demir Erbas, PhD · Abant Izzet Baysal University

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

65 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-03-18

Primary Completion

2026-01-06

Completion

2026-01-06