Evaluating the Impact of Foot Massage on Pulmonary Function in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Background:Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a significant global health concern, affecting millions annually and contributing to high mortality rates. ACS encompasses unstable angina, non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Patients with ACS often experience respiratory distress due to increased sympathetic activity, necessitating effective, non-invasive interventions to support pulmonary function.Objective:This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of foot massage in improving pulmonary parameters among patients with ACS.Methods:A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Karbala Center for Cardiac Diseases and Surgery. A purposive non-probability sample of 60 patients diagnosed with ACS was divided into an intervention group (receiving foot massage) and a control group (receiving standard care). The intervention group underwent a structured four-step foot massage for 5 minutes per foot. Pulmonary parameters, including respiratory rate (RR) and oxygen saturation (SpO), were assessed at three time points: before the intervention, 5 minutes after, and 10 minutes after. Data collection was structured into two parts: demographic and clinical information and pulmonary function assessment using a standardized physiological checklist.Results:A statistically significant improvement was observed in the pulmonary parameters of the intervention group, with reductions in respiratory rate and increases in oxygen saturation (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant changes were noted in the control group.Conclusion:The findings suggest that foot massage is an effective complementary intervention for enhancing pulmonary function in patients with ACS. This non-invasive, low-cost approach may contribute to better respiratory outcomes and patient well-being.