The Potential Role of Physical Activity in Reducing Delirium and Improving Physiological Indicators in Children With Epilepsy Publisher



Golpaygani V ; Aliakbari M ; Mesgari F ; Aghaei F
Source: Journal of Chemical Health Risks Published:2026

Abstract

Foot reflexology is recognized as a holistic therapeutic approach that fosters relaxation and enhances overall well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of foot reflexology massage on the incidence of delirium and selected physiological parameters in pediatric patients admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Conducted as a randomized clinical trial at Hazrat Ali Asghar Hospital, affiliated with Iran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran, the research involved 74 participants who were randomly assigned to either an intervention or a control group. While the control group received only standard medical care, the intervention group received foot reflexology massage in addition to routine care. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire, a physiological parameters checklist, and the Pediatric Delirium Cornell Assessment Tool, administered both before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 23. Findings revealed that by the second day post-intervention, the incidence of delirium in the intervention group had significantly decreased compared to the control group (P = 0.004). Furthermore, immediately following the intervention, heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure in the intervention group were all significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.001, P < 0.026, and P < 0.002, respectively). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups regarding arterial blood oxygen saturation after the intervention (P = 0.5). These results suggest that foot reflexology may be effective in reducing delirium and stabilizing cardiovascular parameters in critically ill children. Although its influence on oxygen saturation remains inconclusive, the findings offer promising evidence for incorporating massage therapy as a non-pharmacological nursing intervention in clinical settings to support the management of delirium and the regulation of vital signs. © 2026, Islamic Azad University. All rights reserved.