Date of Award

Spring 4-7-2025

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Susanne Cutshall DNP

Second Advisor

Michelle Higgins DNP

Third Advisor

Michelle Ullery DNP

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Millions of Americans are diagnosed and suffer with chronic pain everyday. Patients with chronic pain typically require frequent and routine healthcare visits to manage many symptoms. This scholarly project evaluated individuals who lack health care accessibility and are currently homeless individuals with chronic pain. Methods: The scholarly project was conducted over three weeks with twenty consistent participants participating in reflexology sessions for their chronic pain. Supportive studies conducted in Greece, Iran, London, United States were included in the synthesis of evidence-based practice about chronic pain and reflexology. The search methods used in this literature review were through CINAHL and PubMed databases. The keywords included chronic pain, fibromyalgia, reflexology, disability, treatment, healthcare, and reduced pain. Results: Findings indicated that reflexology was easily teachable and effective in reducing the participants pain by 50% from baseline pain level. Supportive studies showed that NSAIDs, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, diet modifications, and reflexology had decreased symptoms for those with chronic pain. Conclusion: Reflexology is an effective integrative therapy option for those who have chronic pain and teachable to perform on others and self for therapy. Supportive literature indicates NSAIDs, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, diet modifications, and reflexology need to be studied in a control group to further understand the long-term effects of those with chronic pain.

Keywords: chronic pain, homelessness, reflexology, disability, treatment, healthcare, and reduced pain

Identifier

SC 11.DNP.2025.Scheiber.A.M.

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