Acupressure therapy to improve muscle strength in patient with ischemic stroke

Abstract

Stroke is a severe cerebrovascular disorder characterized by reduced or obstructed blood and oxygen flow to the brain, which leads to tissue damage and impaired neurological function. Globally, it remains the second leading cause of death and a primary driver of long-term disability. One of the most debilitating consequences of a stroke is motor impairment or hemiparesis; approximately 88% of survivors experience a loss of limb control and reduced muscle strength, which severely impacts their ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADL). To address these functional deficits, acupressure serves as an effective non-pharmacological intervention designed to mitigate muscle weakness and restore extremity function. This research employed a single explanatory case study approach to investigate the relationship between acupressure therapy and its effectiveness in improving muscle strength among ischemic stroke patients at Tidar Regional Hospital, Magelang City. Upon the initial assessment, the patient exhibited an upper extremity muscle strength scale of 3. The intervention focused on the scapula area, specifically targeting points LI 15, SI 9, TE 14, GB 21, SI 11, and SI 12. Following consistent therapy over a 3x24-hour period, the patient's muscle strength scale successfully increased to 4. These results suggest that acupressure is a potent supportive therapy that can significantly enhance muscle recovery and functional independence in ischemic stroke patients.

Keywords: Acupressure, complementary therapy, ischaemic stroke, muscle strength, nursing care