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Comparative effects of traditional Thai abdominal massage versus prune consumption on constipation and quality of life in elderly women: A randomized controlled trial.

  • 2025-11-25
  • Aging clinical and experimental research 37(1)
    • Adeleh Assadollahzadeh
    • Ali Ravari
    • Zahra Assadollahi
    • Tayebeh Mirzaei

Study Design

Type
Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
Sample size
n = 35
Population
105 elderly women with constipation (Rome III criteria)
Methods
Single-blind randomized controlled trial, 8 weeks of Thai abdominal massage, prune consumption (50 g twice weekly), or control
Blinding
Single-blind
Duration
8 weeks

Background

Chronic constipation is common in the elderly, impairing quality of life and increasing healthcare use. While pharmacologic options exist, low-cost non-pharmacological alternatives remain underutilized.

Aims

To compare the effectiveness of traditional Thai abdominal massage versus prune consumption in relieving functional constipation in older women.

Methods

This single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2024 at Rafsanjan Primary Healthcare Centers. One hundred five elderly women with constipation (Rome III criteria) were assigned to Thai abdominal massage, prune consumption (50 g twice weekly), or control (n = 35 each) for 8 weeks. Outcomes included constipation severity (Constipation Assessment Scale, CAS), stool consistency (Bristol Stool Index), pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale, VAS), and quality of life (PAC-QoL).

Results

Thai massage significantly reduced constipation severity (-6.71 ± 2.84), pain (-5.55 ± 1.92), and improved stool consistency (-2.03 ± 0.84) compared to the prune and control groups. Prune consumption showed the greatest improvement in quality of life (+ 0.75 ± 0.44). Group-by-time interaction effects were significant for all outcomes (CAS: F = 33.04; VAS: F = 84.33; Bristol: F = 26.74; QoL: F = 59.33; all p < 0.001).

Discussion

Thai massage was more effective in relieving constipation symptoms, while prunes offered subjective well-being benefits. Mechanistically, massage likely improved colonic motility and reduced anorectal discomfort.

Conclusion

Thai abdominal massage offers a superior, low-cost intervention for functional constipation in elderly women, while prune consumption may complement care through quality-of-life gains.

Research Insights

  • prune→Improved Quality of Life

    Prune consumption showed the greatest improvement in quality of life (+ 0.75 ± 0.44).

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    50 g twice weekly
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