Effect of Swedish massage Versus Progressive muscle relaxation on Blood Glucose Level of Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Swedish massage (SM) and Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) are special techniques that recently used in many chronic disorders as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Both techniques have a crucial role in reducing stress that can lower blood glucose level in children with T1DM. Objective: Investigate the effect of Swedish massage versus progressive muscle relaxation on blood glucose level of children with T1DM. Setting: This study was conducted at the Outpatient diabetic clinic in the Specialized University Hospital at Smouha in Alexandria. Design: A quasi experimental research design was used. Subjects: A convenient sample of 50 diabetic children who were randomly allocated to two equal study groups (study I (SM) and study II (PMR)). Tools: Two tools were used; Socio-demographic and Medical History of Diabetic Children Interview Schedule and Blood glucose level Assessment Tool Results: Swedish massage and progressive muscle relaxation were associated with significant decreases in fasting blood glucose level, random blood glucose level and consequently HbA1C after intervention (P<0.001 for all blood glucose levels).The SM group demonstrated more decrease in fasting blood glucose level, random blood glucose level and consequently HbA1C than PMR group. Where means of HbA1C for SM and PMR were 7.88 ± 0.92 and 9.08 ± 1.08 respectively after intervention and there was a statistical significant difference (P = 0.007). Conclusion: Both techniques are effective to decrease blood glucose levels in diabetic children. While Swedish massage was more effective than PMR. Recommendations: Swedish massage and PMR techniques need to be incorporated in the care of diabetic children.