University researchers in Turkey have found that acupressure after gall bladder removal, reduces pain and speeds recovery. A total of 65 patients undergoing laparoscopic gall bladder removal, were randomly assigned to receive either acupressure at four designated points, or light-touch contact as a control. Acupressure was given for 12 minutes at 0, 4 and 8 hours following surgery.
Acupressure was associated with significantly reduced post-operative pain, increased intestinal sounds, and shortened time to first defecation after surgery. The authors conclude that acupressure can be a recommended nursing intervention following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, to reduce acute pain and shorten the time to defecation.
(The effect on gastrointestinal system functions, pain and anxiety of acupressure applied following laparoscopic cholecystectomy operation: A randomised, placebo-controlled study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, May 2021.)