CLINICAL RESEARCH POSTER PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Please note: All posters will be displayed in
Salons 10-12.
THURSDAY, 5:30-6:15 PM
Harris RE, Jeter J, Chan P, Higgins P, Kong S, Fazel
R, Bramson C, Gillespie B, Cohort 11 of the University of Michigan Clinical
Research Design and Statistical Analysis Program.
Using acupressure to modify alertness in the classroom:
a single-blind, randomized, crossover trial.
University of Michigan reharris@med.umich.edu
BACKGROUND: Previous reports have suggested
that acupressure is effective in reducing pain and improving sleep quality;
however, its effects on alertness have not been characterized.
PURPOSE: To determine if two different acupressure
treatments have opposing effects on alertness in a full-day classroom
setting.
METHODS: Crossover (2-treatments; 3-periods),
single-blind, randomized trial. Subjects were randomized to two acupressure
treatment sequences: stimulation-relaxation-relaxation or relaxation-stimulation-stimulation.
Acupressure treatments were self-administered over three consecutive
days. Pre- and post-treatment alertness scores were assessed each day
utilizing the Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS). Changes in the SSS score
(afternoon to morning) were analyzed using a mixed regression model
of fixed and random effects. Important factors expected to affect alertness,
such as caffeine and previous night's sleep, were also assessed.
RESULTS: Baseline characteristics and protocol
compliance were similar between the two sequences. Stimulation acupressure
treatment yielded a 0.56 point greater difference in score on the SSS,
corresponding to less fatigue, as compared to the relaxation acupressure
treatment (p=0.019). Day of study (p=0.004) and hours of overnight sleep
(p=0.042) also significantly affected the change in SSS scores. Incorporating
participants' beliefs as to which treatment they received did not significantly
alter the observed treatment effect.
CONCLUSIONS: Acupressure at stimulation and
relaxation points has differential effects on alertness in a classroom
setting. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings and
to determine whether stimulation and relaxation acupressure are equally
effective in influencing alertness.
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