Acupressure as a Complementary Method for Body Awareness in the Context of Integrative Palliative and Hospice Care (AKiPAL)
Scientific management: Priv.-Doz. Dr. Dr. Julia Strupp
Care management: Eva Marie Bothe B. Sc., Lisanne Herzhoff M. Sc.
Research associates: Melanie Joshi, M. A., Mareike Löbberding M. Sc.
Duration: 01.05.2026 - 30.04.2028
Funding Institution: Karl und Veronica Carstens-Stiftung
Contact: palliativzentrum-akipal@uk-koeln.de
Project Description
People with severe, incurable illnesses who require palliative care often suffer from distressing physical and psychosocial symptoms. Acupressure is a touch-based therapy derived from traditional Chinese medicine. Studies have already demonstrated a positive effect on nausea, pain, anxiety, and the quality of life of patients in palliative care. Given the physical changes that occur at the end of life—such as weight loss, lymphedema, and functional limitations—body perception is often altered in patients in palliative care and is perceived as a burden. Improved body awareness can contribute to a more positive self-image and enhance social participation as well as interaction with family members and care staff. Although there is preliminary evidence that acupressure may indirectly improve body awareness, scientific evidence is lacking. The aim of the study is therefore to gather initial evidence regarding the feasibility, acceptance, and potential effects of acupressure on symptom relief and body awareness in various care settings (palliative care unit, palliative care consultation service, specialized outpatient palliative care, hospice).
Methods:
- Training of nursing staff at the differnt care settings and administration of acupressure to patients
- Questionnaire survey on symptom burden and body perception at the beginning and end of study participation
- Interview question on body perception at the beginning and end of study participation
- Interview on satisfaction with acupressure at the end of study participation
- Collection of routine data from patient records
- Interviews with nursing staff regarding their experience with and the feasibility of implementing acupressure in daily clinical practice
