Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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Abstract
A Pharyngeal reflex or Gag reflex is a protective mechanism by which foreign particles are prevented from aspiration into the upper respiratory tract. The palatoglossal and palatopharyngeal folds in conjunction with the base of tongue, palate, uvula and posterior pharyngeal wall have been recognised as the “Trigger areas”, which are specific to each individual. The present research were to modify gag reflex in children with acupressure and to compare point Hegu with Yintang and a placebo point. The study was carried out from November 2021 to April 2022 in the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Manav Rachna Dental College. Total sample size 165. Estimated sample size for each group = 55 children were selected to participate in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. 2 acupressure points used in the study were Yintang and Hegu point and a placebo point was added in the study to eliminate bias. Group 1: Hegu point Group 2: Yintang point Group 3: Placebo (PC‐3) With the help of a ball/t‐ burnisher, Gag was induced and the scoring was recorded according to the Gag Severity Index. After waiting for 2 min, gentle finger pressure was applied for 1 min on the allocated acupoint. After 1 min, pressure was increased, simultaneously Gag was induced and scoring was done according to the index. Results were recorded. Trigger zones identified were posterior pharyngeal wall, posterior faucial pillar, palatoglossal arch and internal cheek. The mean age of the children involving all three groups was 11.09±1.87 years. Of the total sample of 165, the ratio of girls (34.55%) was less than boys (65.45%) in the groups. Wilcoxon sign rank test was carried out to determine the difference between and within groups (pre and post intervention). All statistical tests were performed at a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). The current study has described acupressure at point Yintang and Hegu as effective in altering gag reflex in children of age 8‐14 years, this is in accordance with a study conducted by Sivinagini and Agrawal, who reported that point Hegu is successful in regulating gag reflex. There are varying reasons why acupressure was selected over acupuncture. There is a need to give some information regarding the safety of acupuncturing, incorrect insertion of needle, risk of cross infection and injury to tissues. According to a meta‐analysis between acupuncture, acupressure, laser acupuncture and electrical stimulation in controlling post‐operative vomiting in children and reported acupressure to be equally effective. The current study has reported that Hegu point and Yintang point are effective in altering gag reflex in children aged 8‐14 years and Yintang point is more effective than Hegu point.
How to cite this article:
M. Piraveen, Shruthi Chopra, Naresh Sharma, Shveta Sood, Akshara Singh, Madhulika Srivastava and Puneet Khari. Modifying Gag Reflex in Children with Acupressure: A Clinical Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.721.725
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.721.725