Addressing constipation in people with Parkinson’s disease through complementary self-care interventions: A mixed method pilot study.

Background: Self-care plays an essential role in managing chronic conditions, empowering individuals to improve their health and reduce reliance on health care services. Self-care has shown benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease, but research remains limited, particularly in managing constipation, a common symptom exacerbated by motor fluctuations, polypharmacy, and comorbidities. Current research into best practices for managing constipation in Parkinson’s disease is inadequate. Complementary therapies like reflexology have been anecdotally linked to improving bowel function, but evidence is lacking. Methods: This pilot mixed methods study used an explanatory sequential design. 11 participants were recruited over six weeks, to investigate if complementary self-care interventions, including reflexology and lifestyle modifications, could alleviate constipation for people with Parkinson’s disease. A single-group test-retest approach collected quantitative pre- and post-intervention data from the Constipation Severity Instrument and daily bowel diaries. A statistical comparison was conducted with a threshold of p < .05. Qualitative thematic analysis of post-project questionnaires and interviews provided deeper insights into participants’ experiences.

Results: Nine participants improved in at least one bowel diary indicator, with a statistically significant result in the obstructive defecation subscale of the Constipation Severity Instrument (p =.015). Findings suggest that integrating complementary self-care interventions with behavioural change techniques empowers people and may alleviate constipation in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Conclusion: This New Zealand based study revealed that while complementary self-care interventions show promise in managing constipation in Parkinson’s disease, their effectiveness varied among participants. The small sample size and intervention diversity limit definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the study highlights the complexity of managing Parkinson’s disease and the benefits of self-care, personalised approaches and reducing stress. Reflexology emerged as a valuable relaxing self-care practice that complements conventional medicine.

Clinical and research implications: Person-centred care and behavioural change techniques are essential for managing complex chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease. A person-centred approach, which includes education, self-monitoring tools, and support systems, enhances engagement in self-care. Tailoring interventions to individual circumstances and involving significant others can boost motivation and adherence, supporting health outcomes, and empowering patients. Future research should include a randomised control trial, with strict criteria, longer intervention periods, and a larger sample size to strengthen findings.