Hydrotherapy and acupressure for restless legs syndrome: results of a qualitative part of a randomized controlled exploratory study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) has a negative impact on quality of life and remains challenging to treat. This study explored the subjective experiences of individuals using two self-managed, non-pharmacological interventions-hydrotherapy and acupressure-for RLS, focusing on their perceived benefits, challenges, and feasibility in everyday life.

Methods

Within a three-armed randomized study we conducted qualitative interviews in both intervention groups. The semi-structured interviews were coded and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Coding followed both an inductive approach, grounded in the data, and a deductive approach, guided by the study objectives. Data analysis was carried out using MAXQDA® software.

Results

A total of 12 telephone intervie

SUBMITTER: Siewert J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12433941 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature