The effects of cold application on blood pressure in patients with hypertension: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.

AIM: This study evaluated the effects of cold application to the back of the neck on blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

BACKGROUND

The back of the neck is an area rich in muscles, nerves, and acupuncture points. Cold application is used as an independent nursing intervention to manage hypertension.

METHODS

This randomized placebo-controlled study was conducted with a total of 72 hypertensive patients (24 experimental, 24 placebo, and 24 control subjects) admitted to the emergency department of a hospital. After their baseline measurements were carried out, the patients were given sublingual captopril; next, a cold gel pack was applied to the experimental group for three minutes.

RESULTS

There was a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in the experimental group during the first 27 min following cold application compared to the placebo and control group (p < 0.05). Further, there was a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure during the first 17 min following cold application in the experimental group compared to the placebo and control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant decrease in headache severity was observed in the experimental group compared to the control group during 12 min after application.

CONCLUSIONS

It was found that cold application to the back of the neck reduced blood pressure in patients with hypertension.