Evaluating Efficacy of P-6 vs. CV-24 Acupressure Points in Controlling Severity of Gag Reflex

Abstract

Introduction: Gagging compromises treatment, affects patient compliance and vexes the operator. Acupressure is one of the non-pharmacological modes which have been cited in literature as an effective method in controlling the severity of gag reflex. Aim: The study aims at evaluation and comparison of the efficacy of using acupressure points CV-24 and P-6 in controlling the severity of gag reflex. Materials and Methods: Thirty students who qualified inclusion criteria and scored 7 or above on the ‘Predictive Gagging scale’ which categorised them as severe gaggers were included in the study from October 2017 to March 2018. Customised bands were fabricated for application of acupressure. The gag reflex was triggered; pre and post application of acupressure and the scores were noted on the Dickinson and Fiske’s GagIndex. One point was tested in one subject during one phase. The study was carried out in 3 phases to avoid the overlapping effect of acupressure at any point. A sham point was included in the study to maintain objectivity and eliminate subject and operator bias. The points to be evaluated and compared were Point A (P-6), Point B (CV-24), Point C (placebo). Results: It was observed that as (p<0.05) is the level of significance, CV-24 is more effective than P6 in controlling the gag reflex in adults within the set age group of 18-28 years of age. Conclusion: Acupressure is an effective modality in controlling gag reflex and can be helpful adjuvant in addressing unfavourable gag incidences during routine dental practise. Acupressure at Point CV-24 is better in controlling the severity of gag-reflex.

Keywords

• conception vessel-24
• cun
• customised acupressure bands
• gag severity
• pericardium-6