Published Paper Details:

ABSTRACT Knee joint pain is a common musculoskeletal problem among the geriatric population, significantly affecting their mobility and quality of life. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of hot water application with Epsom salt versus hot water application alone on the level of knee joint pain among geriatrics in a selected area at Karungal, Kanyakumri District. A true experimental research design with a quantitative evaluative approach was adopted. The study included three groups: control group, experimental group I (hot water application with Epsom salt), and experimental group II (hot water application alone). The independent variables were hot water application with Epsom salt and hot water application, while the dependent variable was the level of knee joint pain. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule, including demographic variables and a numerical pain rating scale. The tool's reliability was confirmed using the test-retest method (r = 0.9). A pilot study established feasibility. The conceptual framework was based on the Gate Control Theory by Melzack and Wall. The findings revealed a significant reduction in knee joint pain levels in both experimental groups compared to the control group. However, experimental group I showed greater effectiveness than experimental group II. Statistical analysis (unpaired 't' test) indicated a significant difference between the two interventions. There was no significant association between post-test pain levels and selected demographic variables. The study concluded that hot water application with Epsom salt is more effective than hot water application alone in reducing knee joint pain among geriatrics. The intervention is simple, cost-effective, and can be recommended as a non-pharmacological method for pain management in elderly individuals.