The effect of foot massage during Non-Stress Testing (NST) on fetal parameters, maternal satisfaction and anxiety levels: A randomized controlled trial

The Effect Of Foot Massage During Non-stress Testing (NST) On Fetal Parameters, Maternal Satisfaction and Anxiety Levels: A randomized Controlled Trial Aim: This study was conducted to determine the effect of foot massage during Non-Stress Test (NST) on maternal anxiety, fetal parameters, and maternal satisfaction. Material and Method: This randomized controlled study was conducted in the NST unit of Battalgazi State Hospital, Malatya, between September 2025 and April 2026. A total of 128 pregnant women at 32–40 weeks of gestation were randomly assigned to the foot massage (n=64) or control group (n=64). Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the State Anxiety Inventory, the NST Record Form, and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The intervention group received a 15-minute foot massage during NST monitoring, whereas the control group received routine NST monitoring only. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent and paired samples t-tests, chi-square test, and ANCOVA. Results: Following the intervention, anxiety scores decreased significantly in the foot massage group (p<0.001), whereas no significant change was observed in the control group (p>0.05). ANCOVA revealed significantly lower post-test anxiety scores in the foot massage group after controlling for baseline values (p<0.001, partial η²=0.729). Compared with the control group, the foot massage group had a shorter NST duration and higher numbers of fetal movements and accelerations (p<0.05). The mean satisfaction score in the foot massage group was 94.39±8.28. Conclusion: Foot massage during NST was effective in reducing maternal anxiety, improving some fetal reactivity parameters, and increasing satisfaction. As a simple, non-invasive intervention, foot massage can be incorporated into routine prenatal care during NST to enhance comfort and support fetal health. Keywords: Anxiety, fetal parameters, foot massage, non-stress test, satisfaction