Physiological and Psychological Effects of Different Foot Bath Water Depths on Female University Students

This study examined the physiological and psychological effects of different water depths during foot bathing in healthy female university students. Fifteen participants were randomly assigned to either a 5 cm or 15 cm water level groups. Baseline characteristics were recorded and changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, salivary amylase activity, and subjective assessments (fatigue, stress, relaxation, and sleep quality) were evaluated before and after the foot bath. Mood states were assessed using the Japanese version of the Profile of Mood States, Second Edition (POMS2). This study was approved by the ethics committees of the researchers’ affiliated university. There were no significant changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, or salivary amylase activity in either group before and after foot bathing. However, in both groups, the VAS scores for physical fatigue and stress decreased significantly, whereas those for relaxation, refreshment, and warmth increased significantly. Additionally, the POMS2 scores for confusion-bewilderment, fatigue-inertia, and total mood disturbance decreased significantly. Comparisons between the two groups revealed no significant differences in any parameters. These findings suggest that foot baths at both the 5 cm and 15 cm water levels can promote relaxation and reduce fatigue and stress without imposing a physiological burden. Since a 5 cm water-level foot bath requires less water, it may serve as a practical and easily implementable intervention in home care, nursing, and caregiving settings.