A Study on the Efficacy of Acupoint Plaster Application Combined with Massage Therapy for Cardiovascular-Related Symptoms and Functional Status in Elderly Patients with Cervical Spondylosis in Long-Term Care Facilities

Abstract Objective Among elderly residents in long-term care facilities, the incidence of cervical spondylosis significantly increases due to aging, prolonged static postures, and reduced physical activity. Epidemiological studies indicate that the prevalence exceeds 70% among individuals aged 65 and older, often accompanied by neck pain, limited mobility, and diminished quality of life. This condition represents a major chronic disease affecting geriatric health. Purpose This study is the first to focus on the elderly population in nursing homes, systematically evaluating the clinical efficacy of acupoint plaster application combined with massage therapy for cervical spondylosis in this group. Specifically, it aims to validate the synergistic improvement effects of this combined intervention on cardiovascular - related symptoms (such as dizziness and blood pressure fluctuations) induced by cervical spondylosis, as well as on the overall functional status (including pain levels, cervical dysfunction, and activities of daily living). This research provides evidence - based support for optimizing comprehensive care protocols for cervical spondylosis in this special population. Methods A single - blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. From September 2024 to June 2025, 126 elderly patients with cervical spondylosis (all presenting cardiovascular - related manifestations such as dizziness and blood pressure fluctuations due to cervical lesions) were selected from multiple nursing homes in a city in Anhui Province. Patients were randomly assigned using a random number table to either the control group (n = 63) or the experimental group (n = 63). The control group received acupoint plaster therapy using the clinically validated, safe New An Medicine Intangible Cultural Heritage Plaster (containing anti - allergic components). The experimental group received acupoint plaster therapy combined with standardized massage intervention. Both groups underwent a 6 - week intervention period. Results The two groups were balanced and comparable at baseline. The total effective rate in the experimental group (92.06%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (77.78%, P < 0.05). After treatment, the experimental group had significantly lower visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and cervical dysfunction index (NDI) scores compared to the control group (P < 0.001), while showing significantly higher activities of daily living (ADL) scores (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the improvement magnitude across all indicators exceeded that of the control group. There was a significant improvement in cardiovascular - related manifestations: The frequency of dizziness episodes decreased significantly more in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.001), and the control of blood pressure fluctuations was also significantly superior to that in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion The combination of acupoint plaster application and massage therapy significantly enhances the treatment outcomes for elderly patients with cervical spondylosis in nursing homes. Compared to plaster application alone, this integrated approach demonstrates superior efficacy in alleviating pain, improving neck function, and enhancing activities of daily living. It also reduces cardiovascular - related symptoms such as dizziness episodes and stabilizes blood pressure fluctuations. The treatment is safe to administer and suitable for nursing home settings, showing clinical value for widespread adoption.