Comparing the effect of cold and warm stimulation of Hoku point on pain Caused by Removal of External Fixators pin in patients with hand fractures

Introduction: One of the most common complaints in patients during the pin is removed from the metacarpal bone fracture is pain. Topical warm and cold therapy have effects on the skin so that it can relieve pain. On the other hand, according to traditional Chinese medicine, the Hoku point is the most crucial pain point in the body. This study aimed to compare the effect of cold and warm stimulation of Hoku point on pain Caused by Removal of External Fixators pin in patients with hand fractures. Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was performed on 109 patients with metacarpal finger fracture with an external pin referring to the emergency department of Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan in 2019. Patients were divided into three groups through block randomization: Huko point massage with ice, Huko lead massage with a warm compress and routine care. The Hoku point massage was done for 10 minutes before the pin was removed. Patients' pain severity was measured by the McGill pain questionnaire immediately after removing the pin in all three groups. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA.