Rehabilitation Interventions After Cardiac Surgery in Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of foot massage and kinesio taping on functional performance and kinesiophobia in older adults following cardiac surgery. Early mobilization after cardiac surgery is essential for improving recovery outcomes; however, pain, fear of movement (kinesiophobia), and reduced functional capacity may delay rehabilitation in older patients.

Participants aged 65 years and older who have undergone cardiac surgery will be randomly assigned to either a foot massage group or a kinesio taping group. The foot massage group will receive daily bilateral foot massage for seven consecutive days, while the kinesio taping group will receive standardized kinesio taping applications to the foot and ankle region during the same period.

Functional performance, kinesiophobia, pain intensity, cognitive status, and delirium will be assessed using validated outcome measures, including the Timed Up and Go test, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, Visual Analog Scale, Standardized Mini-Mental Test, and Nursing Delirium Screening Scale. Assessments will be conducted preoperatively and on the seventh postoperative day.

The study aims to determine whether non-pharmacological, easily applicable interventions such as foot massage and kinesio taping can enhance functional recovery, reduce fear of movement, and support early mobilization in older adults after cardiac surgery.