Effect of Abdominal I LOVE U massage and Dietary Modification on Constipation and Distension among Patients with Stroke

Background: Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complications that are following a stroke. Nurses play a vital role in its management through non-pharmacological interventions. Aim: To evaluate the effect of abdominal I LOVEU massage and dietary modification on constipation and distension among patients with stroke. Design: A quasi-experimental design was used with a study and control group. Setting: The study was conducted in the Neurology Department at Assiut University Hospital. Sample: A purposive sample of 60 adult stroke. Tools: Tool (1) Patient demographic and medical data assessment form, Tool (2) Constipation Assessment sheet, and Tool (3) Food intake and defecation daily checklist. Results: Patients in the study group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in constipation and abdominal distension compared to the control group on days 6 and 10 post-intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The “I LOVE U” abdominal massage combined with dietary modifications is an effective non-pharmacological nursing intervention for reducing constipation and abdominal distension among stroke patients. Recommendations: Incorporating the “I LOVE U” abdominal massage into routine nursing care for stroke patients is recommended.