Vol. 2 No. 4 (2026): Agustus
Articles

WATER IMMERSION CONTRAST BATH TRAINING FOR MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN IN OLDER ADULTS

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  • Bambang Trisnowiyanto,
  • Fendy Nugroho
Bambang Trisnowiyanto
Poltekkes Kemenkes Surakarta
Fendy Nugroho
Poltekkes Kemenkes Surakarta

Published 2026-08-20

Keywords

  • contrast bath,
  • older adults,
  • musculoskeletal pain,
  • community empowerment,
  • physiotherapy

Abstract

The growing number of older adults in Indonesia is accompanied by a higher prevalence of degenerative musculoskeletal complaints, particularly muscle and joint pain. In Senden, Tohudan Village, Colomadu, Karanganyar, older residents have limited knowledge of independent, non-pharmacological pain management. This community service programme aimed to improve the knowledge and independence of integrated health post cadres and older adults in applying the water immersion contrast bath method. The programme was delivered through health education, demonstration, hands-on practice, and mentoring across four sessions involving 32 participants. Understanding was measured before and after the programme using a five-item questionnaire with a four-point scale, programme benefit was assessed with a six-item questionnaire, and suggestions were collected through an open-ended question. Data were analysed descriptively and with the Wilcoxon signed rank test. The mean understanding score increased from 8.91 to 17.38 out of 20, and all participants moved from the two lowest categories into the understanding and fully understanding categories (Z = -4.963; p < 0.001; r = 0.62). The benefit index reached 91.1%, and most participants expected the programme to become a routine activity of the integrated health post for older adults.

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