Role of Acupressure in Managing Fatigue and Improving Daily Functional Performance

Abstract

Fatigue is a common and multidimensional symptom that can reduce physical activity, concentration, productivity, social participation, and independence in daily life. It may occur in association with cancer and its treatment, chronic illness, sleep disturbance, psychological stress, and other health conditions. Acupressure is a non-invasive complementary intervention involving manual stimulation of selected points and has been investigated as a potential approach to fatigue management. This paper reviews the role of acupressure in managing fatigue and improving daily functional performance, with particular attention to cancer-related fatigue, physical and mental fatigue, daily activity, sleep, and quality of life. Evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses is encouraging. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized studies involving 776 cancer participants found that acupressure significantly reduced general, physical, and mental fatigue. A later meta-analysis involving 812 participants also found a statistically significant reduction in fatigue scores. More recent evidence continues to examine acupressure within broader cancer symptom clusters. However, direct evidence on objectively measured daily functional performance is less extensive than evidence on fatigue itself. Acupressure may therefore be considered a complementary component of fatigue management, while individualized assessment, treatment of underlying causes, exercise, sleep management, and appropriate medical care remain important.