The Effectiveness of Combined Tuina at Points LI 11, LI 4, and GV 14 on Reducing Body Temperature in Fever in Children Aged 10–16 Years

Abstract

Fever is a common clinical condition among school-aged children and adolescents and may be associated with dehydration, discomfort, and reduced daily functioning if inadequately managed. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combined Tuina stimulation at LI 11 (Quchi), LI 4 (Hegu), and GV 14 (Dazhui) in reducing body temperature among children with fever. A quantitative quasi-experimental study with a one-group pretest–posttest design was conducted at Harmoni Wellness Clinic. Thirty children aged 10–16 years with axillary temperatures of 37.5–39.0°C were selected using purposive sampling. Participants received a single 6–10-minute Tuina session, and axillary temperature was measured before the intervention and at 15, 30, and 60 minutes afterward. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Shapiro–Wilk test, and paired-samples t-tests. The mean baseline temperature was 38.35°C and progressively decreased to 38.10°C, 37.75°C, and 37.50°C at 15, 30, and 60 minutes, respectively. The corresponding mean reductions were 0.25°C, 0.60°C, and 0.85°C. All pre–post comparisons were statistically significant (p < .001), with the greatest reduction observed at 60 minutes. In conclusion, combined Tuina stimulation at LI 11 (Quchi), LI 4 (Hegu), and GV 14 (Dazhui) was associated with a significant reduction in body temperature among febrile children and may be considered a complementary nonpharmacological intervention alongside appropriate conventional care.