Effectiveness of using a vibration device to ease pain during upper extremity injections: A randomized controlled trial

Saudi J Anaesth. 2024 Oct-Dec;18(4):488-495. doi: 10.4103/sja.sja_242_24. Epub 2024 Oct 2.

Abstract

Objectives: The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using a vibration device to ease pain during upper extremity injections. Specifically, the study aims to compare the pain levels of patients who receive the injection with and without the use of vibration therapy. The results of this study may have implications for improving patient outcomes and satisfaction during routine injection procedures.

Material and methods: This randomized controlled trial included patients aged 18 years or older who were scheduled to receive an injection in the upper extremity. A total of 60 patients were enrolled and randomized to either the intervention group or the control group using a computer-generated randomization sequence. The level of satisfaction and pain levels were assessed using a visual analog scale. The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the institutional review board.

Results: The mean pain score immediately after the injection was 4.03 ± 2.11 out of 10 in the vibration group (n = 30), compared to 7.4 ± 1.37 out of 10 in the control group (n = 30) (P < 0.001). Patients in the vibration group also reported higher levels of satisfaction and comfort during the injection (P < 0.001). No adverse events were reported in either group.

Conclusion: Our study proves that using a vibration device during upper extremity injections can effectively reduce postinjection pain and improve patient satisfaction. Further research is needed to explore this intervention's long-term effects and feasibility in different clinical settings.

Keywords: Pain comfort; pain reduction; randomized controlled trial; upper extremity injections; vibration therapy; visual analogue scale.