Effect of a Magnesium Sulfate Footbath on Primary Dysmenorrhea Pain

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common condition characterized by painful menstruation. This three-arm randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of a warm-water footbath containing magnesium sulfate on primary dysmenorrhea pain. A total of 120 women were randomized to a magnesium sulfate warm-water footbath group, a warm-water footbath group, or a no-intervention control group. Pain was assessed using the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire and a Visual Analogue Scale at baseline, 20 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours after the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria: * Women aged 18-35 years * Having regular menstrual cycles * Experiencing primary dysmenorrhea * Having a menstrual pain score of at least 3 on the Visual Analogue Scale * Engaging in physical activity no more than twice per week * Having a body mass index of 29.9 kg/m² or lower * Willing to participate and providing informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Previous childbirth * Presence of varicose veins, open wounds, or skin lesions on the feet or lower legs * Presence of an acute or chronic foot condition * Medical advice against warm-water footbath use * Use of hormonal contraceptives * Frequent use of anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications