Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study explores the combined therapeutic effects of pediatric massage and vitamin D supplementation on the nutritional status, immune function (serum IL-4 and IL-5), and clinical outcomes in children with Bronchial asthma (BA). METHODS: A total of 60 children diagnosed with BA were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a control group receiving conventional treatment alone and an experimental group receiving conventional treatment alongside pediatric massage and daily vitamin D supplementation. Both groups were monitored over two months for changes in clinical symptoms, immune markers (CD 3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8 + ratio), nutritional protein levels (albumin, transferrin, prealbumin, and total protein), and recurrence rates. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significantly faster symptom relief and improved immune function than the control group. This included enhanced immune markers, such as increased CD3+ and CD4+ counts and an improved CD 4+/CD 8+ ratio. Nutritional status also improved, as evidenced by higher levels of albumin, transferrin, prealbumin, and total protein. Additionally, the recurrence rate in the experimental group was notably lower (10%) compared to the control group. The experimental group also exhibited reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-4 and IL-5, suggesting a beneficial effect on immune modulation. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of pediatric acupressure and vitamin D supplementation can improve immune function and inflammatory response in children with BA, which is of clinical value.