Application of Red Ginger Compress to Reduce Pain Intensity in Clients with Osteoarthritis : A Case Study

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disorder that often causes pain, physical limitations, and reduced quality of life. Knee pain, as the main symptom, may interfere with mobility and daily activities. Red ginger compresses may be used as a complementary non-pharmacological therapy because of their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. This study aimed to describe the application of red ginger compresses in reducing pain intensity among osteoarthritis clients in the working area of Wiradesa Public Health Center. A case study design with a nursing care approach was applied, including assessment, nursing diagnosis, intervention, implementation, and evaluation. The subject was a 64-year-old female client with osteoarthritis and chronic pain. The intervention consisted of applying approximately 100 grams of grated red ginger as a compress for 15 minutes, twice daily, for four consecutive days within one week. During the intervention period, the client did not consume or use other pain-relief therapies, allowing the effects of the red ginger compress to be observed independently. Evaluation results showed a gradual decrease in pain intensity from scale 6 to 3, accompanied by reduced stiffness, increased comfort, and improved ability to perform light activities. Red ginger compresses were found to help reduce the intensity of moderate pain (scale of 4–6) and can be considered a safe complementary therapy that can be independently applied at home.