Squeeze away the pain: stress ball eases kidney stone treatment

This study tested whether using a stress ball during extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) — a common, non-surgical treatment for kidney stones — can reduce pain and anxiety. Sixty-four adults having their first ESWL session were enrolled. Researchers measured pain levels, anxiety, satisfaction, and whether patients returned for follow-up sessions. The goal was to see if this simple, cheap, and safe tool could improve the treatment experience without the side effects of painkillers.