Evaluation of efficacy of Valsalva maneuver for attenuating propofol injection pain: a prospective, randomized, single blind, placebo controlled study

Background Pain on injection is a limitation with propofol use. The effect of the Valsalva maneuver on pain during propofol injection has not been studied. This maneuver reduces pain through the sinoaortic baroreceptor reflex arc and by distraction. We aimed to assess the efficacy of the Valsalva maneuver in reducing pain during propofol injection.