"This pilot study sought to identify an appropriate methodology to investigate the impact of reflexology in healthcare settings. The study involved healthy volunteers to prevent unnecessary intervention to individuals who may already be experiencing health related trauma. Thirty participants underwent either reflexology or no treatment (control), in a cross-over experimental design. Self-reported anxiety (Spielberger STAI), cardiovascular parameters (BP and pulse rate) and salivary cortisol and melatonin concentrations were assessed before and after reflexology. Control data were obtained at the same time points in identical settings. Reflexology had a powerful anxiety-reduction effect ('state'; P<0.001) but no significant effect on underlying anxiety ('trait'). cardiovascular parameters decreased (p<0.001). baseline salivary cortisol and melatonin were not significantly correlated with stai scores and did not change significantly following reflexology. reflexology reduced 'state' anxiety and cardiovascular activity within healthy individuals, consistent with stress-reduction. considering the connection between stress/anxiety and well being, the effects of reflexology may have beneficial outcomes for patients. these findings will be transferred to a study involving breast cancer patients where effects may be more pronounced particularly since cancer patients display disregulation of cortisol and melatonin secretion."
McVicar AJ, Greenwood CR, Fewell D'Arcy V, Chandrasekharan S, Alldridge LC, "Evaluation, of anxiety cortisol and melatonin secretion following reflexology treatment: A pilot study in healthy individuals," Complementary Therapeutic Clinical Practice 2007 Aug;13(3):137-45 Institute of Health and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SQ, UK. PMID: 17631256
"Objective: To improve the quality of life of sufferers and their families/carers.
"Materials and methods: Our standard course of treatment over five or more weekly sessions, using reflexology, then massage to acupuncture meridians, with or without aromatherapy oils. This is further explained in our standard brochure and supplementary leaflet. A sample of around 12 will have had at least one course of treatment. These are mostly children under 10 years but, hopefully, some articulate adults will have been treated by December, which will give direct feedback, rather than through parents or carers. Clients recruited through the Stroud Autistic Support Group's newsletters and private distribution of leaflets. Treatment carried out at home and at a heavily subsidized rate. All clients paid so they retained control of their treatment.
"Results: Results are very encouraging so far. All but one client has continued with treatment and all have shown improvement. One girl aged 8 years has apparently completely lost all her Asperger's symptoms. Another girl aged 5 years is now talking again.
Conclusion: Treatment is found to be successfully rebalancing the system and at very low cost (roughly the same as physiotherapy) and at one point of delivery. It is worthy of further research, ideally starting with massage of new born babies, especially those with low output at birth, and following them through to adulthood with (or without) regular corrective/preventative treatments."
"Alternative approach to autism and Asperger's syndrome", Lamont Margaret, Focus Altern Complement Ther 2003; 8: 146 (The Aura Centre, Cedar Lodge, Avening, Tetbury, GL8 8LS, UK)
A 2003 Oncology Nursing Forum article details "the step-by-step process of initiating a program for reflexology and healing touch interns to serve the oncology inpatient population at Methodist Hospital ( in Minneapolis, Minnesota)." The program addressed goals of utilizing CAM (Complementary Alternative Medicine); to "offer these therapies along with traditional treatment in a caring, competent manner that is fiscally responsible." Reflexology and healing touch were selected because of research showing effectiveness in "relieving cancer symptoms" and the interest of the nursing staff. "Both the healing touch practitioner and the reflexologist contacted local schools of complementary therapy to ascertain the availability of interns and their interest in doing their clinical practicums in the hospital with patients with cancer."
"A total of 113 patients participated in the program. Sixty-seven percent were female. About 60% of the participants were hospitalized for cancer management, with the remainder hospitalized for medical and postsurgical diagnoses. Some patients had more than one treatment over the course of their hospitalization (the certification practicum included treating patients multiple times). A total of 83 healing touch treatments were given to 48 patients, and 113 reflexology treatments were given to 53 patients. Twelve patients had both healing touch and reflexology treatments.
"The committee was pleased to find that the patients who received reflexology reported less pain, nausea, stress, anxiety, and depression; they also expressed increased feelings of well-being and peacefulness. Every patient reported that he or she would recommend the treatment to other patients. Patients who received healing touch treatments reported that every symptom they had experienced before the treatment was lessened after treatment. Following treatment, they reported that they felt a greater sense of well-being and peacefulness. Both men and women reported positive benefits."
"Leadership and Professional Development" by Ellen Giarelli, EdD, RN, CS, CRNP and Terry A. Throckmorton, RN, PhD, Associate Editors
"Initiating a Complementary Therapy Internship Program on an Inpatient Oncology Unit," Vicki Norton, RN, BSN, OCN®, and Carol P. McPherson, MSW, MPH, Oncology Nursing Forum, March/April 2003, Volume 30, Number 2
See full report at: http://www.ons.org/Publications/journals/ONF/Volume30/Issue2/3002213.asp
.Reflexology was applied to children with emotional and behavioral difficulties. The goal was to "calming down the children and young people so that their behaviour becomes less challenging within the classroom and generally, making the mainstream more accessible. The children and young people's difficulties can vary from bereavement to neglect, sexual, emotional, mental and physical abuse as well as exposure to drugs and alcohol. Some have witnessed and experienced horrific events within their country of origin and are separated from family members." Changing aggressive and anti-social behavior is a key to mainstreaming the children, returning them to a traditional classroom.
"The reflexology works specifically with the nervous and endocrine system to reduce the 'fight or flight' response which these children/young people often exhibit due to their environment or experiences. This response causes a mixture of irritability, anger, difficulty concentrating, hyperviligance, difficulty staying or falling asleep and exaggerated responses. This causes abnormal levels of key hormones such as an increase in adrenaline, nor adrenaline, natural opiates, enhanced thyroid function and lower cortisol levels. The treatment aims to balance these levels so that the client can start to feel secure within their environment, change their perspective and learn different techniques of dealing with their stress and frustrations."
"The results from evaluation to date show a reduction in aggression, stress and anxiety and an improvement in focus, concentration, self esteem, listening skills and confidence."
BUD, Therapies for Life, Accessible complementary therapies for vulnerable children and adults to improve quality of life
Why would stepping on a bumpy surface impact health? A study by Mr. Tauro Nakamura of Japan may holds some answers. Mr. Nakamura measured the results of stepping on the Nii-Ichi wooden bead mat, measuring the participants' foot surface temperature, the speed of circulation, and electrical potential before and after stepping on the mat. The test participants stepped on the bead mat for 5 minutes followed by a fifteen minute wait before testing. Testing was conducted in a room at 20 degrees Centigrade with a humidity of 60%.
The surface temperature of the foot was tested with thermography. The results of the test showed that the sure temperature of the foot improved. The thermograph measurement following the stimulus of the bead mat showed a more even distribution of temperature over the entire foot when compared to the measurement before the stimulus.
The speed of blood circulation was tested using ultra-sonic measurements before and after exposure to the mat. Improvement was seen with an average "before" meaurement of 12.5 centimeters per second followed by an "after measurement of 29.0 cm. per second.
Electric potential was measured as a change in performance of electrical resistance (Galvanic skin response) at twelve vital meridian points on the feet and hands. Because cutaneal nerve response represents sympathetic nerve response, the test was taken to show the response to stimulus by the autonomic nervous system. After the stimulation of stepping on the mat, the measurement of electrical current showed improvement in the form of fewer deviations from the mean established before the stimulus.
Nakamura, Teuro, "Using Technical Measuring Machine," Rwo-Shr Health '90 Worldwide Conference Tokyo, Book of Theses, Tokyo, 1990, pp. 45-54)
The blood circulation of seventeen individuals was measured by laser tissue scanning equipment before and after they wore massage sandals. The pre and post test of foot blood flow ratio was 1:2.087 indicating an increase in foot blood flow. Increase in blood flow was also observed on the screen of the equipment.
Shisheng, Wu, "Effect of Foot Massage (Sandals) on Blood Circulation," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, p. 70 (Guangxi Health Cadre Institute
In a study of chronic constipation, 15 reflexology sessions were applied to 20 women aged (30 and 60 years old) who had suffered from constipation for an overage of 24.6 years. The average bowel movement for the women was 4.1 days prior to the study and 1.8 days after. 50% reported a normal stool consistency after the study in comparison to none before. A positive change in digestion was reported by 85% with 55% reducing laxative use. 80% reported an improvement in other health conditions after the reflexology work.
Leila Ericksen, "Using reflexology to relieve chronic constipation," FDZ Research Committee "Sygeplejerksen" (Danish Journal of Nursing) 24th June 1992
184 children (ages 1 to 12) with chronic idiopathic constipation were randomly assigned to one of three groups: standard care and reflexology; standard care and foot massage; or standard care. Parents and carers of two groups were taught either foot reflexology or foot massage. Treatments were followed for twelve weeks. Outcome was measured by a self reporting constipation questionnaire considering "the increase in the mean number of bowel movements and improvements in constipation symptoms at 12 weeks: soiling, pain, medication in use, general health status, and behavior per four week period." Results showed "significant differences between Reflexology and Control groups in bowel frequency (p,0.05) and total constipation symptom score at 12 weeks (p,0.05); there was a significant difference between reflexology and massage for total constipation symptom score (p,0.05) but not for bowel frequency (p = 0.25). There was no significant difference between control and massage groups (p = 0.16 and 0.99). " It was concluded that "reflexology is effective in improving outcomes for children when used as an adjunct to standard treatment."
J. S. Gordon1, E. M. Alder1, G. Matthews-Smith1, I. Hendry1, D. C. Wilson3. "The effectiveness of reflexology as an adjunct to treatment in childhood idiopathic constipation: A single blind randomised controlled trial, Archives of Disease in Childhood: Volume 91 Supplement 1 April 2006p A13" 1 Napier University, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Edinburgh, UK; 2 Department of Nursing, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK; 3 Department of Child Life & Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
Purchase abstract (US$32) at http://pt.wkhealth.com/
"Objective: Reflexology can be beneficial for some chronic conditions, stress management and relaxation; however, professional advice has been generally, without supporting evidence, to withhold it from the critically ill. Focusing on adult patients undergoing 'weaning' from mechanical ventilation (a stressful process), this study aimed to assess the effects of reflexology on physiological parameters, level of consciousness, and analgesia and/or sedative requirements and usage.
"Materials and methods Multiple case studies (n = 8) located in a single general intensive care unit; seven patients received one, and one patient received two reflexology treatments. Scores for level of pain and sedation, amount and type of analgesia and sedatives, and physiological parameters were collected over the 2 days prior and immediately pre- and post-intervention. The opinion of the bedside nurse on the patient's mental state and conscious level was sought before and after the treatment.
"Results: There was sporadic recording of pain and sedation scoring. Where recorded, these sometimes seemed to contradict physiological data and/or nurses' subjective observations. Because of the many factors affecting this patient group neither benefit nor detrimental effects could be conclusively demonstrated.
"Conclusion: The prohibition on reflexology for the critically ill appears groundless. This being so, future research in this area is now both possible and urgently required, using appropriate methodologies to establish causative links between reflexology usage and patient outcomes.
Bonthron S., "Reflexology and the Critically Ill," Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies, 2000:5, pp. 86-87 (Centre for Complementary Health Studies, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK)
Foot reflexology was applied to 5 patients who had experienced deafness due to the effects of toxic drugs. Treatment was applied daily for 14-28 days for 40 minutes. Treatment for all 5 stopped once the patient could hear a speaking voice from a certain distance.
Zhixian, Zhao, Gengye, Zhou, Xin, Zhou, "Foot Reflexology in the Treatment for 5 Cases with Drug Toxic Deafness," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, pp.119-121
"For (reflexology claims of relaxation) effects to be anything more than psychological, they have to show up in the underlying dynamics when ECG is analyzed."Electrical stimulation to simulate reflexology work was applied to three individuals. "Under reflexology, the complexity (quantified by dimension) of the dynamics was lower compared to without reflexologic stimulations with a general drop as degree of stimulation increased... "This implies that dynamics become less complex and the horizon of predicability increase during reflexology."
Biyani A and P K SADASIVAN, "Nonlinear Analysis of ECG under reflexology stimulation", In World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, 24-29 August 2003, Sydney, Australia, 2003.
Abstract: We analyzed the effect of Reflexology foot sole massage in our laboratory from a physiological point of view. Based on physiological data we concluded that the subjects were relaxed. We thought that this method stimulated acupuncture points on the sole of the foot, but it also showed good physiological effects. ECG, blood pressure, respiration, SpO2, blood flow, carbon dioxide density, and EEG.
"Physiological Measurements for Reflexology Foot Massage," Yoshio MACHI1, Chao LIU1 and Maki FUJITA21 Dept. of Electronic Engineering, Tokyo Denki University (Tokyo, JAPAN) 2 Japan Reflexology Association Maki Fujita Reflexology School (Tokyo, JAPAN)
An electric foot roller was utilized to provide both "reflexologic stimulation" as well as to remove the human element from the application of the stimulation. Heart rate variability (HRV) was measured by electrocardiogram. "HRV is a non-invasive measurement of cardiovascular autonomic regulation. Specifically, it is a measurement of the interaction between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity in autonomic functioning." "Recently, new dynamic methods of HRV quantification have been used to uncover non-linear fluctuation in heart rate that are not otherwise apparent." The researchers speculate that improved circulation of blood from feet to heart creates a situation where "there will be more variation in the heart rate and become more chaotic."
The ECG of twenty individuals was taken for twenty minutes in a relaxed sitting position and then for twenty minutes while being "given reflexological stimulation just below the toes of both feet by a mechanical reflexological device (Massage-scroller type)." The effectiveness of reflexology stimulation on the heart rate variability (HRV) signal was measured by three means: correlation dimension analysis (CD), entropy and Poincare plot geometry (SD2 (m s)." "Reflexology being a healing work working on the subtle planes of the human body, we are using subtle tools for investigating the same." Results: The three parameters of cardiac function were compared and in "most of the cases under study due to the effect of reflexological stimulation have changed significantly."
Variation of non-linear parameters with and without reflexology
Without reflexology 4.225 + 0.28 (CD) 0.491 + 0.07 (Entropy) 79.32 + 32.74 (SD2 (m s))
With reflexology 4.29 + 0.24 (CD) 0.54 + 0.05 (Entropy) 66.37 + 37.89 (SD2 (m s))
"Hence, reflexological stimulation could increase the complexity of HRV (heart rate variability) signal which is a better state. Hence, the HRV becomes more chaotic due to reflexological stimulation." Measurement by ECG showed a moderate improvement of cardiac function of the heart's activity.
Paul Joseph, U. Rajendra Acharya, Chua, Kok Poo, Johnny Chee, Lim Choo, S. S. Iyengar, Hock Wei, "Effect of reflexological stimulation on heart rate variability," Science Direct, 4 February 2004
"Reflexology is an ancient holistic healing technique that has been practiced as far back as the Egyptian Era and is currently used throughout the world. It's basic premise is that specific reflex points on the hands and feet correspond to different glands and organs in the body. When stimulated, the body's own healing abilities are engaged resulting in improved health and feelings of well being. The purpose of this project was to examine how these positive changes, resulting from a single reflexology session, would manifest in the EEG of 14 volunteers (adults ranging in age from 23 to 63).
"We used an 8 channel multi-modality biofeedback system in which 2 channels were dedicated to the EEG measurement. Electrode placement was at C3 and C4 where sensory input is registered. Other measures used were temperature, skin conductance and heart rate. The EEG measures taken were amplitude, power, % power and % synchrony. Bandwidths examined were theta (3.5- 7.4 Hz), alpha (7.4- 12.1 Hz) and beta (12.2 -42 Hz) with subsequent bandwidth redefinition in order to check for trends in narrower bands.
"All but 2 of the subjects found reflexology to be a very pleasant experience. Of the 14 subjects, 11 had useable data. (Combining EEG with "hands on" treatment techniques brings with it a particular set of liabilities with respect to artifacts), Of these 11 persons, 10 showed significant increases, over the course of the session, in one or more of the following measures: alpha amplitude, theta amplitude, % alpha synchrony and % theta synchrony. All increases in amplitude were bilateral. Only one person showed no increases. Additionally, and perhaps more importantly, there was a substantial drop in these measures immediately following the baseline period when the hands on portion of the session began. This may have important implications with respect to the role of healing touch in cortical stimulation."
John A. Putman and Merle Sunde, EEG Spectrum Encino, CA Putman, J. Sunde M. (1999). "Reflexology and its effect on the EEG at C3 and C4," Journal of Neurotherapy, Vol. 3, No 2, 36-43.
"Reflexology and Its Effect on the EEG at the Somato-sensory Cortex" SSNR conference, Aspen, CO and EEG Spectrum Clinical Interchange conference, Santa Barbara, Cal., October, 1997 Office: (818) 754-4223 e-mail: JPutman905@aol.com Jputman@eeginstitute.comIn a study of eight individuals, an EEG was taken during a normal resting condition and then under reflexological stimulation of the brain reflex area of the hand, the upper one-third of the thumb. "In this work nonlinear techniques have been used to assess the complexity of EEG with and without reflexological stimulation. We prefer the nonlinear approach, as we believe that the effects (of reflexological stimulation) are taking place in a subtle way, since there is no direct correlation between reflexological points and modern neuroanatomy." Specifically, "we conclude that reflexological stimulation, from the signals and systems point of view bring the brain-mind mechanism to a lower dimensional chaos indicating a state of 'order out of disorder.'... "We expected this, as reflexology claims to de-stress and bring relaxation to the brain."
N. Kannathal, Joseph K. Paul, C. M. Lim and K. P. Chua, "Effect of Reflexology on EEG - A Nonlinear Approach," The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, Vol. 32, No. 4, 641-650, 2004: PMID: 15481653
In one study the EEG's of 30 subjects were measured (1) in a resting state, (2) with subject listening to classical music followed by rock music and (3) "with subjects under foot reflexologic stimulation." Results "suggests that when the subjects are under sound (music) or reflexologic stimuli, the number of parallel functional processes active in the brain is less and the brain goes to a more relaxed state. This gives rise to the increase in alpha frequencies in the brain waves."
Kannathal Natarjan, Rajendra Acharya U, Fadhilah Alias, Thelma Tiboleng and Sadasivan K. Puthusserypady, "Nonlinear analysis of EEG signals at different mental states," BioMedical Engineering OnLine, 3:7, 16 March 2004: PMID: 15023233 Kannatha N , Rajendra Acharya U, Paul Joseph and E Y K Ng "Analysis of EEG signals with and without reflexology FFT and autoregressive modeling techniques," Chinese Journal of Medicine http://www.cjmed.net/zi3.htm
Kannathal N, Rajendra Acharya U, Paul Joseph, Ng, E. Y. K, "Analysis of EEG signals with and without reflexology using FFT and AR Modeling techniques", Chinese Journal of Medicine, China, 1(1), 2006, 1-15
Hypothesis: applying reflexology stimulation to inner lateral corner of the left great toe to see if this would activate the part of the brain reflected by this reflex area, the right temporal lobe. Reflexology was applied to the specific area of 10 healthy subjects. The fMRI showed activation of brain: Temporal lobe (strongest) (Sensory pathways and/or memory, auditory or language functions); Cerebellum (Motor-sensory pathway); Right claustrum (secondary somatosensory cortex); Right anterior central gyrus (Tactile stimulation and movement of toe during work)
Tang Annie M., Li Geng., Chan C.C., Wong K.K.K., Li R. and Edward Yang Brain Activation at Temporal Lobe Induced by Foot Reflexology: an fMRI Study, 11th Annual NeuroImage Meeting. 2005, 1445. (Publication No. :102229) www.humanbrainmapping.org
Hypothesis: Applying reflexology technique to left foot, eye reflex area at bases of second and third toes to see if this would activate the visual cerebral cortex. Reflexology work was applied to the specific area of 10 healthy volunteers. The fMRI showed activation of brain: Cerebellum (Conduct impulses to cerebral cortex / Posture, balance, coordination of movements); Left frontal lobe (Strongest activation) (Polysensory / Premotor area/Language related movement (writing)); Left insula. Visual cerebral cortex was not activated but reflex area stimulation matched results when acupoint stimulated in stroke patients with vision deficits: activation of frontal lobe and insula.
Tang M.Y., Li G., Chan C.C., Wong K.K.K., Li R. and Yang E.S., Vision Related Reflex Zone at the Feet: An fMRI Study, 11th Annual NeuroImage Meeting. 2005, 1431. (Publication No. : 102226)
Hypothesis: reflex area stimulation would activate the same brain region as acupuncture stimulation; selected area of left foot (adrenal gland reflex area and K1) is related to emotional disorder and pain (adrenal gland and K1 are utilized to work with psychological asthma). For 14 healthy males pressure was applied to adrenal gland reflex area and electrical stimulation of K1 acupoint. The activation by both in the insula demonstrated that reflexology or acupuncture stimuli at the point (adrenal gland / K1) probably regulate emotional and pain effects.
It was found that working the reflex area activated parts of the brain: Insula (Homeostasis, pain, emotions) (Strongest activation); Homunculus of the cerebral cortex (Sensory); Parietal lobe (Premotor). Activation of brain (acupoint): Homunculus (Sensory); Insula (Homeostasis, pain, emotions); Working memory
Annie M. Tang, Geng Li, Edward S. Yang, "Comparison of Foot Reflexology and Electro-Acupuncture: An fMRI study," The Jockey Club MRI Centre, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong 474 TH-PM; Presented at Twelfth Annual Meeting of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping www.humanbrainmapping.org; NeuroImage 31 (2006) 237
Application of foot reflexology to 15 gout cases showed positive effects. For some one session relieved pain and difficulty in walking. Within in five or six sessions, joint swelling disappeared. Blood uric levels normalized after 10 sessions on average. Results: Relieved 100% of symptoms within 7 to 10 sessions: Swollen joint, pain, difficulty in walking, blood uric acid normalized.
Zhensheng, Wu, "Observation on the Therapeutic Effect of 15 Cases of Gout treated with Foot Reflexotherapy," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, 1996,, pp. 104-109
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of hand reflexology on the physiological/emotional responses and immunity of the patients with chronic illness. This study looked specifically at patients with chronic renal failure(CRF) and cancer patients.
METHOD: This study was designed as a quasi-experimental nonequivalent control group pre and post test. Subjects were 54 patients who received dialysis and chemotherapy in one hospital. Thirty-one patients were assigned to the experimental group and 23 to the control group. The hand reflexology was applied to both hands of the experiment group for ten minutes each time, 5 times during three days. For data collection, physiological lab levels, immune cells of blood and questionnaires for emotional responses were measured before and after the program.
RESULT: BT of the experiment group was decreased significantly on both of the 1st and the 5th application. PR and BP were decreased significantly on the 1st times, but not 5th times. Hb levels of the experimental group were significantly increased. And emotional responses, vigor and mood scores of the experiment group were significantly increased. B cell and CD19 were increased significantly on the experiment group. Suppressor T cell and NK cell showed significant decrease after the program, but no significant differences between the groups.
CONCLUSION: We have found that the hand reflexology helps the chronic patients to improve physiological emotional responses and the immune reaction. Through this result, the hand reflexology is effective as a intervention of psychoneuroimmunologic function.
Lee CH, Oh SY, Park OS, Kwon IG, Jeong MA, Lee EA., "Effects of Hand Reflexology on Physiological Emotional Responses and Immunity in the Patients with Chronic illness; Chronic renal failure patients and Cancer patients" Sungkyunkwan University, Korea. Seoul Women's College of Nursing, Korea. Samsung Medical Center, Korea.
Foot reflexology was applied to four patients with Hepatitis B. Technique was applied daily for 10 days as one course of treatment. Before treatment the Hepatitis B virus markers (HBsAg: Hepatitis B surface antigen) for the four patients were: Patient 1, 4096; Patient 2, 512; Patient 3, 4096; Patient 4, 32. After four courses (daily for 40 days) of foot reflexology, the HBsAg markers for the four patients were: Patient 1, 0; Patient 2, 0; Patient 3, 4096; Patient 4, 0.
Sheng-Chang, Tong, "Using Foot Massotherapy to Cure (4 Cases of) Hepatitis B," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, p. 70 (Guangxi Health Cadre Institute)
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of foot-bathing on autonomic nerve and immune function. Eleven healthy female volunteers (aged 22-24 years) undertook foot-baths at 42 degrees C (105 F)for 10 min, with or without additional mechanical stimulation (air bubbles and vibration). Autonomic responses were evaluated by electrocardiography and spectral analysis of heart rate variability, and by measurement of blood flow in the sural region. White blood cell (WBC) counts, ratios of lymphocyte subsets, and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity were used as indicators of immune function. Foot-bathing with mechanical stimulation produced (1) significant changes in the measured autonomic responses, indicating a shift to increased parasympathetic and decreased sympathetic activity and (2) significant increases in White blood cell (WBC) count and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, suggesting an improved immune status. Because these physiological changes are likely to be of benefit to health, our findings support the use of foot-bathing in nursing practice.
Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2007 Aug;13(3):158-65. Epub 2007 Feb 20. Effects of foot-bathing on autonomic nerve and immune function. Saeki Y, Nagai N, Hishinuma M. Nagano College of Nursing, 1694 Akaho, Komagane, Nagano 399-4117, Japan. yukaS@md.tsukuba.ac.jp
PMID:17631258
70 insomnia patients were divided into two groups: One group received twice a day reflexology sessions for 10 days the other group received once a day sessions for 10 days. After the 10 days 100% of the twice a day group no longer had a problem sleeping and compared to 91% of the once a day group. Five days after treatment, however, the effective rate was 88% for the twice-a-day group and 22% for the once-a-day group.
Gao Wa. Wang Zhen, Liu Haige, "Preliminary Exploration of Treatment for Insomnia," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 7-8
"The aim of the present study was to carry out a rigorous clinical trial of the effectiveness of reflexology treatment in aiding recovery following a major adverse impact on the patients health Rather than using an illness or accidental injury, which might vary substantially in severity and duration, a standard surgical procedure, total knee replacement, formed the basis of the trial."
38 knee replacement patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: control, full reflexology session, and placebo group(full reflexology session without areas "thought by the reflexologist to influence healing of the knee'). The reflexologists applied Morrell Reflexology, a very light pressure system. Reflexology was applied within 24 hours of surgery and three times a week thereafter. Patients were assessed for: length of stay (strict criteria); length of stay (broad criteria); total morphine (mg) administered 48-hour post surgically ; Average codydrmol (units per day after the 48 hour period). Results: "There was no significant difference in any of the three groups, with the exception of morphine consumption in the early postoperative period. Patients receiving real or placebo reflexology treatment used significantly less morphine than the control group."
Evans SL, Nokes LDM, Weaver P, et al. "Effect of reflexology treatment on recovery after total knee replacement," J Bone Joint Surg (British Vol) 1998;80(Suppl. 2):172
PURPOSE; This study was aimed to identify the effect of foot reflexology massage on climacteric symptom, fatigue and physiologic parameters of middle-aged women.
METHOD; A non-equivalent pretest-post test experimental design was used. Participants were recruited from the Community Health Center in Busan, Korea. Forty participants were assigned to either an experimental group (20) or a control group(20). Foot reflexology massage was administered twice a week for 6 weeks in the participant in experimental group.
RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences in climacteric symptom, fatigue, total cholesterol and cortisol level. However, there were no statistically significant differences in triglyceride, high density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein.
CONCLUSION; These results suggest that foot reflexology massage could be utilized as an effective nursing intervention to reduce climacteric symptom and fatigue in middle-aged women.
Lee YM., "Effects of Foot Reflexology Massage on Climacteric Symptom, Fatigue and Physiologic Parameters of Middle Aged Women," J Korean Acad Adult Nurs. 2006 Jun;18(2):284-292. Korean. Department of Nursing, Inje University, Korea. lym312@inje.ac.kr
"This pilot study by Denise Boyd, Catherine Evans and Vari Drennan explores the acceptability of reflexology to community clients with severe and enduring mental illness and tests the feasibility of different methods of data collection for evaluation. Qualitative data revealed that reflexology was accepted by the clients in terms of their interest, attendance and tolerance of touch. The feasibility of community mental health nurses including complementary therapies in their repertoire of therapeutic interventions is an area requiring further exploration"
Increasing client demand by users of mental health services and positive patient outcomes found in prior studies prompted the choice of reflexology in this pilot study. "A common limitation of the evaluative research on reflexology is the lack of objective measurable data with the emphasis being on client feedback and satisfaction. Moreover, no published work has explored the value of reflexology for clients at the severe and enduring end of the mental health/illness spectrum. ... "This pilot study aimed to meet the research gap by exploring the feasibility of providing and evaluating the effect of reflexology on people with severe and enduring mental health problems. An area of particular interest was the acceptability of reflexology, most notably the tolerance of touch"
Six individuals (five with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and one with bi-polar disorder) with a history of frequent relapses were selected to receive six reflexology sessions. Before the first session and after the last session two psycho-social rating scales were measured: "a Life Skills Profile (LSP) questionnaire (Rosen et al, 1989) which measures levels of social functioning and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) (Overall and Gorham, 1962) which measures psychotic symptoms. The LSP was completed by the participant's mental health key-worker using their records and knowledge of the clients and the BPRS with the client."
Results:
"Out of the six people recruited, two completed the six reflexology sessions over six to twelve weeks. Two people went into crisis, attending either one or three sessions each. Two people dropped out of the study, attending for one or two sessions only."
"During and after each reflexology session, the conversational themes were documented in the field notes and are reported in figure 2. These covered a wide range of issues, from aspects of mental, physical, social and preventative health to experience of in-patient service use and medication management... In the post session interview exclusively positive responses were given by the majority of the participants (n=5)."
"Pre and post psycho-social scales were only completed for the two clients completing the six reflexology sessions. Interpretation of this data is therefore limited. In the BPRS a 20 per cent reduction in the post-test psychotic score was found for both participants. In the LSP one post-test showed a small increase (seven per cent) in the life skill functioning measure, and in the other a decrease (eight per cent)."
"In this small investigation, valuable narrative and observational qualitative data were obtained from all six clients. It was apparent that clients felt able to talk about a wide range of topics before, during and after the reflexology session. Talking was not the focus of the session and it seemed as if this allowed talking to take place."
Boyd, Denise, Evans, Catherine, Drennan, Vari, "Using Reflexology (for mental health concerns); A Feasibility Study," Mental Health Nursing Vol 21 No 6 pp 14-17
Reflexology work was applied to the feet of 34 middle school adolescents with an average visual acuity of 0,27 (right eye) and 0.44 (left eye). Technique was applied for 5-10 minutes 10 times as a course (over 15-30 days). Following the second course there was a total effective rate of 83.8%. Among the 68 eyes:
10 (14.7%) showed more than 0. 5 increase in visual acuity 23 (33.8%) increased by 0.25-0.40 24 (35.3%) by 0.1-0.25
Zhensheng, Wu; Xizhen, Li; Weiyu,Lu; Huixin, You; Dali, Dai; "Reflexology in Treating Adolescent Myopia: Observation of 34 Cases, 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, p. 70 (Guangxi Health Cadre Institute)
Ling, Zhang, "Treatment of 29 Cases with Myopia by Foot Reflexology," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 84-8529 primary school students, lowest level of vision was 0.1 and highest was 1.2 with average of 0.781 Foot reflexology Daily, 30-40 minutes for 70 days Results;
24 eyes fully recover 21 eyes significantly effective. Average eyesight was 1.081, an improvement of 0.3 from before treatment Children with astymatism (8) improved an average of 0.113 versus 0.371 for those without Eyesight improved in 3-4 sessions for those with eyesight higher than 1.0
In the U.S., 1 of every 3 people is affected by painful arthritis (CDC and Prevention, 2002). Arthritic medications have caused adverse reactions e.g. Vioxx recall (U.S. FDA, 2005) and others may have adverse effects when used long-term. These effects may be minimized by adjuvant nonpharmacological modalities, such as reflexology, a complementary therapy. Reflexology is a noninvasive technique of applying topical pressure to specific points on the feet thought to represent somatic organs. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of foot reflexology on self-reported osteoarthritis joint pain. The hypothesis was that participants with joint pain who received reflexology would have less pain after treatment than those receiving a placebo massage or control condition. The effect may be explained by the gate control theory. A power analysis was calculated using G*Power® software computer program (Faul & Erdfelder, 1992) with .99 Ρ lower for the parameters of alpha = .05, with a large ES of 1.0408. A convenience sample (N = 119) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 41 treatment-foot reflexology, n = 39 placebo-foot massage, and n = 39 control-arthritis information) for the experimental pretest-posttest controlled clinical trial.
Pain was measured before and after the 15-minute intervention with the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire. A limitation was the researcher administering all interventions and questionnaires. Multiple regression was used to analyze the hypothesis. The groups receiving either reflexology or massage had significantly less posttest pain than those receiving arthritis information.
Reflexology, however, did not statistically result in less pain than massage. Clinical effect was found in the reflexology group who had 8 to 18% improvement (less pain on all pain scales), compared with those in the massage group. The results generated knowledge for research, education, and practice regarding adjuncts for joint pain relief.
Laree J Schoolmeesters PhD, RN, "The Effect of Reflexology on Self-Reported Joint Pain," Southern Nursing Research Society Proceedings: 2007 Annual Conference , Feb 22, 2007 (9 Melrose Court Columbia, SC 29229 USA Email: bestrnteacher@yahoo.com University of South Carolina)
New research shows that reflexology makes a difference in how individuals handle pain. British researcher Dr. Carol Samuel of the Department of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, UK notes; "It has been claimed that reflexology is useful in the treatment of various conditions including such things as migraine, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether foot reflexology attenuates acute pain in human volunteers."
The study was conducted using an ice bath, a classic research method for studying response to pain. The study participant's hand is immersed in ice water. Time is then measured to see how long it takes for the individual "to find the experience painful." Next, time is measured to see how long it takes until the individual "can no longer keep his or her hand in the ice water." Pain threshold and pain tolerance are thus measured. Reflexology was tested using this method to see if it impacts pain threshold and pain tolerance. Results show that reflexology work does make a difference in the threshold and tolerance of pain.
Dr. Samuel conducted a controlled study of 16 healthy individuals. Half of the test subjects received a single reflexology session followed by pain "induced by immersion of the non-dominant hand in crushed ice." Half the subjects served as a control group, receiving "sham TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation" prior to immersion. Following a cross-over design, the reflexology group then received sham TENS before ice water immersion of hands. The original sham TENS group received reflexology work.
"(1). Two measurements were taken (i) pain threshold (i.e. the time it takes for the subject to find the experience painful) and (ii) pain tolerance (i.e. the time it takes until the subject can no longer keep his/her hand in the ice water)." "Measurements were taken 15 minutes prior to treatment and at 30 minute intervals for 120 minutes following reflexology or sham TENS."
"The results of this study show that reflexology increases both pain threshold and tolerance in human volunteers exposed to acute pain. These findings indicate the possibility of using reflexology in the management of pain."
Carol Samuel (UK) "The effects on reflexology on pain threshold and tolerance in an ice-pain experiment on healthy human subject," May 13, 2007, International Congress on Complementary Medical research (Conference), www.CMR-muc2007.de
Editor's Note: The use of reflexology to reduce pain is documented by both testimonials and research. A review of 177 reflexology studies shows that 35 or 21% included testing the efficacy of reflexology for pain reduction. How this takes place is a matter of conjecture. Popular theories include pain reduction due to: endorphin release prompted by reflexology work and the pain gate theory (the signal created by reflexology work replaces the pain signal at the "gate," the spinal cord).
PURPOSE: The main objective was to test if reflexology could be used as a non-invasive form of phantom limb pain relief. The second objective was to test the possibility that patients might be able to achieve any positive results with self-treatment.
RELEVANCE: Management of phantom limb pain has always been a part of the physiotherapists role and whilst there have been single case studies by physiotherapists into using reflexology to treat this phenomenon, the author could not find any larger research studies. It was felt that more research is needed in this area in order to build the evidence base required for this method of phantom limb pain relief.
PARTICIPANTS: There were 7 men and 3 women with unilateral lower limb amputations, varying from below knee to hind quarter levels, and a history of phantom limb pain. Aetiologies were osteomyelitis, trauma, diabetic gangrene, ulceration, thigh tumour and necrotizing fasciitis. The mean age was 62.5 years.
METHODS: Same-subject, experimental pilot study; recording pain in weekly pain diaries during a 30-week period. Phase 1 six weekly diaries for base line of pain. Phase 2 six weekly diaries and six weekly reflexology treatments. Phase 3 six weekly diaries only, resting phase. Phase 4 six weekly diaries and six weekly teaching sessions. Phase 5 six weekly diaries and self treatment.
ANALYSIS: A numerical rating pain scale; 0 = no pain, 1 = mild pain, 2 = moderate pain, 3 = severe pain, an ordinal duration rating scale; 0 = not applicable, 1 = once a week, 2 = a few days a week, 3 = once a day, 4 = more than this, and a numerical lifestyle scale; 0 = not applicable, 1 = does not interfere, 2 = slight interference, 3 = moderate interference, 4 = interferes a lot, 5 = completely interferes were used in the diaries. These scales were sanctioned by a clinical specialist in pain management. The statistician entered the data into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), it was analyzed using both parametric and non-parametric tests, there was no difference between the results of these and therefore, parametric tests were reported (ANOVA & LSD). Effect sizes analysis was also carried out in order to account for the small sample.
RESULTS: Repeated measures ANOVA for average reported pain revealed a highly significant 'overall' difference, whereby the treatment phase does makes a difference to pain; F(4,28)=4.38, p=.007. This indicates that the probability of finding this pattern due to chance is less than 1%. The same test was used for the analysis of duration and affect on lifestyle; F(4,36)=4.98, p=.003 and F(4,36)=3.57, p=.01
CONCLUSIONS: The project indicated that reflexology treatment, teaching and self-treatment were effective in eradicating or reducing the intensity and duration of phantom limb pain in this group of patients. IMPLICATIONS: Physical therapists could play a pivotal role in the treatment of this phenomenon by using reflexology.
Brown C, Lido C, "Reflexology: A treatment plan for phantom limb pain?" Physiotherapy 2007;93(S1):S185 Prosthetic Services Centre, Wolverhampton City NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, England. 2 Thames Valley University, London
FUNDING ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Wolverhampton City NHS Primary Care Trust, c/o Research & Development Department, The Beeches, Penn Hospital, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, England. CONTACT: tina.brown@wolvespct.nhs.uk ETHICS COMMITTEE: Wolverhampton District Local Research Ethics Committee; REC reference number: 04/Q2701/31; Approved: 11th February 2005; Completed December 2005
Abstract: We analyzed the effect of Reflexology foot sole massage in our laboratory from a physiological point of view. Based on physiological data we concluded that the subjects were relaxed. We thought that this method stimulated acupuncture points on the sole of the foot, but it also showed good physiological effects. ECG, blood pressure, respiration, SpO2, blood flow, carbon dioxide density, and EEG.
Five volunteers participated in a physiological measurement of reflexology work. Tested were: EEG, ECG, continuous blood pressure, galvanic skin response (GSR), respiration from the nose and abdomen, nose respiration temperature, concentration of carbon dioxide in nose respiration gas, blood flow and thermography. Two tests were conducted, a 10-minute session and a 20-minute session.
Heart rate: Before, 62; during work on right foot, 54; after work on left foot, 50 ECG: "R-R interval analysis of the ECG" showed ratio around 2 indicating relaxation after rest period before work. Ratio fell to 1 with work. Blood pressure: Before: 146 mmHg. fell to about 130 mmHg. after work. Blood pressure suddenly increased after work then decreased immediately and fell to level of initial blood pressure. Respiration: Abdominal respiration rate declined a little bit; temperature of gas exhaled from the nose declined slightly; amplitude of abdominal respiration fell a little. SpO2: Oxygen density, Before: 95-97%; during, 97%. Blood flow: Blood flow around carotid artery did not increase much. Carbon dioxide density: Gas exhaled from the nose, Before: 5.6%; After 6.1%, Increase of 9%. After work level returned to first measure EEG: Increase in alpha waves (indicating relaxation) in all subjects; hardly any increase in beta waves. Alpha wave 1 continued after the work ended.
"Physiological Measurements for Reflexology Foot Massage," Yoshio MACHI1, Chao LIU1 and Maki FUJITA21 Dept. of Electronic Engineering, Tokyo Denki University (Tokyo, JAPAN) 2Japan Reflexorogy Association Maki Fujita Reflexology School (Tokyo, JAPAN)
PURPOSE: This study was to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in coal workers' pneumoconiosis.
METHOD: The research design used was a non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design. The foot reflexology was performed for 60 minutes twice a week through five weeks in the experimental group, not in the control group. The subjects of this study consisted of both the experimental group of twenty-nine and the control group of thirty coal workers' pneumoconiosis. The data were collected from December 10, 2002 to February 15, 2003. To evaluate the effects of foot reflexology the scores of depression and anxiety were measured before and after the experiment in both groups. Data of this experiment were analyzed by Chi-square test, t-test, unpaired t-test, ANCOVA and Repeated Measures ANOVA with the SAS Program
RESULTS: The score of depression decreased in the experimental group, not in the control group. There was a significant difference of depression between the two groups. The score of anxiety decreased in the experimental group, not in the control group. There was a significant difference of anxiety between the two groups.
CONCLUSION: As a summary of the study results, foot reflexology was regarded that it attributed to the emotional promotion of coal workers' pneumoconiosis. Therefore the foot reflexology is considered that might be used as an effective skill of nursing intervention program for coal workers' pneumoconiosis.
Lee YM., "The Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Anxiety in Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis.," Korean J Rehabil Nurs. 2005 Jun;8(1):31-37. Korean.(Department of Nursing, Kangwon Tourism College. ymlee6505@hanmail.net)
Women with Polycystic Ovaries or Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome experience irregularities with the follicles (cysts) of the ovaries, the tiny sacs filled with liquid that hold the eggs resulting in faulty production of progesterone (female) hormones and androgens (male hormones). The result is irregular menstrual cycles and infertility among other things.
Method: Reflexology was applied nineteen times over 5 to 6 months to 8 women (ages 24-34 years) diagnosed with Polycystic Ovaries or Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome and long cycles (33-90 days). The Triangle Fertility Clinic took statements and made the gynecological examinations, ultrasound scans, blood tests and medical observations.
Results: Following the reflexology work, the length of menstrual cycles changed significantly with an average fall of 14.81 days (p = 0,0379). The number of follicles in the ovaries showed a marginally significant average fall of 16.3 follicles (p = 0,0531). Hormone Values and Quality of Life did not show statistical significant changes from before to after the treatment.
Conclusion: "The fall in the Length of Cycles days is significant as well as the fall in the Number of Follicles, which is marginally significant. Furthermore the length of cycles and the number of follicles in the ovaries are used when making a diagnosis of PCO/PCOS, therefore the results are indeed so interesting that there is basis for creating a larger trial of the effect of reflexology treatment of women with the diagnosis PCO/PCOS."
Lone Victoria Schumann, "Pilot Study Indicates that Reflexology has Effect On Women Suffering from Polycystic Ovaries (PCO) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)," May, 2007 www.fdz.dk
Contact: Lone Victoria Schumann, Project Manager, Bentzonsvej 9, kl.th., DK-2000 Frederiksberg, lv.schumann@jubii.dk - www.schumann-zoneterapi.dk - Tel.+45 3888 7000 FDZ, Overgade 14, 1.tv., DK-5000 Odense, leme@fdz.dk - www.fdz.dk - Tel.+45 7027 8850
Method: Sixty patients of general surgery were randomly assigned to a control group or a reflexology group. All were given the "required quantity of standard drugs such as NSAID (Diclofenac and Opioids (Pethidine and Fentanyl)." Fifteen to twenty minutes of foot reflexology work was applied to the treatment group.
Results: "This study show a decrease of the quantity of pain killers in Group I (foot reflexology) to less than 50% in comparison with Group II (control)."
Dr. Shweta Choudhary PhD (Dept of Biophysis), Dr. Guresh Kumar, Dr. Kulwant Singh (Dept. of Biostatistics), All-India Institute of Medical Science, New Delhi, India
"Studies conducted in Israel found that reflexology helped soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, providing temporary relief from symptoms including anger, depression and muscle tension. The soldiers who received weekly reflexology treatments also experienced improved sleep patterns, levels of concentration and a lift in overall mood."
(source: "Reflexology On the Front Lines of Health Care", Massage Magazine, November/December 1998)
Researchers found that voluntary reflexology work and befriending were significantly related to improvements for post-traumatic stress victims in Northern Ireland. Researchers were exploring voluntary work as a practice in social work. Establishment of evidence-based practices "has become accepted as a benchmark for service delivery in almost areas of social work."
Seventy-five service users were followed over a nine to twelve month period with a completed research inventory up to four times. "The results showed that despite detrimental effects of additional life stresses, psychological health and depression scores improved for all service users. Some community-based services (befriending) and some complementary therapies (reflexology) were significantly related to these improvements. Changes in post-traumatic stress disorder severity were not significant..."
Significant improvements were seen with voluntary reflexology and befriending work in comparison to other services including: Self-help group, Youth work, Narrative work, Respite care, Counselling, Group therapy, Massage, Aromatherapy, Advice and info, Indirect services and Yoga.
"Despite the fact that additional stressful life events added to the vulnerability of these service users, findings indicated significant improvements in psychological health and levels of depression over time. Improvements were significantly related to the use of some of the services offered by voluntary sector victims' organization; however apart from befriending and reflexology, participants who did not use the other services also improved significantly. Numbers of art therapy users were too small to draw even tentative conclusions."
"While there is some debate about what should be considered submissible evidence, there is no doubt that evidence-based practice has become accepted as a benchmark for service delivery in almost all areas of social work. This is not yet the case in the voluntary sector. Yet, social workers and service users rely heavily on voluntary sector services. In this paper, the effectiveness of voluntary sector services for victims of community violence is explored. Using Northern Ireland as a case in point, a time-series study was carried out with seventy-five service users who completed a research inventory (including GHQ-30, BDI-II and PDS) up to four times across a nine to twelve-month period. Additional stressful life events that occurred during this time period were considered and social validity of services was assessed. The results showed that despite detrimental effects of additional life stresses, psychological health and depression scores improved for all service users. Some community-based services (befriending) and some complementary therapies (reflexology) were significantly related to these improvements. Changes in post-traumatic stress disorder symptom severity were not significant. Social validity data were strongly in favour of voluntary sector services."
Dillenburger, Karola, Fargas, Montserrat, Akhonzada, Rym, "Evidence-Based Practice: An Exploration of the Effectiveness of Voluntary Sector Services for Victims of Community Violence," British Journal of Social Work, August 9, 2007; Correspondence to Dr. Karola Dillenburger, School of Scoiology, Social Policy and Social Work, The Queen's University of Belfast, 6 College Park, Belfast B17 1LP, N. Ireland. E-mail: k.dillenburger@qub.ac.uk
A study of 46 men with prostate problems was conducted by the Bauneholm School of Reflexology, Denmark. The men (ages 40 - 60 (14 men), age 60 - 90 (32 men)) received 13 foot reflexology sessions. At the conclusion of the study, thirty participants (65%) reported a reduction in their need to urinate, thirty-one (67%) reported a better bladder pressure, thirty-seven (80%) reported reduced sexual problems, and twenty-eight (60%) reported improvement of their general condition.
The effects of reflexology on foot pain and quality of life in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis: A case report
Khan, S., Otter, S.J. and Springett, K. (2006) The effects of reflexology on foot pain and quality of life in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis: A case report. The Foot, 16 (2). pp. 112-116. ISSN 0958-2592
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foot.2005.12.006
The purpose of this work was to identify what effect reflexology has on foot pain and quality of life (QoL) in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Using an observational case report, a 6-week course of reflexology treatments were given to a patient who has RA. Perceived pain and QoL were assessed using two validated outcome measures: the Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life (RAQoL) questionnaire and the Foot Pain Disability Questionnaire (FPDQ). The RAQoL scores demonstrated no significant change throughout the duration of the investigation, suggesting that the patient's QoL did not change during or at the end of the 6-week course of reflexology. Scores from the FPDQ indicated reflexology was associated with a reduction in foot pain described by the subject. The clinical implications are that reflexology may be a valuable addition in the management of foot pain for participants with RA. However, it is impossible to generalize from a observational case report and further work is recommended.
Khan SD, Otter SJ, Springett K (2005) The effects of reflexology on pain and quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis: a single case study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (Conference abstracts). 64, Supplement III, 600 (Abstract) ISSN: 0003-4967. Impact Factor: 6.956
One group of researchers found that the amount of pressure - "strength of stimulus" - utilized in reflexology work created different responses within the body. Pulse rate, respiration and oxygen saturation of blood (SPO2) were measured following the application of were measured (1) in a resting state, (2) with the application of low strength technique and (3) with the application of moderate strength. "The results of the experiments suggested that the effects on promoting pulse rate, and times of respiration, and the SPO2 level by stimulation of moderate strength were remarkable and more effective than those by stimulation of low strength.
Remarkable and significant results produced by stimulation applied of moderate strength as opposed to low strength Oxygen saturation rate for moderate strength: 20.50 and for low strength: 17.17 Respiratory rate for moderate strength: 98.73 and for low strength: 97.50
The difference between them was remarkable... if improper strength of stimulation was applied, the following consequences might be induced: (1) If the strength of stimulation is too weak it won't be enough to induce the effective reaction of the body; (2) If the strength of stimulation is too strong, it could induce not only endurable pain, but also low cardiac output..." The researchers also note observations from their clinical experience. The client's sensitivity should be assessed according to sex, age, and "constitution," should be observed during the session and asked about his or her reaction.
Feng Jinqi, Fan Chunmei, Feng Xingqian, Yang Lianming, "Exploration on the Effects of Pulse, Respiration and Oxygen Saturation of Blood by Different Strength of Stimulus," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 94 - 96
Foot reflexology was applied once a day for ten days, every other day for ten days, and once or twice a week for ten days. A review of 38 cases of cerebrovascular accident patients showed a 95% effectiveness rate. Results were evaluated as (1) effective if the "functions of palsy lower limbs got recovered to enable the patient to walk independently in the room and" and (2) remarkably effective if the "function of lower limbs got recovered, digital meticulous action partially recovered, Babinski's sign turned negative" Results: among the 28 patients of the cerebral thrombosis groups (a) 9 cases showed effect in the first course of treatment and 15 in the second course and (b) 3 cases showed remarkably effective in the second course of treatment and 3 cases in the third course. Among the cerebral infarction group (a) 2 cases showed effective in the first course of treatment and 2 cases in the second and (b) 2 cases showed remarkably effective in the third course of treatment.
Wu Zhen-sheng, Li Xue-zhen, "Treatment of 38 Cases of Ischemic Apoplexy," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 1
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