Controlled Studies in Reflexology

Ninety-five cases of amenorrhea were divided into two groups, a foot reflex therapy treatment group of 50 and a control group of 45 with participants using traditional Chinese medicine tablets. The effective rate of the foot reflex therapy group was 96% compared to the control group rate of 33%.

Xiu-hua, Xu, "Analysis of 50 Cases of Amenorrhea Treated by Foot Reflex Therapy," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 36

Asthma

Ten weeks of either active or simulated (placebo) reflexology were compared in an otherwise blind, controlled trial of 40 patients with asthma. Results: Objective lung function tests did not change. Subjective scores and bronchial sensitivity to histamine improved on both regimens but no differences were found in the groups receiving active or placebo reflexology. However, a trend in favour of reflexology became significant when a supplementary analysis of symptom diaries was carried out. At the same time a significant pattern compatible with subconscious un-blinding was found. Discussion: We found no evidence that reflexology has a specific effect on asthma beyond a placebo influence.

Brygge T, Heinig JH, Collins P, Ronborg SM, Gehrchen PM, Hilden J, Heegaard S, Poulsen LK, "Zone Therapy and Asthma," Ugeskr Laeger, 2002, Apr. 29; 164(18):2405-10 (Danish language)

Asthma

"Thirty patients with proved bronchial asthma receiving treatment with inhaled steroid in dosages of less than 1,000 micrograms daily were subdivided at random into two groups of 15 patients. One group received foot zone therapy and the other merely uniform clinical care but without "placebo foot zone therapy". The "active" group received a total of ten foot zone therapy sessions of one hour at intervals of one week. The asthmatic symptoms, consumption of medicine and the objective pulmonary function parameters were followed-up during the subsequent six months. Decrease in consumption of beta-2-agonists and increase in peak-flow levels were observed in the group which had received foot zone therapy, but the same changes were observed in the control group. The authors do not find that this investigation demonstrates that foot zone therapy is of effect on the disease bronchial asthma. They conclude, however, that the favourable effect in both of the groups are due to increased care and control which occurred in both patient groups."

Petersen LN, Faurschou P, Olsen OT, Svendsen UG. Ugeskr Laeger. 1992 Jul 20;154(30):2065-8. Ugeskr Laeger. 1993 Feb 1;155(5):329-31. Lungemedicinsk/allergologisk afdeling Y, Kobenhavns Amts Sygehus i Gentofte.

PMID: 1509577

* Blood pressure, pain, conrol over falls in senior citizens

A radomized, controlled study of 48 individuals was conducted at non-profit ORI in Eugene, Oregon. It tested the results of cobblestone-mat walking three times a week with 45 minute sessions over 8 weeks. Made of a synthetic material, the mats are 6 feet long and 1.5 feet wide.

The study "indicated that older adults experienced significant improvements in mental and physical well-being, including reductions in blood pressure and pain levels. … Elderly participants in the study experienced considerable improvements in their ability to perform 'activities of daily living,' increased psychosocial well-being, and significantly reduced daytime sleepiness and pain. Participants also reported greatly improved perceptions of control over falls and had reductions in resting diastolic blood pressure." http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2004-01/ori-cmw010704.php)

Perhaps most importantly for those who work with the elderly, the cobblestone-mat walking meets a need "to develop simple, convenient, and readily accessible exercise programs that will reduce health problems and improve the quality of life of the aging population." Exit interviews indicated that participants "enjoyed the activity (90%), … "would continue the activity if it were available (75%)… and "(90%) would recommend the activity to friends or relatives."

Cancer

Cancer (Pain and nausea)

Results of study: Reflexology modifies the distressing symptoms of pain and nausea in patients hospitalized with cancer. "87 patients participated in the study and each received a 10-minute reflexology foot massage (5 minutes per foot). The results revealed that the treatments produced a significant and immediate effect on the patients' perceptions of pain, nausea and relaxation when measured with a visual analog scale. The use of reflexology foot massage as a complementary method is recommended as a relatively simpler nursing intervention for patients experiencing nausea or pain related to the cancer experience. The results were so positive that the researchers recommend that further research using larger numbers of patients in controlled clinical trials into its effectiveness of reflexology in alleviating pain, nausea and anxiety in the management of these symptoms by the family at home is warranted."

"Foot Massage: A nursing intervention to modify the distressing symptoms of pain and nausea in patients hospitalized with cancer," Grealish, L. Lomasney, A., Whiteman, B., Cancer Nurse 2000, June;23(3):237-43 (On-line review: "Reflexology Used for Cancer Patients," Internet Health Library, October 11, 2000)

Cancer (Quality of life)

Results of study: 100% of the reflexology group benefited from an improvement in quality of life: appearance, appetite, breathing, communication (doctors), communication (family), communication (nurses), concentration, constipation, diarrhoea, fear of future, isolation, micturition, mobility, mood, nausea, pain, sleep and tiredness. Within the reflexology group, the participants reported an improvement in all components of the quality of life scale compared to 67. 5 in the placebo group. Nevertheless, this study would suggest that the provision of reflexology for palliative patients within the general setting could be beneficial. Not only did the patients in this study enjoy the intervention, they were also 'relaxed,' comforted' and achieved relief from some of their symptoms.

Hodgson, H. "Does reflexology impact on cancer patients' quality of life?," Nursing Standard, 14, 31, pp. 33-38

Cancer (Anxiety and pain)

Results of study: Foot reflexology alleviated anxiety and pain for twenty-three patients with breast and lung cancer. Researchers noted a significant decrease in anxiety for patients diagnosed with breast or lung cancer and a significant decrease in pain for patients with breast cancer. "This has important implications for nursing practice as both professionals and lay people can be taught reflexology. Reflexology is a simple technique for human touch which can be performed anywhere, requires no special equipment, is non-invasive and does not interfere with patients' privacy."

Stephenson, N. L., Weinrich, S. P. and Tavakoli, A. S., "The effects of foot reflexology on anxiety and pain in patients with breast and lung cancer," OncolNursForum 2000, Jan.-Feb.;27(1):67-72

Cancer (Hand massage, Nausea, vomiting, anxiety in children undergoing chemotherapy)

"The purpose of study was to determine the effects of hand massage on nausea, vomiting and anxiety in acute lymphocytic leukemia children with high dose chemotherapy. The subjects of this study consist of 15 in experimental group and 15 in control group. All subjects were diagnosed as acute lymphocytic leukemia and admitted for high dose chemotherapy at the C University Medical Center in Seoul, Korea. The hand massage was performed for 10 minutes twice a day through three days in the experimental group, not in the control group. To evaluate the effects of hand massage, the Index of Nausea, Vomiting by Rhodes et al and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for children by Spielberger were measured before and after the experiment in both groups. Also, the level of anxiety as measured by blood pressure, pulse rate were measured before and after hand massage therapy.

"Result of the study were as follows;1. The score of nausea, vomiting decreased in the experimental group, not in the control group. There was a significant difference of nausea, vomiting between the two groups. 2. The score of state anxiety decreased in the experimental group and increased in the control group. After hand massage, the state anxiety of the experimental group was significantly more positive than the control group at the 2nd measurement 3. There was no significant difference of pulse rate between the two groups. 4. systolic blood pressure decreased in the experimental group and some increased in the control group. There was a significant difference of systolic blood pressure between the two groups. 5. The level of diastolic blood pressure in the two groups was significantly decreased over time.

"In conclusion, hand massage could be effective in decreasing nausea, vomiting, state anxiety, pulse rate and blood pressure of acute leukemia children receiving high dose chemotherapy."

Ji-Eun Han, Master, RN, Young-Im Moon, PhD, and Ho-Ran Park, PhD. College of Nursing, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, none, South Korea, "Effect of Hand Massage on Nausea, Vomiting and Anxiety of Childhood Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia with High Dose Chemotherapy," Presented at Back to Evidence-Based Nursing: Strategies for Improving Practice, Sigma Theta Tau International, July 21, 2004

Cardio-vascular system

Frankel, B. S. M., "The effect of reflexology on baroreceptor reflex sensitivity, blood pressure and sinus arrhythmia," Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Churchill, London, 1997, Vol. 5, pp. 80-84

B. S. M. Frankel of the Department of Physiology, University of Leeds, England has conducted a pilot study "to identify if reflexology and foot massage affect the physiology of the body by measuring baroreceptor reflex sensitivity, blood pressure, and sinus arrhythmia." Ten recipients of reflexology work and ten recipients of foot massage work were compared to a control group of four individuals in a single blind study.

Frankel found that "The reflexology and foot massage groups showed significantly greater reductions in baroreceptor reflex sensitivity compared to the control group. This study found no significant difference in blood pressure after intervention. The frequency of sinus arrhythmia after reflexology and foot massage increased by 43.9% and 34.1% respectively."

Frankel, B. S. M., "The effect of reflexology on baroreceptor reflex sensitivity, blood pressure and sinus arrhythmia," Complementary Therapies in Medicine (England), 1997, 5, pp. 80-84

Cerebral palsy

16 cases of cerebral palsy ages 3 months to 3 years with Gessel growth rate scores of 41 to 55 were divided into two groups. The treatment group received foot massage for 30 days. In the treated group and there was an increase in growth quotient of 30-35 in those 3 to 9 months old and 10-15 with those form 1.5 to 3 years. In the control group the increase in growth quotient was 10-16 for 3-9 months and 9-15 for 1.5 to 3 years. It was suggested that the younger the patient, the better the effect.

Rong-zhi, Wang, "An Approach to Treatment of Cerebral Palsy of Children by Foot Massage," A Clinical Analysis of 132 Cases," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 26

Cervical spondylosis

A total of 80 cases diagnosed with nerve root type or vertebral artery type of cervical spondylopathy were divided into a control group of 28 and a treatment group to 52. The control group was treated with traction while in a seated position "with the neck flexed anteriorly of 20-30 degrees in a traction frame with the occipus and maxilla fixed with bandage" for twenty minutes once a day. The treatment group received a 30 - 40 minute session of foot reflexology once a day for twelve days (except Sunday). Results: There was no significant difference between the control (92.1% effectiveness) and treatment (98.1% effectiveness) groups for clinical effectiveness but the clinical cure rate was higher in the treatment group (48.1%) than the control group (28.95%). A difference was also found in free radicals in the two groups. Before the study the two groups showed no significant difference in blood SOD, GHtal antioxidation activities and MDA content. After treatment the parameters related to free radicals showed significant or quite significant in comparison of the treatment group to the control group.

Shouqing, Gui; Changlong, Zhang and Desheng, Luo, "A Controlled Clinical Observation on Foot Reflexology Treatment for Cervical Spondylopathy,"1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 99-103

Constipation

Forty residents of a "lodging house of the aged people" were studied for effects of foot reflexology on digestive processes. 20 were diagnosed as constipated and 20 were not. Five days before the foot reflexology treatment all were given a carbon tablet and observed for the length of time required to begin and end black stool. All received 10 days of foot reflexology treatment. The carbon tablet was administered again and a comparison was made between the elimination times before the treatment and after. After treatment, the interval between taking the carbon tablet and first black stool for the constipation group changed from an average of 45 hours to an average of 34 hours. The interval until last black stool changed from 77 hours to 51.5 hours. The non-constipation group remained unchanged in average times for first black stool and changed from 57.5 hours to 46 for last black stool after hours after treatment.

Yuru, Yang; Lingyun, Chao; Guangling, Meng; Scuwe, Cao; Jia-Mo, Hao and Suhui, Zhang, "Exploring the Application of Foot Reflexology to the Preventions and Treatment of Functional Constipation," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 62

Coronary heart disease

58 cases of coronary heart diesease were treated with foot reflexotherapy and 67 cases with pharmacotherapy. Four indexes were were examined before and after treatment for both groups: (1) clinical symptoms, (2) blood pressure/heart rate, (3) blood fat and (4) ECG. After 30-40 days of treatment, average results were:

(1) symptoms, reflexotherapy group: chest distress and angina pectoris disappeared symptoms, pharmacotherapy group: chest distress and angina pectoris
(2) blood pressure/heart rate, reflexotherapy group (before): +185/80 / 86-74 and (after): +160/75 / 72-70 blood pressure/heart rate, pharmacotherapy group (before): +180/80 / 78-72 and (after): +160/80 / 76-70
(3) blood fat, reflexotherapy group (before): high in some and (after): slightly changed blood fat, pharmacotherapy group (before): high in some and (after): slightly changed
(4) ECG, reflexotherapy group (before): slight change in T-wave and (after): improved remarkably ECG, pharmacotherapy group (before): change in ST-T wave and (after): certain improvement.

Zhongzheng, Li and Yuchun, Liu, "Clinical observation on Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease with Foot Reflexotherapy, 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 38 - 41

Diabetes

Diabetes

32 cases of type II diabetes mellitus were randomly divided into two groups. One group was treated with conventional Western medicine hypoglycemic agent plus foot reflexotherapy (FR), the other group with the same medicine only (WM). After 30 days' treatment, fasting blood glusoce levels, platelet aggregation, length and wet weight of the thrombus, senility symptom scores and serum lipid peroxide (LPO) were greatly reduced in the FR group (P,0.05-0.01), while no significant change was observed in the WM group. The study suggested that foot reflexotherapy was an effective treatment for type II diabetes mellitis.

Wang, X. M., "Type II diabetes mellitus with foot reflexotherapy," Chuang Koh Chuang Hsi I Chief Ho Teas Chi, Beijing, Vol. 13, Sept. 1993, pp 536-538

Diabetes

Double blind study with a control group. 22 cases with non-insulin dependent diabetes split into two groups. The patients of both groups had taken hypoglycemic agents for a long time. Foot reflexotherapy was applied once a day for thirty days.

Results: Indexes of the scores of senility, thrombocyte aggregation rates (TAR), the length and wet weights of thrombosis in vitro, and the serum oxidative lipids were measured to judge curative effect. The foot reflexotherapy group showed a "marked improvement" with a 66.7% "effective rate" in the measured indices. It is termed a "satisfactory curative effect." The non-foot reflexolotherapy showed no significant change 20% effective rate.

The study demonstrates that "FRT (foot reflex therapy) can lessen the abnormal hemorrheology, symptoms of senility, concentration of serum oxidative lipids and number of nodes in the main reflex zones. In addition, FRT can enhance the effects of hypolglycemic agents on blood sugar … "Systematic application seems necessary to achieve an effect. The exact mechanism to describe this effect is "waiting further exploration"

Zhi-qin, Duan et. al., "Foot Reflexology Therapy Applied On Patients with NIDDM (non-insulin dependent diabetic mellitus)," 1993 China Reflexology Symposium, p. 24

Diabetes

The blood flow rate was tested by color Doppler ultrasonic examination before and after foot reflexotherapy for a treatment group of 20 individuals with Type II diabetes and a control group of 15 individuals with no Type II diabetes and no diseases affecting arterial blood flow in the lower limbs. Results: There were significant differences in the blood flow rate to the feet of Type II diabetes individuals before and after application of technique. The blood flow rate of diabetic individuals was lower than those in the control group.

Ying, Ma, "Clinical Observation on Influence upon Arterial Blood Flow in the Lower Limbs of 20 Cases with Type II Diabetes Mellitus Treated by Foot Reflexology," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 97 - 99

Dyspepsia

Two groups of Dyspepsia cases were studied (upper abdominal; discomfort, bloating, satiety, belching, nausea, acid reflux, heartburn) with peptic ulcer, gastric carcinoma, gastritis reflux esophagitis and hiatal hernia ruled out by barium studies and gastroscopy. Hepatobiliary disease and pancreatic disease were ruled out by ultrasonography. One group of 132 individuals received foot reflexology for 30 minutes once or twice a day for two weeks. One group of 98 individuals received drug therapy for two weeks. The foot reflexology group was found to be: very effective (98 or 74.2%), effective (30 o 22.7%), failure (4 or 0.3%). The drug therapy group was found to be very effective (58 or 60.4%), effective (14 or 14.5%), failure (24 or 25%).

Zhi-wen, Gong and Wei-song, Xin, "Foot Reflexology in the Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia: A Clinical Analysis of 132 Cases," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 37

Edema in Pregnancy

"Fifty-five women in the third trimester (of pregnancy) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a period of rest, 'relaxing' reflexology techniques or a specific "lymphatic' reflexology technique for 15 minute with pre and post-therapy ankle and foot circumference measurements and participant questionnaire. There was no statistically significant difference in the circumference measurements between the three groups; however, the lymphatic technique reflexology group mean circumference measurements were all decreased. … A 'perceived wellbeing' score revealed the lymphatic technique group significantly increased their wellbeing the most, followed closely by relaxing techniques and then the control rest group. (All groups) had a non-significant oedema-relieving effect. From the women's viewpoint, lymphatic reflexology was the preferred therapy with significant increase in symptom relief."

Mollart l., "Single Blind trial addressing the differential effects of two reflexology techniques versus rest, on ankle and foot oedema in late pregnancy," Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery, 2003 Nov;9(4):203-8) (Antenatal Services

Enuresis

The purpose of the study was to clarify whether reflexology is a relevant treatment for enuresis nocturna, and to test a research design applicable to controlled experiments with reflexology. An unblinded method was used comparing a treatment group (1) receiving reflexology to a non-treatment group (2) keeping the same record of symptoms. At the start of the study, the volumes of night urine in the two groups were comparable. By the end of the study, there was no significant decrease in the volume of night urine in either of the groups. Two children in the treatment group and one in the non-treatment group became dry during the night in the course of the study. In conclusion, reflexology given as 14 treatment sessions over a period of four months did not result in a significant fall in enuresis nocturna in children aged seven to eleven years old. It must be concluded that the treatment result can not be distinguished from the conditions in the non-treatment group even though the average night diuresis in group one showed a slightly decreasing tendency while morning diuresis increased, in contrast to group two which exhibited a slight increase in night diuresis. As the total diuresis remained constant, this could be interpreted as an increased urinary bladder capacity, but in both cases the changes were far from significant.

Comment in: Ugeskr Laeger 1999 Apr 12;161(15):2224 Sietam KS, Eriksen L Forenede Danske Zoneterapeuter, Kolding.

Fatigue

Twelve athletes were divided into two groups: a foot reflexology group and a control group. The test group received daily reflexology sessions. Both groups underwent the same athletic training and were observed for sleeping, appetite and reactions to training. The reflexology group showed better qualities of sleep, better appetite and quicker recovery from fatigue and muscle soreness.

Jianguo, Liu and Jingshun, Zhang, "Foot Reflex Zone Massage in Recovery of Fatigue in Athletes," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 98 (Xian City, Shan'xi, China)

Fetal activity during gestation (Foot and hand massage)

"Fetal activity during midgestation (M age=19.8 weeks) was studied in response to vibratory stimulation of the mother's abdomen (at the height of the fetal head), foot massage, hand massage, or control condition (no stimulation). Consistent with previous research conducted during midgestation, the fetuses of mothers who received two trials of 3-sec, 60-Hz vibratory stimulation did not show changes in movement. In contrast, the fetuses of mothers who received a 3-min foot massage showed greater movement than the control fetuses. However, stimulating the mother's hand (another highly innervated area) did not increase fetal activity. By late gestation (M age=35.4 weeks), vibratory stimulation resulted in increased fetal activity. These findings replicate previous research indicating that vibratory stimulation to the mother's abdomen does not elicit fetal activity until later in gestation. Furthermore, our findings indicate that stimulating the mothers' feet, but not the hands, can evoke fetal activity in midgestation.

Diego MA, Dieter JN, Field T, Lecanuet JP, Hernandez-Reif M, Beutler J, Largie S, Redzepi M, Salman FA., "Fetal activity following stimulation of the mother's abdomen, feet, and hands," Dev Psychobiol. 2002 Dec;41(4):396-406

Touch Research Institutes, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA. Copyright 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/dev.10071PMID: 12430163

Free radicals

To consider the mechanism at work, Chinese researchers conducted a controlled study on the impact of foot reflexo-massage on "human antioxidation ability" The control group consisted of twenty medical students with normal health, 10 males and 10 females, ages 20 +1 years (M+SD). The treated group consisted of 56 patients with various disorders, 30 males and 26 females, ages 30 to 70 years.

The control group received a 30 to 40 minute session each day for 10 days. The treated groups received the same treatment but "symptomatic reflexes and related reflexes" were worked for a longer time and with more strength. For both groups, 3 ml. of heparininzed venous blood was collected before and after the session. Tests were conducted for measures of antioxidation: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GP) and malonyl (MDA).

The FRM increased the serum antioxidative enzymes and activities in both control and treated groups. The decrease of MDA, an end product of lipid peroxide, may be the result of physical stimulation of FRM on the nerve fibres and receptors, which relax the local tissue, improve the systemic blood circulation and metabolism, decrease the production of FRs, increase the production of antioxidative enzymes (SOD and GP) and achieve the therapeutic effect. On the other hand, the reduction in FRs can prevent the therapeutic effect on biological membranes, therefore decrease lipid peroxides, and the serum MDA as well. The decrease on FR production and increase in antioxidative enzymatic activity enhance the total antioxidative system (enzymatic and nonenzymatic), this mechanism underlies the increased TSAOA in our subjects."In generalization, Foot reflexo-massage can decrease the free radicals."

Shouqing, Gui; Changlong, Zhang; Jixai, Dong and Desheng, Luoof, "A Preliminary Study on the Mechanisms of Foot Reflexo-Massage -- Its Effect on Free Radicals," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 128-135

Headaches

Results of study: 19% of headache sufferers ceased taking medication following reflexology work. According to a large nationwide research study undertaken in Denmark, reflexology treatment has a beneficial effect on patients suffering from migraine and tension headaches. The study was conducted at the Department of Social Pharmacy, The Royal Danish School of Pharmacy in co-operation with five reflexology associations. 220 patients participated with treatment being given by 78 fully trained reflexologist across the country.

Headaches remain the most common health problem amongst the adult population and it has been estimated that they are the reason for the loss of three million working days every year. Reflexology is renowned for its ability to help relax and calm patients and for this reason it was considered an interesting therapy to study for the treatment of tension headaches and migraine.

Of all the patients who took part in the study, 90 percent said that they had taken prescribed medication for their headaches within the month prior to the commencement of the study and, of them, 36 percent had experienced side effects from the medicines. 81 percent of the prescribed medicine in the acetvlsalicyclic acid and paracetamol group was taken at least twice a week and 72% of the stronger migraine medicines were taken at least once a fortnight which indicates that the majority of the patients were suffering from moderate to severe symptoms. 34 percent had taken medications for ailments other than headaches.

Three months after a completed series of reflexology treatments, 81 percent of patients confirmed that reflexology had either cured (16%) or helped (65%) their symptoms. 19 percent of the patients re-ported that they had been able to completely dispense with the medications they had been taking before the study.

The reflexologist also found that there was a strong link between headaches and the gall bladder, stomach, bladder, and endocrine hormone meridians. At the end of the study the patients who benefited from the treatment showed less stress on the reflex points for the ovaries, small intestine, bladder, stomach, liver and kidneys than they had experienced on their first treatment. The likelihood of successful cure was found to be greatest for: a) those patients whom the reflexologist found no stress on the reflex zones of the uterus or gall bladder, and b) younger patients who had suffered from headaches for a short period of time.

Brendstrup, Eva and Launs¯, Laila, "Headache and Reflexological Treatment," The Council Concerning Alternative Treatment, The National Board of Health, Denmark, 1997

Hyperlipimia

Doctors Shou-qing, Xian-qing, Yuna-zhong, and Wan-yan, conducted a study of 72 cases of hyperlipemia with a treated group of 41 and a control group of 31. Before and after the treatment session, 4 ml of "empty stomach blood" was collected. One group received a series of reflexo-therapy sessions of more strength and lasting 30 to 40 minutes. The control group received a 20 minute session with a forehead pillow application of iodineiontophoresis. The reflexo-therapy group showed an improvement of symptoms of 78% as opposed to 32% for the second group. The treatment group showed a reduction in cholesterol and monoglyceride with a marked statistical difference.

Shou-qing, Gui; Xian-qing, Xiao; Yuna-zhong, Li; and Wan-yan, Fu, "Impact of the Massotherapy Applied to Foot Reflexes on Blood Fat of Human Body," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 21

Hyperlipimia

186 cases of hyperlipemia were randomly divided into four groups: (A) foot reflexology, (B) kinesitherapy, (C) ion-intorduction therapy, and (D) pharmacology (the drug lipunthyl). Groups A, C and D showed remarkable reduction in cholesterol. Group A and D had strong effect on triglyceride. "If one can insist on proper physical exercies and/reflexotherapy plus a balanced diet (low fat, low calorie), it is possible to prevent and treat arteriosclerosis, coronary atherosclerotic cardiopathy, cerebral thrombosis and cerebral apoplxy efficiently."

Shou-qing, Gui; Yuna-zhong, Li; Xian-qing, Xiao; Chen Shengping and Gu Xuejauna (The People's Hospital, Xianning District, Hubei Province), Zhu Shanhan, Liao Enguang (The People's Hospital of Hubei Province) and Luo Desheng (Xianning College of Medicine, Hubei Province), "Impact of the Massotherapy Applied to Foot Reflexes on Blood Fat of Human Body," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 34-37

Impotence

Thirty-seven patients with sexual dysfunction (15: impotence, 9: premature ejaculation, 6: emission, and 7: ejaculation deficiens) were randomly assigned to two groups: 19 individuals were treated with foot reflexology and 18 with traditional Chinese medicine. No statistical difference was found between the two groups on age, occupation, education, degree of disease, spirit status, affection between the couple, sexual desire, and sexual intercourse for marital cases. In addition to foot reflex areas, massage was applied to specific acupuncture points of the body in the foot reflexology group. The effective rate of the foot reflexology treatment group was found to be 87.5% for impotence and 100% for the others. The effective rate of the traditional Chinese medicine group was found to be 85.7% for impotence and 100% for the others.

Jianhua, Sun, "The Comparison of Curative Effects Between Foot Reflexology and Chinese Traditional Medicine in Treating 37 Cases with Male's Sexual Dysfunction," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 75

Intestinal function

Austrian researchers previously documented that blood flow to the kidneys improved with reflexology technique application. Now, the members of the same group have shown improvement of blood flow to the intestines following reflexology technique application. Once again a controlled, randomized study has demonstrated that application of reflexology technique to reflex areas of the feet has an influence on a reflected body part. Moreover, the researchers are hypothesizing that the mechanism of action at work in reflexology is improved blood flow.

"An influence on organ-associated blood flow is considered as a possible mechanism of action of reflex zone massage of the feet (FRZM) therapy. In the present study we investigated whether changes in intestinal blood flow can be achieved by FRZM. Material and Methods: 32 healthy adults (19 women and 13 men) were randomly assigned to the treatment or the placebo group. Subjects of the treatment group received foot massage on the zones assigned to the intestines and those of the placebo group received massage on zones unrelated to the intestines. Before, during and after FRZM, the blood flow velocity, the peak systolic and the end diastolic velocities in the superior mesenteric artery as well as the resistive index as a parameter of vascular resistance were calculated. Results: During FRZM, in the subjects of the treatment group there was a significant reduction in the resistive index (p = 0.021), suggesting an increase in the blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery and the subordinate vascular system. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the resistive index in the subjects of the placebo group. Conclusion: The reduction in the resistive index observed in the treatment group supports the assumption that FRZM improves blood flow in the organs considered to be associated with the specific foot zones, at least during the therapy process."

J, Egger I, Bodner G, Eibl G, Hartig F, Pfeiffer KP, Herold M., "Influence of reflex zone therapy of the feet on intestinal blood flow measured by color Doppler sonography," [Article in German] Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd. 2001 Apr;8(2):86-9. (Universitatsklinik fur Innere Medizin, Innsbruck, Austria) (Copyright 2001 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg (Mur E, Schmidseder) PMID: 11340315

Irritable bowel syndrome

"Thirty-four patients with IBS were recruited from four GP practices. The study was approved and carried out in consultation with reflexologists. Half the patients received six 30 minute reflexology treatment sessions. The other half saw heath care staff for the same amount of time but received no reflexology treatment. Patients were asked to record symptoms for two weeks before their first session, two weeks after and for a fortnight three months after their treatment had ended. Severity of abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea and bloating were measured but the Leeds team, led by Dr. Philip Tovey, said none showed reflexology made no positive difference."

Dr. Phillip Tovey, Published in British Journal of General Practice (Reported December 31, 2001 at http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/health/newsid_1723000/17232900.stm)

Kidney function

Results of study: Kidney function improves after the application of reflexology work. "Using colour (sic) Doppler sonography blood flow changes of the right kidney during foot reflexology were determine in a placebo-controlled, double blind, randomised (sic) study. 32 healthy young adults (17 women, 15 men) were randomly assigned to the verum or placebo group. The verum group received foot reflexology at zones corresponding to the right kidney, the placebo group was treated on other foot zones. Before, during and after foot reflexology, the blood flow of three vessels of the right kidney was measured using colour Doppler sonography. Systolic peak velocity and end diastolic peak velocity was measured in cm/s, and the resistive index a parameter of the vascular resistance, was calculated. The resistive index in the verum group showed a highly significant decrease (p</=0.001) during and an increase (p=0.001) after foot reflexology. There was no difference between men and women and no difference between smokers and non-smokers. Verum and placebo groups significantly differed concerning alterations of the restive index, both between the measuring points before versus during foot reflexology (p=0.002) and those during versus after reflexology (p=0.031). The significant decrease of the resistive index during foot reflexology in the verum (treatment) group indicates a decrease of flow resistance in the renal vessels and an increase of renal blood flow. These findings support the hypothesis that organ-associate foot reflexology is effective in changing renal blood flow during therapy."

Sudmeier, I., Bodner, G., Egger, I., Mur, E., Ulmer, H. and Herold, M. (Universitatsklinik fur Innere Medizin, Inssbruk, Austria) "Anderung der nierendurchblutung durch organassoziierte reflexzontherapie am fuss gemussen mit farbkodierter doppler-sonograhpie," Forsch Komplementarmed 1999, Jum;6(3):129-34 (PMID: 14060981, UI: 99392031)

Kidney stones

A few years ago, researchers at Glostrop hospital, Copenhagen, demonstrated that reflexology can help relieve the acute pain suffered by patients with kidney stones. 30 patients participated in the study and were divided equally into three groups: one group received reflexology treatment, one group received placebo treatment and the remaining groups were used as controls.

If no pain relief was experienced within 5 minutes, the treatment would end for analgesic medications, but those who experienced a benefit within 5 minutes, treatment was continued for a further 10 minutes. The results showed that 9 out of the 10 patients in the reflexology group experienced complete pain relief after the treatment which lasted for over an hour and in 5 of the patients pain was relieved for 4 hours.

Medical doctors Niels Baekgaard and Vibe Hansen, who conducted the study, concluded that "Reflexology treatment of acute ureterolithiasis has a pain relieving effect" and when compared to Baralgin (a commonly administered analgesic), the findings revealed that reflexology actually works faster at alleviating pain although the effects last for a shorter duration.

Eriksen, Leila, "Clinical Trials of Acute Uretic Colic and Reflexology," Reflexology: Research and Effect Evaluation in Denmark, Danish Reflexologists Association, Kolding, Denmark, 1993, p. 10

Kidney and Ureter Stones

Foot reflexology was applied to 46 cases of lithotrity and compared to the results of 50 cases not treated with foot reflexology. The process of excreting the calculi broken by external lithotrity begins within one week of the procedure and finishes approximately after a month of pain experienced by the patient. Reflexology was applied to the treatment group daily for 30 minutes. Thirty cases in the reflexology group had begun excretion of fragmented calculus in seven days or less compared to 5 of the untreated group. Forty-three had begun in fifteen days or less compared to 22 in the untreated group. All forty-six of the untreated group had completed excretion in les than 20 days compared to 38 in the untreated group. Results: Lithotrity (external crushing of kidney and ureter stones) patients experienced less pain, began excretion of stones earlier, and completed excretion earlier than those who did not receive reflexology work.

Xiaojian, Ying, "Foot Reflexology as an Accessory Treatment after External Lithotrity a Clinical Observation of 46 Cases, 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 58 - 59

Leukopenia (A pathological level of white blood cell count)

Results of study: Foot reflexology work was found to be more effective than medication in effecting leukopenia, low white blood cell count.

Ya-zhen, Xu, "Treatment of Leukopenia with Reflexotherapy," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 32-37

Menopause

Seventy-six women between 45 and 60 years, reporting menopausal symptoms. Methods: Women were randomised to receive nine session of either reflexology or nonspecific foot massage (control) by four qualified reflexologists over a period of 19 weeks. Main outcome measures: The Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ), the primary measure s being the subscores for anxiety and depression. Severity (visual analog scale (VAS) a n frequency of flushes and night sweats. Results: Mean (SD) scores for anxiety fell from 0.43 (0.29) to 0.22 (0.25) in the reflexology group and from 0.37 (0.27) to 0.27 (0.29) in the control group over the course of treatment. Mean (SD) scores for depression fell from 0.37 (0.25) to 0.20 (0.24) in the reflexology group and from 0.36 (.023) to 0.20 (0.21) in the control (foot massage) group over the same period. For both scores there was strong evidence of a time effect (P<0.001) but no evidence of a time-group interaction (P>0.2). Similar changes were found for severity of hot flashes and night sweats. In the control group, 14/37 believed they had not received reflexology. Conclusion: Foot reflexology was not shown to be more effective than non-specific foot massage in the treatment of psychological symptoms occurring during menopause.

Williamson J, White A, Hart A, Ernst E., Randomised controlled trial of reflexology for menopausal symptoms, BJOG, 2002 Sep; 109(9):1050-5 (PMID: 12269681)

Menopause

Eighty-two women diagnosed with menopause were randomly divided into two groups. Forty-two women received foot reflexology and forty received foot reflexology with auricular point magnet adhesion. Thirty minute session were provided daily for 60 days.

Among women provided with foot reflexology at the conclusion of the study, 17 (40.48%) of the women had fully recovered, 20 (47.62%) had significantly recovered, 4 (9.25%) had effective results and 1 had ineffective results.

Among women provided with foot reflexology and auricular magnet adhesion at the conclusion of the study, 9 (22.5%) of the women had fully recovered, 16 (40%) had significantly recovered, 9 (22.50) had effective results and 6 (15%) had ineffective results.

Sun Jianhua, "Observation on the Therapeutic Effect of 82 Cases of Climacterium Syndrome (menopause) Treated with Reflexotherapy," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 60-61

Mental retardation

Mental retardation

Results of study: The feet of mentally retarded children were found to be of abnormal color and to show abnormal toe shapes as opposed to other children.

Feng, Gu; Zhao, Lingyun; Yuru, Yang; Jiamo, Hao; Shuwen, Cao and Xiulan, Zhang, "Comparative Study of Abnormal Signs in the Feet of Feebleminded Children, 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 9 - 13

Mental retardation

Results of study: Mentally retarded children were shown to improve significantly in height, weight, health states, social living abilities, and intellectual development when receiving foot reflexology as opposed to those not receiving treatment.

Lingyun Zhao; Yang Yuru, Feng gu; Jiamo, Hao; Shuwen, Cao and Xiulan, Zhang, "Observation on Improvement of Feeble-Minded Children's Social Abilities by Foot Reflexo-Therapy," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 24 - 28

Migraine headache

"Foot reflexology is defined as massage of zones on the feet which correspond to different parts of the body. A medline-search yielded no literature in the field of foot reflexology. Indications for and results of foot reflexology have been extrapolated from case-descriptions and two pilot studies with small samples. One study (Lafuente et al.) found foot reflexology to be as helpful to patients with headaches as medication (flunarizine), yet foot reflexology was fraught with less side-effects than medication. In a second study (Eichelberger et al.) foot reflexology was used postoperatively on gynecological patients. The intervention group showed a lesser need for medication to enhance bladder tonus than did the control group. The literature describes foot reflexology as enhancing urination, bowel movements and relaxation." Foot reflex zone massage (Kesselring A, Institut fur Pflegeforschung, Bern.)

In a blind random trial, (Lafuente) "examined 32 patients between the ages of 15 and 57. There were 25 women and 7 men randomly assigned to two groups. One group was given a placebo and received reflexology treatments two times a week for two or three monthes, The other group received Flunarizin traterment ( a slecetive calcium entry blocker with calmodulin binding properties and histamine blocking activity that has been efective in preventing migraines) and massage of a non -specific area twice a week for 12 sessions. patients were evaluated at the end of the study and again three months after the study. It was concluded that the reflexology treatment was at least as effective as the Flunarizin treatment and may be clasifed as an alternative non-pharmacological therapeutic treatment that would be particularly appropriate to thsoe patiet\nts that were unable to follow pharmacological treatment."

Testa, Gail W., "A Study on the Effects of Reflexology on Migraine Headaches" August 2000 (http://members.tripod.com/GTesta/Dissertationall.htm)

Lafuente A et al (1990). Effekt der Reflex zonenbehandlung am FuB bezuglich der prophylaktischen Behandlung mit Flunarizin bei an Cephalea-Kopfschmerzen leidenden Patieten.Erfahrungsheilkunde. 39, 713-715.

Heydenreich A., Institution: Abteilung Neurologie, Wilhelm-Pieck-Universitat, Rostock, "Treatment of migraine with controlled reflex methods and stimulation therapy," Schweiz Med Wochenschr Suppl, 62: 88-93 (1994) Authors:. [Review] [0 refs] [German] Zeitschrift fur Arztliche Fortbildung. 82(24):1247-9, 1988.

MeSH Terms: English Abstract; Female; Flunarizine/therapeutic use; Foot*; Genital Diseases, Female/surgery; Headache/therapy; Headache/drug therapy; Human; Massage/methods*; Postoperative Complications/therapy; Reflexotherapy/methods*; Urination Disorders/therapy

Milk secretion in new mothers

Two groups of new mothers were followed for satisfactory lactation. A treated group of 100 was given foot massage within 30 hours after delivery and 17 were given foot massage from 30 to 120 hours after for 10 to 15 minutes a day. No treatment was given to a group of 100 women. In the treatment group, lactation was initiated in 43.47 hours (+12.39 hours). In the control group it was 66.97 hours (+28.16 hours). In 72 hours satisfactory lactation was documented in 98% and 67% respectively in the two groups. Foot massage was found help avoid use of drugs in lactation that may be harmful to the baby.

Siu-lan, Li, "Galactagogue Effect of Foot Reflexology in 217 Parturient Women," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996 p. 14

Multiple schlerosis

Multiple sclerosis

Following a number of reports by reflexologists of MS patients benefiting from reflexology treatment, a small scale study was initiated backed by the Grampian branch of the Charity Action and Research for Multiple Sclerosis (GARMS) and the Scottish Institute of Reflexology.

GARMS provides regular hyperbaric oxygen therapy and physiotherapy for people with MS, and volunteers were asked to participate in reflexology study. Fourteen were assigned to a treatment group to receive a one hour reflexology treatment every week, and 13 patients were selected to act as a control group (one member dropped out leaving twelve who completed the study in the control group)

At the commencement of the study, participants were asked to asses nineteen of the most common symptoms as either minor, major or not applicable. The assessment was repeated after 6 weeks and 12 weeks when the participants also noted whether their symptoms had improved, worsened or not changed. The control were assessed using the same form at the same intervals as the treatment group, and both the treatment and control groups were asked at the time of the assessment whether on not their medication or diet had changed to assess possible external factors.

After 6 weeks, a significant number of people in the treatment group showed an improvement in their symptoms, and most of these improvements were maintained. During the second 6 week period, however, many of the participants had lost some of the improvements they had gained in the first 6 weeks; but after 18 weeks, the results revealed that those patients in the treatment group experienced some improvements in 45% of the symptoms compared to a much lower rate of 13% in the control group.

The results indicate that reflexology does offer some therapeutic benefit to MS patients especially in the first 6 weeks of treatment, although the treatment sessions need to be regular, and the benefits seem to diminish after twelve weeks.

Joyce M, Richardson R. "Reflexology helps multiple sclerosis," JACM July 1997 10-12

Multiple sclerosis

"To evaluate the effect of reflexology on symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. METHODS: Seventy-one MS patients were randomized to either study or control group, to receive an 11-week treatment. Reflexology treatment included manual pressure on specific points in the feet and massage of the calf area. The control group received nonspecific massage of the calf area. The intensity of paresthesias, urinary symptoms, muscle strength and spasticity was assessed in a masked fashion at the beginning of the study, after 1.5 months of treatment, end of study and at three months of follow-up. RESULTS: Fifty-three patients completed this study. Significant improvement in the differences in mean scores of paresthesias (P = 0.01), urinary symptoms (P = 0.03) and spasticity (P = 0.03) was detected in the reflexology group. Improvement with borderline significance was observed in the differences in mean scores of muscle strength between the reflexology group and the controls (P = 0.06). The improvement in the intensity of paresthesias remained significant at three months of follow-up (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Specific reflexology treatment was of benefit in alleviating motor; sensory and urinary symptoms in MS patients."

Siev-Ner I, Gamus D, Lerner-Geva L, Achiron A."Reflexology treatment relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled study," Mult Scler. 2003 Aug;9(4):356-61(Complementary Medicine Clinic, Department of Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel) PMID: 12926840

Neurodermatitis

Thirty cases of neurodermatitis were divided into two groups of 15 with the treated group receiving foot massage for 10 to 30 days and the other group receiving drug therapy. The effective rate for the treated group was 46.7% very effective and 53.3% effective. In the control group, 33.3% were very effective, 40% were effective and 26.7 were ineffective. Foot massage was seen as simple, effective, economical and lacking the side effects of drugs given the control group (fatigue, sleeplessness, gastrointestinal symptoms, with hormonal dermatitis resulting from long-term use).

Zhi-ming, Liu and Song, Fang, "Treatment of Neurodermatitis by Foot Reflex Area Massage (with a test group of 15 and a control group of 15)," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 16

Pain (Post surgical)

Results of study: Post surgical patients who receive foot massage and medication report "significantly less" agony than those on painkillers alone.

"Foot Rubs Easing Pain," Third Age. com, December 4, 1998

Pneumonia (Infantile)

Results of study: Infants who receive both medication and reflexology work recovered from infantile pneumonia more quickly than those who receive medication alone.

Liang-cai, Pei, "Observation of 58 Infantile Pneumonia by Combined Method of Medication with Foot Massage," A Clinical Analysis of 132 Cases," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 34

Post surgical care (Foot massage)

"This randomized-controlled study examined the effects of foot massage on patients' perception of care received following surgery. The sample of 59 women who underwent laparoscopic sterilization as day case patients were randomly allocated into two groups. The experimental group received a foot massage and analgesia post-operatively, whilst the control group received only analgesia post-operatively. Each participant was asked to complete a questionnaire on the day following surgery. This examined satisfaction, memory and analgesia taken. The 76% response rate was comparable with other patient satisfaction studies following day-case surgery. Statistical analysis showed no overall significant difference in the pain experienced by the two groups; however, the mean pain scores recorded following surgery showed a significantly different pattern over time, such that the experimental group consistently reported less pain following a foot massage than the control group. This study has attempted to explore the use of foot massage in a systematic way and is therefore a basis for further study."

Hulme J, Waterman H, Hillier VF, "The effect of foot massage on patients' perception of care following laparoscopic sterilization as day case patients," J Adv Nurs. 1999 Aug;30(2):460-8 (Stockport Acute Services NHS Trust, Anaesthetic Department, Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, England) PMID: 10457249

Post surgical care (Foot massage)

"Because of the widely presumed association between heart disease and psychological wellbeing, the use of so-called 'complementary' therapies as adjuncts to conventional treatment modalities have been the subject of considerable debate. The present study arose from an attempt to identify a safe and effective therapeutic intervention to promote wellbeing, which could be practicably delivered by nurses to patients in the postoperative recovery period following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Aim. To investigate the impact of foot massage and guided relaxation on the wellbeing of patients who had undergone CABG surgery.

"METHOD: Twenty-five subjects were randomly assigned to either a control or one of two intervention groups. Psychological and physical variables were measured immediately before and after the intervention. A discharge questionnaire was also administered. RESULTS: No significant differences between physiological parameters were found. There was a significant effect of the intervention on the calm scores (ANOVA, P=0.014). Dunnett's multiple comparison showed that this was attributable to increased calm among the massage group. Although not significant the guided relaxation group also reported substantially higher levels of calm than control. There was a clear (nonsignificant) trend across all psychological variables for both foot massage and, to a lesser extent, guided relaxation to improve psychological wellbeing. Both interventions were well received by the subjects.

"CONCLUSIONS: These interventions appear to be effective, noninvasive techniques for promoting psychological wellbeing in this patient group. Further investigation is indicated."

Hattan J, King L, Griffiths P, "The impact of foot massage and guided relaxation following cardiac surgery: a randomized controlled trial," J Adv Nurs. 2002 Jan;37(2):199-207 (Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Brighton, East Sussex, UK. jenniehattan@netscapeonline.co.uk) PMID: 11851788

Post surgical recovery

"The study's goal was to test if foot reflexology (FR) affects the well-being, voiding, bowel movements, apin, and/or sleep in women who underwent an abdominal operation. 130 sujects were randomised into three groups. For five days they were exposed to fifteen minutes of FR, foot/leg massage (FM) or talking respectively. Results show that the women in the FR group were more able to void without problems, agter the indwelling ccatetter had been removed than did women in the comparision groups. There was salso a tendency in the FR-group for the indwelling catheter to be removerd earlier than in the other groups. In comaprison the FR-subjects slept worse than the otherers. FM showed significant reults in the subjective measures of well-being, pain and sleep." (PMID: 9775925)

Kesselring A., Spichiger E., Muller M, "Foot Reflexology: an intervention study, Pflege 1998, Aug; 11(4):213-8

Post surgical recovery

"The aim of the study was to investigate the possible usefulness of foot reflexology on the recovery after a surgical intervention. 130 patients participated in the study. They underwent abdominal surgery under full anesthesia for different, but exclusively gynecological reasons. Foot reflexology investigated in this study was applied only for a few days for each patient. The following parameters were recorded: the subjective, self-assessed, general condition, pain intensity, movement of the bowels, micturition and sleep beginning on the day before the operation until day 10. Two other treatments served as controls, a simple massage of the foot or a personal conversation. The simple massage turned out to be a relaxing, positive experience, whereas foot reflexology had various effects, some of them even negative. The conclusion was that foot reflexology is not recommended for acute, abdominal postsurgical situations in gynecology because it can occasionally trigger abdominal pain. This project is one of the few studies planned, conducted and performed by the nursing staff" (PMID: 10077716)

Kesselring A., "Foot Reflexology massage: a clinical study." Forsch Komplementarmed 1999 Feb; 6 Suppl 1:38-40

Pre-menstrual syndrome

"Results of study: Reflexology improves the symptoms of 46% of those suffering from PMS. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether reflexology therapy--the application of manual pressure to reflex points on the ears, hands, and feet that somatotopically correspond to specific areas of the body--can significantly reduce premenstrual symptoms compared to placebo treatment.

"METHODS: Thirty-five women who complained of previous distress with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) were randomly assigned to be treated by ear, hand, and foot reflexology or to receive placebo reflexology. All subjects completed a daily diary, which monitored 38 premenstrual symptoms on a four-point scale. Somatic and psychological indicators of premenstrual distress were recorded each day for 2 months before treatment, for 2 months during reflexology, and for 2 months afterward. The reflexology sessions for both groups were provided by a trained reflexology therapist once a week for 8 weeks, and lasted 30 minutes each.

"RESULTS: Analysis of variance for repeated measures demonstrated a significantly greater decrease in premenstrual symptoms for the women given true reflexology treatment than for the women in the placebo group.

CONCLUSION: These clinical findings support the use of ear, hand, and foot reflexology for the treatment of PMS."

Oleson, Terry and Flocco, William, "Randomized Controlled Study of Premenstrual Symptoms Treated with Ear, Hand, and Foot Reflexology," Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1993;82(6): 906-11

Prostate (Hyperplasia of the)

90 cases of hyperplasia of the prostate were divided into 3 groups: in 30 cases foot reflex area was used, in 30 cases drug therapy was used, in 30 cases massage foot massage was combined with drug. "Ultrasonographic examinations were performed pre and post first course of treatment. Comparison is summation of sizes in three dimensions pre and after treatment. Criteria for effectiveness: significant effect - the differences >1.5cm., effective -difference=1-1.4cm. It is indicated that foot reflex area health promoting method may be used as a useful method in treatment for hyperplasia especially when combined with drug therapy."

Xiao-li, Chen, "Hyperplasia of Prostate Gland Treated by Foot Reflex Area Health Promoting Method (with a group of 90 study participants)," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, October 1996, pp. 32 - 33

Sexual dysfunction (Male)

Jianhua, Sun, "The Comparison of Curative Effects Between Foot Reflexology and Chinese Traditional Medicine in Treating 37 Cases with Male's Sexual Dysfunction," "Foot Reflexology as an Accessory Treatment after External Lithotrity a Clinical Observation of 46 Cases, 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 75

Sinusitis

"Reflexology massage" was found to be as effective as nasal irrigation for alleviation of chronic sinusitis in a University of Wisconsin School of Medicine study. Dr. Andrew Weil's Self Healing reports that "After two weeks of daily treatment, more than 70 percent of those who practiced either form of nasal douching reported improved symptoms. But surprisingly, the group that practiced reflexology massage - where pressure is applied to the feet or hands but may produce changes elsewhere in the body - appeared to fare equally well. The unexpected results for this technique may prompt further research." ("The Saline Solution?," Self Healing, January 2002, page 2)

"Reflexology massage" was utilized as a control in the testing of two nasal irrigation study groups, nasal irrigation with a bulb syringe and nasal irrigation with a nasal irrigation pot. One hundred fifty individuals were randomly assigned to one of the three groups. "Groups one and two performed daily hypertonic saline irrigation for two weeks with one method (bulb syringe or nasal irrigation pot) and then switched to the other method for the following two weeks. Irrigation devices were collected and cultured after two weeks of use. Group three (the control) performed reflexology massage daily for two weeks. Data was collected prospectively including pre-treatment Medical Outcomes Study Short Form, pre and post-treatment Rhinosinusitis."

"Overall, 36 percent of subjects reported decreased use of sinus medication (decongestants, antihistamines, pain relievers, and nasal sprays) during the study with no measurable difference between the three groups. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that daily nasal irrigation with hypertonic saline offers patients an inexpensive treatment protocol that improves chronic sinusitis symptoms. During the study, a number of patients decreased or eliminated medication.The choice of preferred irrigation protocol was likely linked to the randomization among patient subjects. It is unclear whether the improvement found in patients in the reflexology massage group reflects a therapeutic, placebo, or combination of effects. All the findings highlight the complex interactions of managing chronic sinusitis symptoms."

Diane G. Heatley MD, Glen E. Leverson PhD, Kari E. McConnell RN, and Tony L. Kille (the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI) "Nasal Irrigation for the Alleviation of Sinonasal Symptoms," presented Monday, September 25, 2000, at the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery Foundation Annual Meeting/Oto Expo, being held September 24-27, 2000, at the Washington, DC Convention Center (http://www.askdrbob.com/archives/reference/sinus.htm) (Published in Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2001 Jul;125(1):44-8)

Surgery: anxiety during (Hand massage)

"To evaluate the effects of hand massage on patient anxiety during cataract surgery. SETTING: Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital, Seoul, Korea. METHODS: This study comprised 59 patients having cataract surgery from December 11, 1996, to February 12, 1997. The patients were divided into those having a hand massage 5 minutes before surgery (experimental group, n = 29) and those not receiving a hand massage (control group, n = 30). Patients' anxiety levels were measured using the Visual Analog Scale and by assessing the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse rate before and after the hand massage and 5 minutes before the end of surgery. Epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, blood sugar levels, neutrophil, and lymphocyte percentages in white blood cells were also measured.

RESULTS: After the hand massage, the psychological anxiety levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and pulse rate were significantly lower than before the massage. The hand massage significantly decreased epinephrine and norepinephrine levels in the experimental group. Epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol levels increased in the control group. The differences between groups were significant. There were no significant between-group differences in blood sugar levels or neutrophil and lymphocyte percentages in white blood cells. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that hand massage decreases the psychological and physiological anxiety levels in patients having cataract surgery under local anesthesia."

Kim MS, Cho KS, Woo H, Kim JH, "Effects of hand massage on anxiety in cataract surgery using local anesthesia," J Cataract Refract Surg. 2001 Jun;27(6):884-90 (Department of Ophthalmology, Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital, Medical College, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea) PMID: 11408136

Toothache

Reflexology reduced the pain of 66% toothache patients and eliminated the symptoms of 26%.

Xue-xiang, Wang, "Relieve (150 Cases of) Toothache with Foot Reflexotherapy," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, October 1994, p. 132 - 135

Urinary tract infection

24 cases of urinary tract infection were divided into two groups. In the treated group norfloxin and foot massage were used. In the control group only norfloxin was used. Of the treated group, 5 showed immediate amelioration of disappearance of symptoms with 7 showing amelioration or disappearance on the second day. Of the control group 4 showed amelioration or disappearance on the second day and 8 showed amelioration or disappearance on the third day. Foot massage was found to be effective in treating urinary tract infection.

Yu-lian, Zao, "Clinical Observation on Treatment of Infection of Urinary Tract by Foot Massage," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), 1996, China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 17

Urinary tract stones

Results of study: Individuals who have received lithotrity (external mechanical impact on kidney or ureter stones) expel the fragmented stones more quickly following foot reflexology work.

Yue-jin, Zhang; Jing-Fang, Chung and Bao-rong, Ju, "Observation of the Effect of Foot Reflex Area Massage on 34 Cases of Calouli of Urinary Tract," (19)96 Beijing International Reflexology Conference (Report), 1996, China Preventive Medical Association and the Chinese Society of Reflexology, Beijing, 1996, p. 46

Urinary tract stones

Xiaojian, Ying, "Foot Reflexology as an Accessory Treatment after External Lithotrity a Clinical Observation of 46 Cases," 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 58 - 59

Uroschesis (retention of urine)

Forty cases were divided into two groups randomly. Of the forty, 34 could not urinate 3 to 4 hours after surgery on the cranium or brain and 6 could not urinate in 5 hours. Those of the control group listened to the sound of flowing water, massage was applied to the urinary bladder and other conditional reflexes were applied. Foot Reflexotherapy was applied for thirty minutes to those in the observation group. Results of study: 65% of the control group could excrete urine within 10 minutes of treatment as opposed to 30% of the control group. 25% of those in the observation group could excrete urine but not completely within 10 to 30 minutes of treatment as opposed to 45% of the control group. 10of the observation group were unable to urinate 30 minutes after treatment as opposed to 25% of the control group.

Cailian, Lin, "Clinical Observation on Treatment of 40 Cases of Uroschesis with Reflexology," 1998 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, pp. 52 - 53

From "Medical Applications of Reflexology". "Medical Applications of Reflexology" is available through our secure server.

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