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An ABC of alternative medicine. Reflexology

Authors: Shaw JJournal: Health visitorPublished: November 1, 1987
Preliminary EvidenceObservational

In Plain Language: reflexology, explained

This paper provides an overview of reflexology as part of a series on alternative medicine approaches. It describes what reflexology is and how it is used in practice, though it does not present new research findings or clinical evidence.

Key Findings: what this observational study found

  • ✓Reflexology is presented as an alternative medicine approach that involves therapeutic techniques applied to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears.
  • ✓The paper describes practical applications of reflexology in clinical settings, though it does not provide new empirical evidence or clinical trial data to support its efficacy.

What This Means for You

This is an introductory overview rather than clinical evidence, so if you're considering reflexology, look for studies with stronger research designs to understand its actual effectiveness.

What This Means for Practitioners

Use this as an educational reference for general information about reflexology, but supplement it with higher-quality evidence and clinical research to support practice decisions.

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Common questions about this study

What does this study mean in practice?

This is an introductory overview rather than clinical evidence, so if you're considering reflexology, look for studies with stronger research designs to understand its actual effectiveness.

What did this study find?

Reflexology is presented as an alternative medicine approach that involves therapeutic techniques applied to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The paper describes practical applications of reflexology in clinical settings, though it does not provide new empirical evidence or clinical trial data to support its efficacy.

How strong is this evidence?

This is a observational study and we rate its evidence preliminary. It was published in Health visitor. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.

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