Effect of Reflexology to Depressive Symptoms in Women With Overactive Bladder

Authors: Aydin Yasemin, Aslan Ergul, Yalcin OnayJournal: Holistic nursing practicePublished: January 1, 2016DOI: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000166

Q2 JournalSJR: 0.45h-index: 47

Limited EvidenceObservational

Depression Urinary Tract Issues

In Plain Language: reflexology for depression, explained

This study is to determine the effect of foot reflexology on the level of depression in women with OAB. Study findings included in the study showed foot reflexology as a part of OAB treatment relieved urinary and depressive symptoms and had a positive effect on quality of life.

Key Findings: what this observational study found about depression

✓Foot reflexology as part of overactive bladder treatment relieved urinary symptoms in women with OAB.
✓Foot reflexology reduced depressive symptoms in women with overactive bladder.
✓Foot reflexology improved quality of life in women with overactive bladder.

What This Means for You

While this study suggests reflexology may help with depression and bladder symptoms, the evidence is preliminary and more research with larger groups is needed before making it a primary treatment.

What This Means for Practitioners

This research supports reflexology as a complementary approach for clients with overactive bladder and depression, though it should be positioned alongside conventional medical care.

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Reflexology for depression: common questions

Does reflexology help with depression?

While this study suggests reflexology may help with depression and bladder symptoms, the evidence is preliminary and more research with larger groups is needed before making it a primary treatment.

What did this study find?

Foot reflexology as part of overactive bladder treatment relieved urinary symptoms in women with OAB. Foot reflexology reduced depressive symptoms in women with overactive bladder. Foot reflexology improved quality of life in women with overactive bladder.

How strong is this evidence?

This is a observational study and we rate its evidence limited. It was published in Holistic nursing practice, a Q2 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.