Is reflexology an effective intervention? A systematic review of randomised controlled trials.
Strong EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology, explained
This study reviewed all high-quality randomized controlled trials (the gold standard in research) testing whether reflexology—a therapy involving pressure on the feet—actually works. The researcher systematically searched for and analyzed the best available evidence to determine if reflexology is effective for treating health conditions.
Key Findings: what this systematic review found
- ✓The review examined only high-quality randomized controlled trials, which represent the gold standard for determining treatment effectiveness.
- ✓The study systematically analyzed evidence specifically testing whether reflexology—a foot pressure therapy—produces therapeutic benefits for health conditions.
What This Means for You
While reflexology is popular, a thorough review of the best scientific evidence found insufficient proof that it effectively treats most health conditions, so it should not replace conventional medical care.
What This Means for Practitioners
To strengthen the evidence base for reflexology, practitioners should support and participate in well-designed, adequately-powered randomized controlled trials with clear outcome measures.
Common questions about this study
What does this study mean in practice?
While reflexology is popular, a thorough review of the best scientific evidence found insufficient proof that it effectively treats most health conditions, so it should not replace conventional medical care.
What did this study find?
The review examined only high-quality randomized controlled trials, which represent the gold standard for determining treatment effectiveness. The study systematically analyzed evidence specifically testing whether reflexology—a foot pressure therapy—produces therapeutic benefits for health conditions.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a systematic review and we rate its evidence strong. It was published in The Medical journal of Australia, a Q1 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
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