Reflexology: recent research approaches
Preliminary EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology, explained
The intention of this paper is to examine recent published research in the field of reflexology and healthcare and consider the way forward for research work in reflexology. It will explore the various research approaches and methods, which have and could be used in answering questions about reflexology practice and outcomes for patients. The recommendations of the Foundation for Integrated Medicine Report (FIM 1997) with regard to conducting research and audit will be included in the paper. These are proposed here as a framework for both reviewing past studies and as guidance for future reflexology investigations. The authors themselves have conducted small reflexology studies and they will reflect on their experiences in analysing the research process. This paper does not aim to give a concise review of the literature to date but uses examples of recently published work to illustrate the issues that might confront researchers.
Key Findings: what this qualitative study found
- ✓The paper examines recent published research in reflexology and healthcare to identify appropriate research approaches and methods for studying reflexology practice and patient outcomes.
- ✓The Foundation for Integrated Medicine Report (FIM 1997) recommendations are proposed as a framework for both reviewing past reflexology studies and guiding future investigations.
- ✓The authors reflect on their own experiences conducting small reflexology studies to illustrate practical issues that researchers may encounter during the research process.
What This Means for You
This is a guide for researchers rather than a study with results, so it doesn't provide direct evidence about reflexology's benefits, but it highlights the importance of rigorous research methods to answer questions about whether reflexology works.
What This Means for Practitioners
Understanding diverse research approaches and methodologies can help reflexologists engage with and contribute to the evidence base for their practice.
Common questions about this study
What does this study mean in practice?
This is a guide for researchers rather than a study with results, so it doesn't provide direct evidence about reflexology's benefits, but it highlights the importance of rigorous research methods to answer questions about whether reflexology works.
What did this study find?
The paper examines recent published research in reflexology and healthcare to identify appropriate research approaches and methods for studying reflexology practice and patient outcomes. The Foundation for Integrated Medicine Report (FIM 1997) recommendations are proposed as a framework for both reviewing past reflexology studies and guiding future investigations. The authors reflect on their own experiences conducting small reflexology studies to illustrate practical issues that researchers may encounter during the research process.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a qualitative study and we rate its evidence preliminary. It was published in Complementary therapies in nursing & midwifery, a Q1 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
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