The Effect of Foot Reflexology Applied Before Coronary Angiography and Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty on Anxiety, Stress, and Cortisol Levels of Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Moderate EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology for anxiety, explained
A study investigated the effects of foot reflexology on anxiety and stress levels in patients undergoing coronary angiography and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. The findings revealed that patients who received reflexology before these procedures experienced significantly lower anxiety, stress, and cortisol levels compared to those who did not. This demonstrates the potential of reflexology as a therapeutic option to alleviate anxiety in medical settings.
Key Findings: what this randomised trial found about anxiety
- ✓Significant reduction in anxiety and stress scores in the experimental group (P < .001) after reflexology.
- ✓No significant difference (P > .05) in anxiety and stress scores before reflexology between groups.
- ✓Cortisol levels significantly decreased in the reflexology groups (P < .001), but not in control groups.
What This Means for You
For individuals considering reflexology treatment prior to coronary angiography or similar procedures, the study suggests that reflexology may effectively reduce anxiety and stress levels, helping to create a more calming experience.
What This Means for Practitioners
Reflexology practitioners can incorporate this study's findings into their practice by offering reflexology sessions to patients before coronary angiography and angioplasty, potentially enhancing patient comfort and reducing anxiety levels during these procedures.
Study Design: how this randomised trial was run
Limitations: what it cannot tell you about anxiety
The study sample consisted of a limited number of participants and was conducted in a specific medical setting, which may affect generalizability.
Reflexology for anxiety: common questions
Does reflexology help with anxiety?
For individuals considering reflexology treatment prior to coronary angiography or similar procedures, the study suggests that reflexology may effectively reduce anxiety and stress levels, helping to create a more calming experience.
What did this study find?
Significant reduction in anxiety and stress scores in the experimental group (P < .001) after reflexology. No significant difference (P > .05) in anxiety and stress scores before reflexology between groups. Cortisol levels significantly decreased in the reflexology groups (P < .001), but not in control groups.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a randomised trial and we rate its evidence moderate. It covers 116 participants. It was published in The Journal of cardiovascular nursing, a Q2 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
What are the limitations of this study?
The study sample consisted of a limited number of participants and was conducted in a specific medical setting, which may affect generalizability.
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