The Effect of Reflexology Socks in the Management of Opioid-Induced Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Strong EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology for constipation, explained
Constipation is an important symptom that is common in patients using opioids and leads to major health problems among patients. Reflexology is one of the approaches utilized to manage constipation. To examine the effect of reflexology socks on constipation in patients with opioid-induced constipation. This study was designed as a single-blind, randomized, controlled experimental trial. The study was conducted with the participation of a total of 101 patients who were suffering from cancer and other noncancer diseases, using opioids, and complaining of constipation. The patients in the intervention group (n = 51) were advised to walk with reflexology socks for 4 weeks, whereas the patients in the control group (n = 50) were advised to walk only. It was found that the severity of opioid-induced constipation was lower in the intervention group than in the control group at the end of the fifth week ( P < .05). Additionally, after the application, the quality-of-life mean score was lower in the intervention group (mean, 48.46 ± 24.66) compared with control group (mean, 109.88 ± 10.62), and reflexology socks were effective in enhancing quality of life in the intervention group ( P < .05). This study concluded that reflexology socks were an effective approach to the management of constipation. Reflexology socks may be more useful for patients to manage constipation because it is difficult to find a reflexologist, and reflexology sessions are charged and expensive. In this way, patients will wear reflexology socks comfortably and easily at home, and the severity of constipation will be alleviated.
Key Findings: what this randomised trial found about constipation
- ✓Patients who wore reflexology socks while walking for 4 weeks experienced significantly lower constipation severity compared to the control group by week 5 (P < .05).
- ✓Reflexology socks improved quality-of-life scores in opioid-induced constipation patients following the 4-week intervention period.
- ✓Reflexology socks represent a non-pharmacological management approach that can reduce opioid-induced constipation severity in both cancer and non-cancer patients.
What This Means for You
This study shows reflexology socks may help reduce opioid-related constipation and improve quality of life, and they offer a practical, affordable alternative to visiting a reflexologist.
What This Means for Practitioners
Reflexology socks represent an accessible way to extend reflexology benefits to patients who cannot access or afford in-person sessions, potentially expanding your service offerings.
Study Design: how this randomised trial was run
Reflexology for constipation: common questions
Does reflexology help with constipation?
This study shows reflexology socks may help reduce opioid-related constipation and improve quality of life, and they offer a practical, affordable alternative to visiting a reflexologist.
What did this study find?
Patients who wore reflexology socks while walking for 4 weeks experienced significantly lower constipation severity compared to the control group by week 5 (P < .05). Reflexology socks improved quality-of-life scores in opioid-induced constipation patients following the 4-week intervention period. Reflexology socks represent a non-pharmacological management approach that can reduce opioid-induced constipation severity in both cancer and non-cancer patients.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a randomised trial and we rate its evidence strong. It covers 101 participants. It was published in Cancer nursing, a Q1 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
Related Research
Complementary therapy in practice
Engaging Patients in Research That Involves Meditation: Religious Concerns and Nursing Implications
Improving Quality of Life in The Constipated Older Person: Reflexology or Abdominal Massage? A Two-Group, Randomized Comparative Trial
Mind-Body Interventions for People With Cancer: Evidence, Innovation, and Implementation
Therapeutic Massage for Cancer Survivors: An Umbrella Review
Looking for a reflexologist?
Find practitioners who can help with the conditions studied in this research.
Find a Reflexologist