Using complementary therapies: reflexology
Preliminary EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology, explained
Reflexology is a treatment based on massage of the feet to relieve symptoms in other parts of the body. Reflexology is slowly gaining acceptance by some practitioners of conventional medicine. Several training courses and registered bodies for reflexology exist.
Key Findings: what this observational study found
- ✓Reflexology is a massage-based treatment applied to the feet that is intended to relieve symptoms in other parts of the body.
- ✓Reflexology is gradually gaining acceptance among some conventional medical practitioners.
- ✓Multiple training courses and registered professional bodies for reflexology practitioners have been established.
What This Means for You
While reflexology is gaining some acceptance from healthcare providers, the evidence supporting its effectiveness remains limited, so consider it as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for conventional medical care.
What This Means for Practitioners
As reflexology continues to gain recognition in mainstream medicine, pursuing formal training and registration with established bodies can help legitimize your practice and build credibility with clients and healthcare providers.
Common questions about this study
What does this study mean in practice?
While reflexology is gaining some acceptance from healthcare providers, the evidence supporting its effectiveness remains limited, so consider it as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for conventional medical care.
What did this study find?
Reflexology is a massage-based treatment applied to the feet that is intended to relieve symptoms in other parts of the body. Reflexology is gradually gaining acceptance among some conventional medical practitioners. Multiple training courses and registered professional bodies for reflexology practitioners have been established.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a observational study and we rate its evidence preliminary. It was published in Professional nurse (London, England). Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
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