Reflexology Research & Science
Does reflexology work? The honest answer from 808 peer-reviewed studies: the evidence is mixed and mostly early-stage. 245 are randomized controlled trials and 221 are systematic reviews or meta-analyses. The strongest signals are for relaxation, anxiety, and pain, not for curing disease. Every study is below, graded by evidence strength and pulled from PubMed.
808 studies · page 40 of 68
Use of reflexology in managing secondary lymphoedema for patients affected by treatments for breast cancer: A feasibility study
The aim of this feasibility study was to examine the use of reflexology lymphatic drainage (RLD) in the treatment of breast-cancer related lymphoedema (BCRL) with a view to further research. An uncontrolled trial was conducted with 26 women who had developed lymphoedema in one arm following treatment for breast cancer. Changes in upper-limb volumes and in participant concerns and wellbeing were measured. Qualitative data were also collected. A significant reduction in the volume of the affected arm was identified at follow-up compared to baseline. This reduction in volume appeared to be maintained for more than six months. Participant concerns were significantly reduced and their wellbeing significantly increased. No serious adverse effects were reported. RLD may be a useful intervention for BCRL although the results could not be attributed to the reflexology intervention because of research design limitations. The main conclusion was, however, that there was sufficient evidence for further research using a randomized controlled trial.
limited evidence
Q2 JournalThe effect of reflexology on the autonomic nervous system in healthy adults: a feasibility study
Reflexology has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in various populations. The mechanism by which this occurs may be in modulating autonomic nervous system (ANS) function; however; there is limited evidence available in the area. The aim of the study was to investigate the feasibility of using an experimental model to determine the physiological effect of reflexology on stress. A feasibility study to assess an experimental study design to compare the effect of reflexology and control interventions on heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) following mental stress tests. The Health and Rehabilitation Science Research Institute at the University ofUlster, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Twenty-six healthy volunteers. Mental stress was induced before and after intervention. Participants in the reflexology group received 20 minutes of reflexology, and the control group received 20 minutes of relaxation with a therapist holding each participant's feet. The outcome measures, HR and BP, were measured throughout mental stress testing intervention, and a second period of mental stress testing following intervention. The study design was considered feasible. There were significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (22%; P = .03) and in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (26%; P = .01) during mental stress following reflexology compared to the stress period prior to intervention. In contrast, there was a 10% reduction in SBP (P = .03) but a 5% increase in DBP (P = .67) during the period of mental stress following the control intervention compared to results obtained during mental stress prior to this intervention. However, there were no significant differences between reflexology and control groups. This study has demonstrated the feasibility of conducting an experimental study on the effect ofreflexology in stress using BP as the primary outcome measure. Results from such a study would address the lack of high-quality evidence for the physiological effect
Exploring the Efficacy of Plantar Reflexology as a Complementary Approach for Headache Management: A Comprehensive Review
Headaches are a prevalent health issue affecting diverse populations worldwide, driving a growing interest in complementary therapies like reflexology. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the potential of plantar reflexology as a complementary approach for managing headaches. Employing a systematic approach, databases were scoured for studies on plantar reflexology's efficacy in headache management. From 23 initial contenders, three studies meeting the inclusion criteria, two randomized controlled trials and a pilot study, were examined for treatment efficacy and quality. Our review highlights three primary studies, collectively indicating a significant enhancement in treatment efficacy within the plantar reflexology groups when compared to control groups. These findings suggest that plantar reflexology exhibits potential as an effective complementary therapy for managing headaches. However, in light of these promising results, a more cautious approach is advisable. There is a pressing need for more rigorous and high-quality research to substantiate these outcomes in real-world contexts and applications. Plantar reflexology emerges as an option within the field of headache management. While its efficacy is promising, the specific mechanisms behind its action require further investigation. Positioned among a range of treatment modalities, plantar reflexology distinguishes itself as a safe and non-invasive alternative. This review underscores the necessity for additional research, encouraging the scientific community to delve into this intriguing avenue for headache relief and expand our comprehension of its potential advantages.
Interventions for leg edema and varicosities in pregnancy. What evidence?
Leg oedema from venous insufficiency is not dangerous but it can cause women symptoms such as pain, feelings of heaviness, night cramps and paraesthesiae. Leg oedema can be a sign of pre-eclampsia when associated with raised blood pressure or proteinuria. The objective of this review was to assess the effects of treatment to relieve the symptoms associated with varicosity in pregnancy and to reduce leg oedema. We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register in October 2004 for randomised trials of any form of treatment for varicosity and or leg oedema in pregnancy. Trial quality was assessed and data were extracted. Four trials of three different treatments were included. In one trial, women given rutoside capsules in the last 3 months of pregnancy noted an improvement in symptoms compared with placebo (relative risk 0.54 95% CI 0.32, 0.89). They had a decrease in ankle circumference at 36 weeks' gestation after 8 weeks of treatment, while women given placebo had a small increase. In one trial, women with ankle oedema had a small non-significant reduction in lower leg volume when treated with external pneumatic intermittent compression for 30 min. In another trial compression stockings prophylactically reduced the emergence of leg symptoms but not venous varicosities (relative risk 0.74 95% CI 0.59, 0.93). Lymphatic reflexology was studied in too few women to draw conclusions. In conclusions, rutosides appear to relieve symptoms of venous insufficiency in late pregnancy. However, it is not known if the drug is safe in pregnancy. External pneumatic compression appears to reduce ankle swelling and compression stockings reduce leg symptoms but not varicose veins.
moderate evidenceEffect of Reflexology on Menopausal Problems and Quality of Life: A Scoping Review
Menopause is a natural life stage marked by hormonal shifts that often affect women's well-being. Reflexology, a safe and non-pharmacological therapy, may help support wellness during this transition. To present an overview of the literature on the effect of reflexology on menopausal problems and quality of life. The review followed the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) scoping review framework. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Web of Science using combinations of terms related to perimenopause/menopause, women, reflexology (zone therapy, foot/palm massage), and outcomes such as sleep, fatigue, stress, vasomotor and perimenopausal symptoms, depression, physiological parameters, and health-related quality of life. Article screening and reporting adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Based on the inclusion criteria adopted, 11 articles were included in the scoping review. Among them, three explored the impact of reflexology on menopausal symptoms, two assessed its effectiveness in reducing depression, and another two investigated its influence on both menopausal symptoms and quality of life. One study evaluated its effect on menopausal symptoms and cortisol levels, one examined the outcomes related to sleep quality and fatigue, another focused on sleep, and one investigated quality of life. Of these studies, six were randomized controlled trials, three employed a quasi-experimental design, and two utilized a pre- and post-test control group design. Research on reflexology among menopausal women shows promising benefits, including reductions in menopausal symptoms, fatigue, depression, and sleep disturbances, and improvement in the overall quality of life. Further rigorous and controlled research is necessary to support the evidence before reflexology can be endorsed as a routine clinical approach for managing menopausal symptoms and enhancing women's quality of life. menopausal symptoms, depression, fatigue, sleep, quality of lif
Insights into effective fatigue reducing interventions in kidney transplant candidates: a scoping review
Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom among kidney transplant candidates (KTCs), significantly affecting their quality of life and overall well-being. Its complexity necessitates a comprehensive approach to manage fatigue in this population. To explore the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions in reducing fatigue in KTCs. Nonpharmacological interventions targeting fatigue in participants aged ≥18 years, who were either on the kidney transplantation waitlist or eligible candidates, were considered. A database search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Results were reported in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Protocols extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist. In total, 67 studies were included. Interventions were divided into manipulative and body-based practices, exercise, mind-body therapies, energy healing, and combined interventions. Thirty-eight studies (76%) demonstrated a significant effect on fatigue, with effect sizes ranging from 0.43 to 4.85. Reflexology, massage therapy, progressive muscle relaxation, and acupressure combined with massage therapy showed the strongest significant intervention effects on fatigue and had the strongest study quality. However, the overall study quality was weak, particularly concerning confounding control, blinding procedures, and withdrawals and dropouts. Manipulative and body-based interventions showed the strongest significant effects on fatigue with the highest study quality. These interventions underscore the multifactorial nature of fatigue by targeting both its physical and psychological dimensions. Future high-quality research is needed to determine the optimal strategy for managing fatigue in KTCs.
Mind-Body Interventions in Patients With Heart Failure: State of the Science
Complementary and alternative medicine are broadly considered mind-body interventions (MBIs) that support physical and mental wellness in patients with heart failure (HF). The aims of this review were to integrate and summarize current evidence from MBIs in patients with HF and to identify gaps for future research. We used PRISMA guideline and conducted a literature search through six databases. Fifteen publications met the criteria, published between 2013 and 2021. This review stipulated that MBIs included yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, reflexology, massage, relaxation, and breathing interventions. The findings emphasized that MBIs could reduce physical and psychological symptoms and improve health outcomes in patients with HF. MBIs had encouraging results for patients with HF on selected physiological and behavioral outcomes. Despite the early state of the evidence in this field, it seems that MBIs will play an essential role in the future for alleviating the symptoms of patients with HF.
Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer has high mortality and morbidity rates, associated with the issues of typically late diagnosis and the limited effectiveness of current treatments. Patients tend to experience multiple symptoms that can include anxiety, fear, depression, fatigue, weakness, peripheral neuropathy, and abdominal pain, which reduce quality of life (QoL) and may compromise the treatment continuum. Many of those symptoms are amenable to complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) therapies as a part of supportive and palliative care. This article reviews research findings on the beneficial effect of use of CIM modalities in regard to pancreatic cancer, with emphasis on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Given the often-poor prognosis of the disease, patients with PDAC often seek integrative therapies to help manage the disease itself, to provide support through cancer treatment and its symptoms, and to provide emotional stress relief. Data is accumulating in the past few years on the potential benefits of CIM to the management of pancreatic cancer symptoms and treatment side effects, in order to augment supportive care. This data reveal that nutrition counselling; digestive enzyme therapy; microbiome support; dietary supplements; lifestyle interventions (physical activity and circadian health/sleep hygiene) appear to improve QoL of these patients through reduced symptom burden and meeting psychological needs, such as distress and fatigue. Acupuncture, mindfulness, yoga, reflexology, massage, and homeopathy may also contribute to symptom reduction, both physical and psychological, in all stages of the disease. There is supporting evidence that some CIM modalities may alleviate side effects and symptoms related to pancreatic cancer and its treatment, suggesting that practitioners might consider integrating these modalities in certain situations encountered in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Further investigation is needed to define the optimal integration of CI
Massage therapy in rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. Although pharmacological treatments, such as therapies with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic agents, have improved disease outcomes, many patients continue to experience residual symptoms that impair their quality of life. This review examines the role of massage therapy as a complementary intervention in RA, focusing on its clinical benefits and underlying mechanisms. A systematic search of Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) up to February 2025 was conducted using relevant MeSH terms. Evidence from clinical studies suggests that massage modalities-including Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage, and foot reflexology-can reduce pain, improve joint function, and modulate inflammatory markers (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) and cortisol levels, thereby promoting neuroendocrine balance and lymphatic drainage. Furthermore, massage therapy may offer additional benefits in managing comorbid conditions and enhancing psychological well-being. This review also underscores the pivotal role of nurse-led care in integrating massage therapy into comprehensive treatment plans, despite existing challenges in training and standardization of protocols. Future research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is essential to establish robust guidelines and optimize the use of massage therapy as an adjunct treatment in RA.
Treatment of chronic insomnia disorder in menopause: evaluation of literature.
This paper reviewed existing research on treatments for insomnia that occurs during menopause, examining what scientific evidence shows works best. The authors analyzed multiple studies to provide doctors and patients with guidance on the most effective and safe options for managing sleep problems caused by hormonal changes.
Chiropractic care for hypertension: Review of the literature and study of biological and genetic bases.
This paper reviews existing research on whether chiropractic care can help lower high blood pressure and explores the biological mechanisms that might explain how it works. The authors examined the literature to understand if spinal manipulation and related treatments could be effective for hypertension management.
A pragmatic case series of clients living with medically diagnosed migraines self-referred to reflexology
Migraine affects approximately 2% of the population of the UK with around 190,000 people experiencing a migraine daily. This study investigated the effectiveness of reflexology on migraine symptoms provided under pragmatic, personally funded conditions. Data was gathered on a case series of 20 reflexology clients with medically diagnosed migraine. All participants self-referred to a member of the Association of Reflexologists (AoR). The Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) was completed at each appointment. All participants received six reflexology sessions. In terms of an improvement in the overall MYMOP profile, 75% (n = 15) of clients had an improvement of two or more points. The minimal clinically important difference for the MYMOP change score is 1.0; this was achieved by 90% (n = 18) of participants. The mean difference in scores for each of the MYMOP aspects was calculated and the greatest improvement was found with symptom 1, their chosen primary symptom, which changed an average of 3.40 points (95% CI: 2.35, 4.45.) CONCLUSION: The results indicate the potential for reflexology to relieve the symptoms of migraine.
Does reflexology work? Common questions
Is reflexology scientifically proven?
No. The most careful reviews conclude reflexology isn't a proven treatment for any specific medical condition. What the research more consistently supports is relaxation and short-term relief of anxiety and pain. We track 808 studies here, graded by evidence strength, so you can judge for yourself.
Does reflexology actually work?
It depends what you mean. For curing or treating a disease, the evidence doesn't support it. For helping people relax and feel less anxious or in less pain during a session, a number of small studies are positive, including 245 randomized controlled trials and 221 systematic reviews or meta-analyses in this library.
Is reflexology a pseudoscience?
Reflexology's core idea, that specific points on the feet map to distant organs, isn't backed by anatomy or physiology, and that's why critics call it pseudoscience. The relaxation and comfort people feel during a session are real, though. It's best understood as a complementary relaxation practice, not a medical treatment.
What is reflexology best supported for?
The strongest and most consistent evidence is for relaxation and short-term reduction in anxiety and pain, plus some cancer-care symptoms like nausea and fatigue. Evidence for treating specific diseases is weak. Use the evidence-strength filter to sort studies by how solid they are.
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