Foot Reflexology
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Both caregivers and patients can benefit from reflexology. Reflexology is the application of pressure and gentle rubbing to the feet in a pattern that corresponds with parts of the body. This is based on the theory that areas of the feet and hands connect directly with organs, glands, and structures of the body. Applying pressure to specific areas of the feet can help different organ systems heal.
Foot reflexology has been used to relieve stress, anxiety, pain, and tension. Research indicates that it is helpful for cancer patients. A study of 23 patients with breast and lung cancer tested a foot reflexology intervention to both feet for 30 minutes daily. Patients were randomized to receive the foot massage, or not, over a period of weeks. Those who received the massage felt a significant decrease in anxiety, and the breast cancer patients reported less pain. Another study provided 87 cancer patients with 10-minute foot massages (not reflexology) and found a significant immediate effect on pain, nausea, and relaxation. A third study on patients with advanced cancer randomized 12 patients to receive reflexology or “placebo reflexology,” defined as gentle foot massage that did not stimulate reflexology points, on days one, three and five. All patients were asked before and after the intervention about their quality of life, and all reported improvement. The group that received authentic reflexology reported a statistically significant improvement over those who received placebo massages.
A reflexology session lasts from about 30 minutes to an hour and may cost anywhere from $25 to $75. A qualified reflexologist will have a certification in reflexology from the American Reflexology Certification Board, which involves a minimum of 110 hours of study with an additional 90 hours of documented practice of reflexology sessions and an exam.
For more information:
- American Reflexology Certification Board, PO Box 740879, Arvada, CO 80006, 303-933-6921, www.arcb.net
- The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology, 3rd edition, by Barbara and Kevin Kunz, 2005
- Foot Reflexology Awareness Association, PO Box 7622, Mission Hills, CA 91346-7622, 818-361-0528
- Association of Reflexologists, 27 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3XX, England, www.reflexology.org