Reflexology in the Last 30 Years: Giant Steps in Medical Uses and Scientific Research, Impacting Health Benefits

In the past 30 years, Scientific breakthroughs in reflexology  have allowed the increasingly frequent use of Reflexology in preventive and curative, family and specialized medicine, providing the user with complementary benefits to their physical and mental health, and quality of life. 

This recently published article Foot Reflexology: RecentResearch Trends and Prospects Dec 20, 2022 ( Pub Med Central  - U.S. National Institutes of Health's/National Library of Medicine (NIH/NLM) summarizes the bibliometric analysis of the scientific literature on Foot Reflexology published from 1991 to 2021, according to the non exhaustive data available from  the Web Of Science Core Collection.

Contents: 

• Worldwide research by country / Data Sources (Medical Journals - Web of Science Core Collection): 62 countries investigated Reflexology, forming 12 clusters of collaborative research, publications by 28 countries, the 10 most prolific being: USA, UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Iran, Turkey, Canada, Australia, India, Taiwan.
• Type of scientific study / Most prolific authors
• Evolution of publications from 1991 to 2021: 801 articles published in 414 scientific journals 
• Topics investigated/Guidance for future research: integrative complementary medicine; nursing; oncology; medicine, general and internal; neurosciences and neurology; psychology; health care sciences and services; rehabilitation; biomedical social sciences; and obstetrics and gynecology

Sources: 

Web Of Science Core Collection 

Foot Reflexology: Recent Research Trends and Prospects Dec 20, 2022 Deng-Chuan Cai,Ching-Yun Chen,Ting-Yun Lo,Teruhide Koyama NIH/PMC9819031  

Pub Med Central del U.S. National Institutes of Health's National Library of Medicine (NIH/NLM)

Reflexology and Mental Health: More Medical Evidence Here!

For years now, doctors have recognized the benefits of therapeutic foot reflexology by listening to their patients describe its positive effects, both physical and psychological, and seeing how thses participate in the improvement of the person under treatment.

For this reason,and for not so many years, scientific research in the world has multiplied and now corroboratea and explains the benefits of clinical reflexology, not only its physical and physiological benefits, but also as a therapy for mental health, improving our well-being, i.e. emotional, psychological and social states (that is, the way we think, feel and act in life).

As a mental health therapy, Reflexology helps to :

• Reduce stress and increase the feeling of relaxation
• Feel more energetic
• Manage anxiety
• Reduce and control both physical and emotional pain
• Overcome fatigue

Reflexology acts mainly through the nervous system, impacting the endocrine system, improving respiratory, circulatory, and immune functions... and thus the person's energetic and emotional state.

Sources:

Tyler Wheeler, MD & Julie Davis. Reflexology, WebMd August 25, 2021 shorturl.at/CKQV4

Brenta A Bauer, MD. Mayo Clinic, 29 July 2021 https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/what-is-reflexology/faq-20058139

http://www.barcelonareflexologia.com/2020/12/reflexologia-para-tu-salud-mental-y.html

Mechanisms and Outcomes of Reflexology: Most Recent Studies and Evidences of Benefits

Deeper investigation into reflexology as well as evolving imaging techniques allow to better understand how Reflexology works as a complex - if not complete therapy - or as diverse “Therapeutic Modalities” depending on the nature of reflexology applied (Foot Reflexology types vary in their choice of : reflex points protocol, pressure intensity, patterns of movements, frequency/duration of treatment,  and other factors or a combination of factors.)

Mechanisms. Reflexology and how it works is explained through:

• The Reflex Zone Theory
• The highly sensitive nature of the human foot: it is one of the body´s most sensitive area to sensory stimulation, rich in mechanoreceptors innervation.
• The mechanotransduction effect of reflexology stimuli (or the ability of a cell to actively sense, integrate, and convert mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals that result in intracellular changes, such as ion concentrations, activation of signaling pathways and transcriptional regulation.)
• The piezoelectric effect of reflexology stimuli and its impact on the autonomic nervous system and neural transmission.
• The changes and balancing effects of reflexology on the fascial system (Fascia is a system that surrounds, interweaves between, and interpenetrates all organs, muscles, bones and nerve fibres, endowing the body with a functional structure, and providing an environment that enables all body systems to operate in an integrated manner), molecular and muscoskeletal systems. (“The plantar fascia on the sole of the foot manipulated during reflexology, links to the Achilles tendon which sits within the superficial back line of fascia, tracing up the back of the leg, onwards to the spine and then over the back and top of the head to the brow. The myofascial transition of plantar fascia-gastrocnemius; gastrocnemius-hamstrings; hamstrings-lumbar fascia/erector spinae/occipito-frontalis is of particular interest for the reflexologist. Working the reflexes on and around the plantar fascia may have an effect on those body parts, as adjustment and release occurs all the way up from foot to head.”)
• Therapeutic relationship : psychological benefits of therapist/patient interconnection, rapport and empathy
• Therapeutic touch: beneficial nature of human touch
• Hawthorne effect (change of patient´s reaction and behaviour when allowing/receiving increased attention )
• Placebo effect
• Encouraging, diagnose-free, natural healing environment

Outcome and Benefits:

• Stress and techno-stress modulator
• Hormonal balance
• Haemodynamic effects (or improvement of blood flow)
• Improved propioception  (the body's ability to sense movement, action, and location), stability and balance. (“Studies have shown that the retinacula of the ankle and foot are rich in nerve fibres and proprioceptors...which, through stimuli...deliver signals to the brain about spatial positioning and effective movement in space.”
• Induces sleep-state brainwaves leading to
• Better sleep and rest
• Improvement of inmune system
• Improvement of anxiety and depression
• Heightened cognitive functions
• Improved digestive functions
• Reduced pain perception (threshold, tolerance, duration)
• Improved inflammatory conditions
• Release of muscular tension
• Facilitates adaptation to circadian movements
• Urinary bladder control
• …

Reflexology: Exploring the mechanism of action. JudithWhatley, JoannePerkins, CarolSamuel. Elsevier Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice - Volume 48, August 2022, 101606 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1744388122000743

Principios de Reflexologia Dr. Jesus Manzanares Corominas, Paidos Iberica Ediciones, Sp

Migraine or Headache: Scientific Studies Demonstrate Efficacy of Reflexology in Both Conditions

Headache is the manifestation of pain and pressure sensation in the skull. It is usually present on both sides of the head. 

It occurs with muscle contractions of the neck, face, scalp, or shoulders, due to tension, stress, anxiety, depression, head trauma, or poor head posture maintained for a certain time (when sitting at the computer for example, or when sleeping with bad posture). A cold or sinusitis, eye strain, bruxism (teeth-clenching), excessive caffeine consumption (or caffeine withdrawal), tobacco, alcohol... can also cause headaches. 

Headache is more common in adults, and in women. 

It rarely reflects a serious health problem. It does not worsen with routine physical activity. It improves with rest, and it improves and can disappear with reflexology. 

Migraine is a more extreme, recurring type of headache, usually on one side of the head, with a throbbing sensation: it is a constitutional disorder with an inherited basis. It can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting, and increased sensitivity to lights (photophobia) or noise (phonophobia). 

Stress, menstruation or hormonal changes, climate changes, intense physical activity... can trigger or worsen migraine. 

It improves with rest. Symptoms, duration, intensity, frequency improve with Reflexology

Today numerous world-wide scientific studies demonstrate the effectiveness of Reflexology in preventing and treating both headaches and migraines, relieving pain and other symptoms, shortening their duration, reducing their frequency. Reflexology is a safe and effective non-pharmacological option in the management of headaches and migraines for those who suffer from them.

A pragmatic case series o clients living with medically diagnosed migraine self-refered to reflexology. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, Elsevier Nov 2020 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1744388120311051

Analysis of the efficacy of Reflexology in the complex treatment of  migraine SafonovMI, Naprienko MV Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakpva, 01 Jan 2017 https://europepmc.org/search?query=AUTH%3A%22M%20I%20Safonov%22

Effects of Reflexology in reducing migraine attacks, pain, duration, intensity and ferquency in females. Journal of Chinese Medicine, Elsevier April 2017 WojciechKobsa PaellLizis, Halina RomualdaZieba  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S025462721730047X

Dolor de Cabeza o Cefalea 19 abril 22 CuidatePlus https://cuidateplus.marca.com/enfermedades/neurologicas/dolor-cabeza-o-cefalea.html#:~:text=El%20dolor%20de%20cabeza%20o,se%20presenta%20de%20forma%20intermitente

Effect of applying reflexology massage on nitroglycerin-induced migraine-type headache: A placebo-controlled clinical trial. Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmıa, Iran Submitted (Başvuru tarihi) 02.10.2017 Accepted after revision (Düzeltme sonrası kabul tarihi) 13.04.2018 https://www.journalagent.com/agri/pdfs/AGRI-43815-EXPERIMENTAL_AND_CLINICAL_STUDIES-GHAVAMI.pdf

Reflejoterapia podal para combatir el estrés CuidatePLus 8enero 2002 https://cuidateplus.marca.com/enfermedades/enfermedades-del-pie/2002/01/07/reflejoterapia-podal-salud-pies-8030.html

Improve Your Balance, Blood Pressure, and Mood with Reflexology and... Walking on Cobblestone

Several scientific studies confirm the benefits reaped by people of all ages in Asian countries by walking barefoot on cobblestones, 30 minutes daily. The stimulating effect results from the activation of certain reflex points (nerve endings which are numerous in the feet) such as in foot reflexology. 

The studies carried out underline positive results in: 

• Sleep quality 
• Pain relief 
• Dialostic blood pressure 
• Balance 
• Control over possible falls 
• Mood improvement 

Among a multitude of other benefits, Foot Reflexology also confers the above, and acts more specifically on reflex points determined according to the conditions sought to be improved. For people who do not have a garden or outdoor path, there are cobblestone rugs on the market, as well as reflexology insoles. 

Visit:  www.reflexologybarcelona.com for your next clinical reflexology session.

Study confirms benefits of cobblestone walking for older adults – News dical Life Sciences Oregon Research Institute 2005 https://www.news-medical.net/news/2005/06/29/11422.aspx 

Health Benefits of cobblestone mat walking - Human Kinetics Journal 2022 https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/japa/11/4/article-p487.xml

Reflexology in Hospitals Throughout Europe

In many European countries (see below), the use of foot reflexology in hospitals

It offers the patient an alternative to relieve pain and reduce the tensions created, sometimes generated by heavy treatments.

It also makes it possible to accompany the patient during long stays in the hospital, who, in fact, may find himself morally and psychologically tired. This is where reflexology plays its calming role.

“The wonderful thing about the integration of reflexology in the hospital setting is the birth of the collaboration between the reflexologist, the doctor and the healthcare team. This simple collaborative approach allows patients to be entitled to a new kind of care, a new opportunity to alleviate their suffering.” In a crisis situation, reflexology can sometimes calm as effectively as medication." Says Dr. Martine Faure-Alderson. He carried out research at the Marie Curie Institute in Paris that has made it possible to classify the practice of reflexology among non-invasive psycho-corporal therapies for fighting pain (and which includes tactile massage, hypnosis and relaxation techniques... .)

Reflexology is used as a holistic, preventive and/or complementary therapy in, for example: cancerology, diagnostic imaging, gerontological, perinatal, pediatric care, angiology, psychology, addictions...

Reflexology allows deep relaxation, and acts against pain. Improves blood circulation. Normalizes organic and glandular function.

Here are some of the many western countries where reflexology is present in hospitals and medical centers:

Switzerland: https://www.la-tour.ch/en/care-services/perinatal-reflexology-consultation

France: https://www.proformed.fr/actualites/la-reflexologie-dans-les-services-hospitaliers/

Spain :

ICO, Cataluña https://ico.gencat.cat/web/.content/minisite/ico/ciutadans/documents/arxius/2017-05-Cast.CALENDARIO-DE-EDUCACION-PARA-LA-SALUD.pdf

San Joan de Deu, Barcelona https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcDFBOIV1VY

Teknon, Barcelona https://www.teknon.es/es/especialidades/riambau-alonso-vicente/reflexologia-podal

U:K: https://www.healthysoul.co.uk/resources/therapies-a-z/nhs-provision-complementary-therapies/

Denmanrk, Norway: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21244655/

Reflexology Proven Efficient in Back Pain Treatment from Cervicals to Lumbars,Sacrum and Coccyx, Arthrosis, Sciatica, Piriforme Syndrome

 

Scientific evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of reflexology in the treatment of back pain inherent to osteoarthritis, piriformis syndrome, sciatica and various other causes.

Reflexology is a complementary, natural and harmless therapy that acts on the central nervous system through manual and calming stimulation of specific reflex points in the feet and hands, sending messages to the brain, that naturally changes and decreases how pain is perceived.

Reflexology facilitates body and mental relaxation, benefits circulation, breathing, and the immune response, among other therapeutic effects.

Foot reflexotherapy induces analgesia in low back pain. Hindawi 2017 https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2017/2378973/

The effects of reflexology on low back pain intensity...Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery, 2012 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3696219/

Effects of foor refleology on p ain and anxiety after cervical spine surgery, 2021 https://hqlo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12955-021-01667-2

Efectividad de la reflexologia podal en pacientes con atrosis cervical. Medisan 2017 www.redalyc.org/pdf/3684/368449645002.pdf

What is Reflexology, WebMed Aug, 21.2021 https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-reflexology