Is reflexology an effective intervention?

Last year UK complementary medicine expert Dr Edzard Ernst presented a thorough study on the effectiveness of reflexology. What did the report of the book ‘Trick of Treatment‘ report? “Reflexology: ‘bodywork on your hands & feet!‘“ Reflexology was described in the study as a technique that involves applying pressure to various parts of the foot or hands, which is said to have a beneficial effect on other parts of the body. Ernst searched six databases and found 217 trials on reflexology, of which only 18 randomised controlled trials were considered good enough to be analysed. Of these 18 trials, only five yielded positive results, says Ernst. Ernst describes: “Most of the higher-quality trials did not generate positive findings. The best evidence available to date does not demonstrate convincingly that reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition.” Ernst says proponents of reflexology argue the method is risk free but he argues it could be “life-threatening” if patients relied on it to treat a serious condition. “There is little doubt that a foot massage is pleasantly relaxing, however specific medical claims should always be supported by sound evidence.” SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER READING: • Four benefits of a reflexology massage! • Reflexology: ‘you can do it yourself’! • Is reflexology an effective intervention? A systematic review of randomised controlled trials. [ABSTRACT] Reflexology relates to various massage techniques.