REFLEXOLOGY RESEARCH – FATIGUE

2024

FATIGUE, CHRONIC LYMPHOCYTIC LEUKEMIA

Comparing the impact of acupressure and reflexology on fatigue in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients: A randomized controlled trial with three arms. By Naser Parizad, Amireh Hassanpour, Rasoul Goli, Hamidreza Khalkhali, Aysan Nozad. Pub. by European Journal of Oncology Nursing, Volume 70, June 2024, 102573 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102573

Acupressure and reflexology are recommended as cost-effective and low risk complementary approaches for managing fatigue in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. These therapies offer promise in alleviating fatigue and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients.

2023

FATIGUE, HEMODIALYSIS,

The effect of foot reflexology on fatigue in hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis study. [Article in Spanish, English, Portuguese] By Seda Şahan, Sevil Güler. Pub. by Rev Lat Am Enfermagem. 2023 Oct 6:31:e4022. PMID: 37820220 PMCID: PMC10557398 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.6804.4022

It was concluded that foot reflexology can be used to reduce fatigue in hemodialysis patients. No information was provided in the investigated studies about the possible side effects and negative effects of foot reflexology. (1) This study found that foot reflexology reduced fatigue levels. (2) The 10-session foot reflexology was the most effective. (3) This study will guide nurses and health workers. (4) Reflexology is one of the non-pharmacological methods used to relieve fatigue.

ANXIETY, PAIN, FATIGUE, HAND REFLEXOLOGY, CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY

Effect of hand reflexology in ameliorating anxiety, pain, and fatigue among patients undergoing coronary angiography. By Eman Abdeen Ali 1, Wafaa Hassan Ali Awad 1, Mahmoud Abdelwahab Khedr 2, Emad Abd El Gawad Ali Rabie 1. Pub. by BMC Complement Med Ther. 2023 Nov 24;23(1):425. PMID: 38001461 PMCID: PMC10668458 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04256-6.

The current study findings showed that hand reflexology is a simple, non-invasive nursing intervention that is effective and useful for managing pain, fatigue, and anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography as it resulted in a significant reduction in the severity of pain, fatigue, and anxiety after coronary angiography in the study group compared to the control group.

PAIN, FATIGUE, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, HAND MASSAGE, REIKI.

The effects of Reiki and hand massage on pain and fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. By Kevser SevgiÜnal Aslan, Funda Çetinkaya. Pub. by Explore (NY) 2023 Mar-Apr;19(2):251-255. PMID: 35752581 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2022.06.006

The mean pain score and the fatigue severity of patients decreased after Reiki and hand massage interventions and the difference was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05).

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, PAIN, FATIGUE, QUALITY OF LIFE

Systematic review and meta-analysis of reflexology for people with multiple sclerosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. By Xiaohong Ma, Zhaoyu Yuan, Baicheng Qian, Yunxiang Guan, Baoliang Wang. Pub. by Medicine (Baltimore). 2023 Feb 3;102(5):e32661. PMID: 36749275 PMCID: PMC9902001 DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000032661

Reflexology therapy can be used as an effective intervention for the pain and fatigue of MS patients while improving the quality of life.

FATIGUE, PAIN, HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Effectiveness of reflexology and back massage for Hemodialysis patients with back pain and fatigue - a pilot study. By Prof. C. K. Muralidharan, Dr. P. Senthil, Mr. Gopala Krishnan, Ms. Santhiya. S, Dr. P. Senthil Selvam. Pub. by Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, VOL. 42 NO. 1 (2023)

The study's conclusions showed that hemodialysis patients had less fatigue and pain. A back massage is less helpful than foot reflexology. Reflexology massage is a secure and affordable physiotherapy method for easing fatigue and discomfort in hemodialysis patients.

FATIGUE, RADIOTHERAPY

Comparing the Effects of Warm Footbath and Foot Reflexology on the Fatigue of Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial. By Mazloum SR, Rajabzadeh M, Mohajer S, Bahrami-Taghanaki H, Namazinia M. Pub. by Integr Cancer Ther. 2023 Jan-Dec;22:15347354231172940. doi: 10.1177/15347354231172940. PMID: 37162156; PMCID: PMC10176550.

Our results showed that foot reflexology and warm footbath reduced the fatigue of patients undergoing radiotherapy. However, foot reflexology was more effective in reducing the fatigue of patients undergoing radiotherapy than warm footbath. It is recommended that simple and low cost non-pharmacological interventions such as foot reflexology to decrease of side effect of radiotherapy among cancer patients should be widely performed.

2022

ANXIETY, FATIGUE, CANCER

Foot Reflexology: Recent Research Trends and Prospects. By Deng-Chuan Cai, Ching-Yun Chen, Ting-Yun Lo. Pub. by Healthcare (Basel). 2022 Dec 20;11(1):9. PMID: 36611469 PMCID: PMC9819031 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11010009

Foot reflexology has been shown to have a moderating effect on anxiety, fatigue, and cancer, and is a topic of ongoing and future research. This study uses this bibliometric analysis of foot reflexology literature to provide an overview of prior knowledge and a reference direction for modern preventive medicine.

FATIGUE, PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY, TUBERCULOSIS

Effectiveness of Foot reflexology on level of fatigue among peripheral neuropathy, patient with Tuberculosis. By Tejeshwari B V, G.Bhuvaneswari, B.G.Parasuramalu, R.Vijayaraghavan. Pub. by Cardiometry; Special issue No. 25; December 2022; p. 121-128; DOI: 10.18137/cardiometry.2022.25.121128; Available from: http:// www.cardiometry.net/issues/no25-december-2022/effectiveness-foot-reflexology Introduction.

The study concluded that the foot reflexology of anti-tuberculosis drug-induced peripheral neuropathy among Tuberculosis patients from selected community area, Ramanagara Taluk & District, Karnataka carried out the study was found to be effective in decreasing the fatigue levels among peripheral neuropathy in person with Tuberculosis patients as evidenced by the significant change between pre-test and post-test scores.

MUSCLE CRAMPS, FATIGUE, ADOLESCENTS

Reflexology Massage and Adolescents Undergoing Hemodialysis: Literature Review. By Asmaa Sabry Attia Hassan, Gawhara Gad Soliman Ebrahem, Josephin Atef Abed El-Magid, Omayma Mustafa Abu Samra. Pub. by Mansoura Nursing Journal (MNJ) Vol. 9. No. 2 – 2022 Print ISSN: 2735 – 4121 Online ISSN : 2735 – 413X

This study is applied to investigate the effect of reflexology massage on adolescents undergoing HD and found that, the use of reflexology massage for adolescents undergoing HD had appositive effect on muscle cramps and fatigue levels.

FATIGUE, PARAPLEGIA, VETERANS

Effect of Six Weeks Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation Exercise and Reflexology on Fatigue Rate of Paralyzed Veterans. By Pourjafari Jorjafaki B, Hovanloo F, Mohammadi F. Pub. by Iran J War Public Health 2022; 14 (1) :19-24. URL: http://ijwph.ir/article-1-1071-en.html

Findings showed that virtual reality exercises and reflexology had a significant effect on fatigue in paraplegia veterans (p<0.05). A significant difference was observed between both experimental and control groups after the intervention (p<0.05). The reduction of fatigue was also significant in the massage group (p<0.05). Conclusion: There is a reduction in Fatigue rate in Paralyzed Veterans in both massage and virtual reality groups compared to the control group.

FATIGUE, HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

The Influence of Feet Reflexology and Back Massage on Hemodialysis Patients’ Fatigue. By Khamid, A., & Rakhmawati, A. (2022). Pub. by KnE Life Sciences, 7(2), 677–686. https://doi.org/10.18502/kls.v7i2.10368

It can be concluded that foot reflexology and back massage have an effect on reducing feelings of fatigue in hemodialysis patients.

JOINT PAIN, FATIGUE, SLEEP DEPRIVATION, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, HAND REFLEXOLOGY

Effect Of Hand Reflexology Massage On Pain, Fatigue And Sleep Deprivation In Patients Suffering From Rheumatoid Arthritis. By Sunil Kumar Sharma , Gurjar N. R. (2022). Pub. by Journal of Pharmaceutical Negative Results, 4633–4636. https://doi.org/10.47750/pnr.2022.13.S08.599

The study result findings revealed that there was significant reduction in joint pain, fatigue and sleep deprivation after administration of hand reflexology( p=0.005). Hand reflexology can be considered an effective intervention in reducing level of pain, fatigue and sleep deprivation among rheumatoid arthritis patients.

ANXIETY, FATIGUE, SLEEP, POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

The impact of foot massage given to postmenopausal women on anxiety, fatigue, and sleep: a randomized-controlled trial. By Gökbulut, Nilay PhD; Ibici Akça, Emine PhD; Karakayali Ay, Çiğdem MSc. Pub. by Menopause: Sept. 20, 2022 - Volume - Issue - 10.1097/GME.0000000000002062 doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002062

It was determined that foot massage applied during menopause increases the average daily sleep duration (hours) and reduces women's fatigue and anxiety levels.

PAIN, ANXIETY, SLEEP, FATIGUE, HEMODIALYSIS

Effect of Complementary and Integrative Treatments on Fatigue Symptoms in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review. By Melek Yeşil Bayülgen, Meral Gün. Holist Nurs Pract. 2022 Jan-Feb 01; 36(1):17-27. PMID: 34783697 DOI: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000489

In the literature, acupressure, aromatherapy, reflexology, massage, and yoga practice were found to be applied to hemodialysis patients and be effective in reducing pain and anxiety as well as improving sleep quality. It is recommended that these methods be included in the routine clinical care of patients receiving hemodialysis.

2021

FATIGUE, HAND & FOOT MASSAGE, HEMODIALYSIS

The effect of hand and foot massage on fatigue in hemodialysis patients: A randomized controlled trial. By Sultan Çeçen, Diğdem Lafcı. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2021 May; 43:101344. PMID: 33714863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2021.101344

Hand and foot massage were found to reduce fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis.

2020

PAIN, FATIGUE, CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY, HAND REFLEXOLOGY

The Effect of Hand Reflexology Massage on Pain and Fatigue in Patients after Coronary Angiography: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. By Nahid Rejeh, Seyed Davood Tadrisi, Shahrooz Yazdani, Kiarash Saatchi, Mojtaba Vaismoradi. Nurs Res Pract. 2020 Aug 29; 2020: 8386167 PMID: 32908698 PMCID: PMC7475748 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8386167

Statistically significant differences were observed in pain and fatigue scores between the groups after the intervention (P = 0.001). The intervention had medium to large effects on the patients' pain and fatigue. Hand reflexology as a nonpharmacological and safe technique, can be used by nurses along with other pharmacologic interventions in order to reduce patients' suffering related to invasive procedures.

PAIN, FATIGUE, SLEEP, KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION SURGERY

Effect of Foot Reflexology on Pain, Fatigue, and Quality of Sleep after Kidney Transplantation Surgery: A Parallel Randomized Controlled Trial. By Atena Samarehfekri , Mahlagha Dehghan , Mansoor Arab, Mohammad Reza Ebadzadeh. Pub. by Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020 Aug 1;2020:5095071. PMID: 32831868 PMCID: PMC7421603 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5095071

Foot reflexology may reduce pain and fatigue and improve sleep quality of patients after kidney transplantation.

BREAST CANCER, QUALITY OF LIFE, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, FATIGUE, NAUSEA, VOMITTING, PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY, WOMEN

A systematic review association of reflexology in managing symptoms and side effects of breast cancer treatment. By Ausanee Wanchai, Jane M. Armer. Pub. by Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, Volume 38, 2020, 101074, ISSN 1744-3881, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.101074.

The results showed that reflexology is associated with benefits for both psychological and physical aspects. Reflexology was reported to improve quality of life, but not for depression or anxiety. It was also beneficial for reducing fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, but not for peripheral neuropathy. Enough high level evidence has not been reported to confirm the effectiveness of reflexology on breast cancer symptom management.

2019

FATIGUE, PAIN, SLEEP, LYMPHOMA

The effect of foot reflexology on fatigue, pain, and sleep quality in lymphoma patients: A clinical trial. By Masoume Rambod, Nilofar Pasyar, Mohammad Shamsadini. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2019 Dec; 43:101678. PMID: 31669916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2019.101678

The results showed that reflexology could reduce fatigue and pain and improve the quality of sleep in patients with lymphoma. Considering the effectiveness of reflexology in lymphoma patients, healthcare workers including nurses are recommended to use this complementary therapy to reduce fatigue and pain and improve sleep quality in lymphoma patients.

ANXIETY, PAIN, FATIGUE, CARE BURDEN SCORE, CANCER, CAREGIVERS

Caregiver-Delivered Foot Reflexology: Effects on Patients and Caregivers. By Sevgin Samancioglu Baglama, Ercan Bakir. Holist Nurs Pract. Nov/Dec 2019; 33(6):338-345. PMID: 31609870 DOI: 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000351.

Mean pain, anxiety, and fatigue levels significantly decreased for the patients who received foot reflexology from their caregivers for 15 days compared with patients in the control group. The mean care burden score of the caregivers in both groups decreased. Clinicians should teach caregiving practices such as foot reflexology and know that these practices are a positive influence on both patients and caregivers.

FATIGUE, ANXIETY, STRESS, RELAXATION, HAND MASSAGE, CHEMOTHERAPY OUTPATIENTS

Hand Massage for Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy as Outpatients: A Pilot Study. By Susanne M Cutshall, Saswati Mahapatra, Rebecca S Hynes, Kimberly M Van Rooy, Sherry A Looker, Aditya Ghosh, Cathy D Schleck, Brent A Bauer, Dietlind L Wahner-Roedler. Explore (NY). Nov-Dec 2017; 13(6):393-399. PMID: 29097109 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2017.06.007

Significant improvement after hand massage was indicated by VAS scores for fatigue, anxiety, muscular discomfort, nervousness, stress, happiness, energy, relaxation, calmness, and emotional well-being. All patients indicated that they would recommend hand massage to other patients, and 37 were interested in receiving it during their next chemotherapy treatment.

FATIGUE, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS,

The role of non-pharmacological interventions in the management of rheumatoid-arthritis-related fatigue. By Fiona Cramp. Pub. by Rheumatology (Oxford). 2019 Nov; 58(Suppl 5): v22–v28. Published online 2019 Nov 4. doi: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez310 PMCID: PMC6827265 PMID: 31682276

Findings supported previous evidence that physical activity and psychosocial interventions have potential to produce small to moderate reductions in fatigue related to rheumatoid arthritis. Reflexology and aromatherapy interventions also appeared promising.

NAUSEA, FATIGUE, VOMITING, BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

The Effect of Reflexology on Chemotherapy-induced Nausea, Vomiting, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients. By Afitap Özdelikara, Mehtap Tan. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs. Jul-Sep 2017; 4(3):241-249. PMID: 28695171 PMCID: PMC5473096 DOI: 10.4103/apjon.apjon_15_17.

The present study proved that reflexology decreased the experience, development, distress of nausea, vomiting, and retching as well as fatigue in the experimental group. Hence, the use of reflexology is recommended for chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

SLEEP, FATIGUE, CANCER, CHEMOTHERAPY

The effects of sleep hygiene education and reflexology on sleep quality and fatigue in patients receiving chemotherapy. By Leyla Zengin, Rukuye Aylaz. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl). 2019 May; 28(3):e13020. PMID: 30784127 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13020.

The patients receiving chemotherapy had lower mean scores from the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Fatigue Severity Scale while they had increased sleep quality and decreased fatigue after sleep hygiene education and reflexology.

PAIN, FATIGUE, QUALITY OF LIFE, CHEMOTHERAPY, GYNECOLOGIC CANCER PATIENTS

Effects of Reflexology and Progressive Muscle Relaxation on Pain, Fatigue, and Quality of Life during Chemotherapy in Gynecologic Cancer Patients. By Hacer Alan Dikmen, Fusun Terzioglu. Pain Manag Nurs. 2019 Feb; 20(1):47-53. PMID: 29776873 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2018.03.001

Reflexology and progressive muscle relaxation exercises given to gynecologic cancer patients during chemotherapy were found to decrease pain and fatigue and increase quality of life.

FATIGUE, BREAST CANCER PATIENTS, WOMEN

The Effects of Reflexology on Fatigue Severity of Patients with Cancer. By Nourmohammadi H, Motaghi M, Borji M, Tarjoman A, Soltany B. Pub. by Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2019 Feb 26;20(2):391-394. doi: 10.31557/APJCP.2019.20.2.391. PMID: 30803197; PMCID: PMC6897012.

The present study showed that reflexology decrease fatigue severity in patients with breast cancer and community health nursing can to use of these complementary medicine to increase patients health conditions.

2018

SLOW STROKE BACK MASSAGE, FATIGUE, HEMODIALYSIS

"Effect of foot reflexology and slow stroke back massage on the severity of fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis: A semi-experimental study" By Ahmadidarrehsima, Sudabeh, Mohammadpourhodki, Reza, Ebrahimi, Hossein, Keramati, Maryam and Dianatinasab, Mostafa. Pub. by Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, vol. 15, no. 4, 2018, pp. 20170183. https://doi.org/10.1515/jcim-2017-0183

The result of this study showed that reflexology massage is a safe and economical nursing intervention for decreasing fatigue in hemodialysis patients.

PAIN, FATIGUE, SLEEP, QUALITY OF LIFE, BREAST CANCER, WOMEN

The Effect of Reflexology on the Pain-Insomnia-Fatigue Disturbance Cluster of Breast Cancer Patients During Adjuvant Radiation Therapy. By Ricardo Tarrasch, Narin N Carmel-Neiderman, Sarah Ben-Ami, Bella Kaufman, Raphi Pfeffer, Merav Ben-David, Dorit Gamus. J Altern Complement Med. 2018 Jan; 24(1):62-68. PMID: 28440664 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2017.0023

The results of the present study indicate that reflexology may have a positive effect on fatigue, quality of sleep, pain, and quality of life in breast cancer patients during radiation therapy. Reflexology prevented the decline in quality of life and significantly ameliorated the fatigue and quality of sleep of these patients. An encouraging trend was also noted in amelioration of pain levels.

2017

FATIGUE, BREAST CANCER, CAREGIVERS,

Caregiver-Reported Health Outcomes: Effects of Providing Reflexology for Symptom Management to Women With Advanced Breast Cancer. By Dawn Frambes, Alla Sikorskii, Irena Tesnjak, Gwen Wyatt, Rebecca Lehto, Barbara Given. Pub. by Oncol Nurs Forum. 2017 Sep 1;44(5):596-605. PMID: 28820516 DOI: 10.1188/17.ONF.596-605.

Informal caregivers who provided reflexology to individuals with cancer did not have negative psychological, physical, or social outcomes. Fatigue levels were lower among caregivers who provided reflexology. Implications for nursing: Clinicians need to be aware that providing supportive care interventions, such as reflexology, to reduce symptom burden does not increase negative outcomes on informal caregivers who provide this care, and it may even lead to reduced fatigue.

CHEMOTHERAPY, NAUSEA, VOMITTING, FATIGUE, BREAST CANCER

The Effect of Reflexology on Chemotherapy-induced Nausea, Vomiting, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients. By Afitap Özdelikara, PhD and Mehtap Tan. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs. 2017 Jul-Sep; 4(3): 241–249. PMCID: PMC5473096 PMID: 28695171

The present study showed that reflexology decreased the experience, development, distress of nausea, vomiting, and retching as well as fatigue in the experimental group. Hence, the use of reflexology is recommended for chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

FATIGUE, CARDIOVASCULAR PARAMETERS, SENIORS, WOMEN

Aromatherapy massage versus reflexology on female elderly with acute coronary syndrome. By Bahrami, T., Rejeh, N., Heravi-Karimooi, M., Vaismoradi, M., Tadrisi, S.D. and Sieloff, C.L. (2018). Pub. by Nurs Crit Care, 23: 229-236. https://doi.org/10.1111/nicc.12302

Implementation of both aromatherapy massage and reflexology has positive effects on the fatigue and cardiovascular parameters of patients with acute coronary syndrome. However, aromatherapy massage can be more beneficial to use as a supportive approach in coronary diseases.

FATIGUE, WOMEN, PREGNANCY

Effects of Counselling and Sole Reflexology on Fatigue in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial. By Fatemeh Shobeiri, Behnaz Manoucheri, Parisa Parsa, and Ghodratolah Roshanaei. J Clin Diagn Res. 2017 Jun; 11(6): QC01–QC04. PMCID: PMC5535443 PMID: 28764252

Based on the results of this study, counselling and sole reflexology significantly decreased fatigue in pregnant women. It is hoped that the results of this study can be used by all treatment groups and midwives for controlling and providing midwifery cares for pregnant women.

FATIGUE, SLEEP, PAIN, QUALITY OF LIFE, RADIATION THERAPY, BREAST CANCER, WOMEN

The Effect of Reflexology on the Pain-Insomnia-Fatigue Disturbance Cluster of Breast Cancer Patients During Adjuvant Radiation Therapy. By Ricardo Tarrasch, Narin Nard Carmel Neiderman, Sarah Ben-Ami, Bella Kaufman. April 2017 Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) 24(1). DOI:10.1089/acm.2017.0023.

PAIN, FATIGUE, INCIDENCE OF DISTENSION, QUALITY OF LIFE, COLORECTAL CANCER

Effects of foot massage applied in two different methods on symptom control in colorectal cancer patients: Randomised control trial. By Uysal, N, Kutlutürkan, S, Uğur, I. Pub. by Int J Nurs Pract. 2017; 23:e12532. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijn.12532

The classical massage was effective in reducing pain level and distension incidence while foot reflexology was effective in reducing pain and fatigue level, lowering incidence of distension and urinary frequency and improving life quality.

FATIGUE, DYSPNEA (SHORTNESS OF BREATH), CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

The Effect of Reflexology Applied to Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on Dyspnea and Fatigue. By Hatice Polat, Seher Ergüney. Rehabil Nurs. Jan/Feb 2017; 42(1):14-21. PMID: 26956942 DOI: 10.1002/rnj.266.

It was determined that the reflexology reduced dyspnea and fatigue in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

2016

Effect of Foot Reflexology on Fatigue in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Sham-Controlled Randomized Trial. By Mostafa Roshanravan, Leila Jouybari, HamidReza Bahrami Taghanaki, MohamadAli Vakili, Akram Sanagoo, Zakiyeh Amini. Pub. by J Mazandaran Univ Med Sci 2016; 26(137): 32-41 (Persian)

Reflexology can be used as a nursing intervention in reducing fatigue among patients undergoing hemodialysis.

BACK MASSAGE, FATIGUE, SLEEP QUALITY, HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

The effect of foot reflexology and back massage on hemodialysis patients' fatigue and sleep quality. By Kevser Sevgi Unal, Reva Balci Akpinar. Pub. by Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. Volume 24, August 2016, Pages 139-144. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.06.004

Foot reflexology and back massage were shown to improve the sleep quality and reduce the fatigue of hemodialysis patients. Compared to back massage, foot reflexology was determined to be more effective.

2015

FATIGUE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, WOMEN

Comparing the effects of reflexology and relaxation on fatigue in women with multiple sclerosis. By Fatemeh Nazari, Mozhgan Soheili Shahreza, Vahid Shaygannejad, Mahboubeh Valiani. Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. Mar-Apr 2015;20(2):200-4. PMID: 25878696 PMCID: PMC4387643

It seems that both interventions were effective in reducing fatigue, but the effects of reflexology on reducing fatigue were more than those of relaxation. Hence, as these two methods are effective and affordable techniques, they can be recommended.

FATIGUE, STRESS, DEPRESSION, POSTPARTUM WOMEN

Effects of Foot-Reflexology Massage on Fatigue, Stress and Postpartum Depression in Postpartum Women. [Article in Ko] By Mi Son Choi , Eun Ja Lee. Pub. by J Korean Acad Nurs. 2015 Aug;45(4):587-94. PMID: 26364533 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2015.45.4.587.

The results show that the foot reflexology massage is an effective nursing intervention to relieve fatigue, stress, and depression for postpartum women.

PAIN, SLEEP, FATIGUE, LIVER DISEASE/TRANSPLANT

Reflexology after End-Stage Liver Disease and Liver Transplant - A Case Study. By Cristina Posse, PHD, OTR/L Florida-licensed occupational therapist OT13544 Certified Hand & Foot Reflexologist. Pub. by the Academy of Ancient Reflexology. https://academyofancientreflexology.com/

The nature of this case study renders results that are only descriptive and subjective and no causality or correlation can be assumed. However, upon final interview, subject reported he felt very relaxed when getting home after sessions; he also said “it kind of helped my thinking” when referring to increased sharpness for playing chess in two opportunities – one with brother and one online match. Vital signs records and pain levels before and after sessions were mostly decreased. Sleep quality did not have noticeable changes, nor did fatigue or mood changes, but more studies are needed to determine statistical significance of the effects of reflexology on these variables for differ populations.

2013

PAIN, CRAMPS, FATIGUE, HAEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

The effect of reflexology applied on haemodialysis patients with fatigue, pain and cramps. By Gülistan Ozdemir, Nimet Ovayolu, Ozlem Ovayolu. Int J Nurs Pract. 2013 Jun; 19(3):265-73. PMID: 23730858 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.12066

It was determined that reflexology reduced the fatigue subscale scores and total scale scores as well as pain and cramp mean scores in the intervention group. The research results revealed that the severity of fatigue, pain and cramp decreased in patients receiving reflexology.

2011

FATIGUE, SLEEP, PAIN

Effects of foot reflexology on fatigue, sleep and pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. By Jeongsoon Lee, Misook Han, Younghae Chung, Jinsun Kim, Jungsook Choi. J Korean Acad Nurs. 2011 Dec;41(6):821-33. PMID: 22310867 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2011.41.6.821

This meta-analysis indicates that foot reflexology is a useful nursing intervention to relieve fatigue and to promote sleep. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology on outcome variables other than fatigue, sleep and pain.

2010

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS, FATIGUE

The effects of reflexology in reducing the symptoms of fatigue in people with rheumatoid arthritis: a preliminary study. By Simon Otter, Amanda Church, Anita Murray, Jody Lucas, Naomi Creasey, Jackie Woodhouse, Rachel Grant, Helen Cooper.
J Altern Complement Med. 2010 Dec; 16(12):1251-2. PMID: 21114404 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2010.0557

Abstract available for purchase

2009

PAIN, FATIGUE, DEPRESSION, QUALITY OF LIFE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Reflexology for the treatment of pain in people with multiple sclerosis: a double-blind randomised sham-controlled clinical trial. By C M Hughes, S Smyth, A S Lowe-Strong. Mult Scler. 2009 Nov; 15(11):1329-38. PMID: 19825891 DOI: 10.1177/1352458509345916

Significant decreases were observed for fatigue, depression, disability, spasm and quality of life. In conclusion, precision reflexology was not superior to sham, however, both treatments offer clinically significant improvements for MS symptoms via a possible placebo effect or stimulation of reflex points in the feet using non-specific massage.

STRESS, FATIGUE, BLOOD CIRCULATION, PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Effects of self-foot reflexology on stress, fatigue and blood circulation in premenopausal middle-aged women. [Article in Ko] By Soo Hyun Jang, Kye Ha Kim. J Korean Acad Nurs. 2009 Oct; 39(5):662-72. PMID: 19901496 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2009.39.5.662

The results showed that self-foot reflexology was effective in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and helped blood circulation in premenopausal middle-aged women. Conclusion: Self-foot reflexology may be an effective nursing intervention in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and in improving blood circulation.

2007

FATIGUE, SLEEP,+ WOMEN

Effects of Self-foot Reflexology on Fatigue and Sleep States in Women Nurses. By Ko, YS., Park, MK., Korean J Women Health Nurs. 2007 Mar; 13(1):21-27.

Self-foot reflexology was found to decrease fatigue and increase sleep states in clinical nurses. However, more intensive study is needed to verify to be effective.

FATIGUE, PREGNANT WOMEN

The effect of sole reflexology on severity of fatigue in pregnant women. By Pourghaznein T, Ghafari F. Pub. by Journal of Hayat. 2007; 12 (4) :5-11
URL: http://hayat.tums.ac.ir/article-1-190-en.html

According to the results of this study It is suggested that sole reflexology might have beneficial effects on reducing fatigue in pregnant women, and can be recommended as a nursing intervention program for this persons.

2005

NAUSEA, VOMITING, FATIGUE, BREAST CANCER, WOMEN

The effects of foot reflexology on nausea, vomiting and fatigue of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. By Jin-Hyang Yang. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2005 Feb;35(1):177-85. PMID: 15778569 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2005.35.1.177

Foot reflexology was effective on nausea, vomiting and fatigue in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy in this study. Therefore, foot reflexology can be usefully utilized as a nursing intervention in the field of cancer nursing for breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

2004

FATIGUE, WOMEN,

The Effects of Self-Administered Hand Reflexology on Fatigue in Student Nurses in Clinical Practice. By Oh SY., Lim NY., J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs. 2004 Dec; Oh SY., Lim NY., 11(3):256-264.

Self-Administering hand reflexology was not found to be an effective method for relieving fatigue in students nurses clinical practice. Further research is needed to identify the physiological effects.

FATIGUE, CANCER, TERMINALLY ILL

Combined modality treatment of aromatherapy, footsoak, and reflexology relieves fatigue in patients with cancer. By Hiroyuki Kohara, Takako Miyauchi, Yoko Suehiro, Hiroshi Ueoka, Hiroyasu Takeyama, Tatsuya Morita. J Palliat Med.2004 Dec; 7(6):791-6. PMID: 15684846 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2004.7.791

Combined modality treatment consisting of aromatherapy, footsoak, and reflexology appears to be effective for alleviating fatigue in terminally ill cancer patients. To confirm safety and effectiveness of this combined modality treatment, further investigation including randomized treatment assignment is warranted.

PAIN, FATIGUE, HIV/AIDS

Effect of foot reflexology on pain and fatigue in HIV/AIDS. By Ounprasertpong, LA; International Conference on AIDS (15th: 2004 : Bangkok, Thailand). Int Conf AIDS. 2004 Jul 11-16; 15: abstract no. ThPeD7743. Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

There were significant differences between the true foot and mimic reflexology on the fatigue and pain descriptive intensity scale, but not on a 1-item numeric pain intensity scale. The only vital sign difference was lower systolic blood pressure but the difference was not clinically meaningful. Conclusion True foot reflexology may offer a low cost, effective nursing intervention to reduce the symptom of fatigue and pain for hospitalized AIDS patients.

1994

FATIGUE, TRANSITIONAL DROWSINESS, CHILDREN

Transitional Drowsiness Treated with FRZ Massage, A Case Report. By Zhao, Y., 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, Beijing, China Reflexology Association, pages 23-24.

Foot reflexology was found to be effective for relief of transitional drowsiness.

FATIGUE, SLEEP, MUSCLE SORENESS,

Foot Reflex Zone Massage in Recovery of Fatigue in Athletes. By Liu, J., and Zhang, J., 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, Beijing: China Reflexology Association, pages 98-99.

Foot reflexology was found to be effective for the relief of fatigue and muscle soreness in athletes undergoing regular training.

MYASTHENIA GRAVIS (MUSCLE WEAKNESS), FATIGUE, WOMEN

Selected Case History One: Myasthenia Gravis. Author unknown, 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, Beijing: China Reflexology Association, pages 176-177.

Foot and hand reflexology was found to be effective for the relief of myasthenia gravis.

MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS (CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME)

Selected Case History Two: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. Author unknown. 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, Beijing: China Reflexology Association, page 178.

Foot reflexology was found to be effective for the relief of myalgic encephalomyelitis.