The Advantages Of Reflexology

Reflexology professionals massage the hands, ears and feet of patients to help to alleviate conditions or symptoms elsewhere in the body. This alternative medical practice has similarities with acupuncture and acupressure, but is completely non-invasive. While reflexology should not be considered a cure for any diseases, millions of people have relied on this practice to complement more traditional treatments, according to the Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota.

Relieve MS Symptoms

A 2003 study published in the "Journal of Multiple Sclerosis" said that reflexology may reduce symptoms in patients with MS. In a randomized trial, researchers found that patients with MS who were treated with reflexology experienced a reduction in motor, sensory and urinary symptoms. Even three months after the study was completed, participants still reported improvements in these symptoms.

Reduce Pre-Surgery Stress

A 2001 study in the "Journal of Cataract Refractive Surgery" found that reflexology reduces psychological and physiological stress in patients prior to cataract surgery. When nurses applied reflexology to the patient's hand prior to anesthesia, patients reported lower levels of anxiety, and also experienced a reduction is pulse and blood pressure.

Improve Patient Experience During Cancer Treatment

A 2007 pilot study at Michigan State University reported that reflexology was the most effective complementary or alternative medical treatment for cancer patients. Patients going through chemotherapy were more likely to stick with reflexology treatments than any alternative program. For these patients, reflexology reduced stress and anxiety and helped to support the patient through chemotherapy sessions. Participants also reported a greater sense of well-being.

This study reinforced findings from a 2000 study published in the "Journal of Nursing Standards" that found that reflexology helps to improve overall quality of life when used as part of a cancer treatment program.

Alleviate PMS Symptoms

In a 1993 article published in the "Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology," researchers found that reflexology of the hands, feet and ears served as an effective way to relieve pre-menstrual symptoms. This alternative treatment may help to reduce cramps and other PMS symptoms, whether used alone or in combination with traditional medications.

Reduce Migraine Pain

A 2000 report presented at the National Headache Foundation's Annual Conference revealed that reflexology serves as an effective treatment for migraine headaches. In a blind, randomized trial, researchers found that patients treated with reflexology experienced the same level of migraine relief as those treated with medications.