Revisiting reflexology: Concept, evidence, current practice, and practitioner training.

Area of Science:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Holistic Health Practices

Background:

• Reflexology is based on the principle that specific points on the feet and hands correspond to internal organs and body parts.
• Practitioners use pressure and massage on these reflex points to stimulate and rejuvenate the body.
• This review examines the current understanding and evidence surrounding reflexology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revisit the concept of reflexology.
• To examine the effectiveness of reflexology.
• To review practices and training requirements for reflexology practitioners.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and SpringerLink.
• Keywords included: foot massage, reflexology, foot reflexotherapy, reflexological treatment, and zone therapy.
• Articles published within the last 10 years were included in the review.

Main Results:

• Previous systematic reviews have not found concrete evidence for specific effects of reflexology.
• Reflexology is widely accepted due to its non-invasive, non-pharmacological nature.
• Anecdotal evidence suggests positive effects of reflexology for various health conditions.

Conclusions:

• Adequate training for reflexology practitioners is essential for consistent service delivery.
• Further research may be needed to establish concrete evidence for reflexology's efficacy.
• Reflexology remains a popular complementary therapy with reported patient benefits.