Foot reflexology in painful conditions: systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Because foot reflexology is commonly associated with other interventions, its benefits are difficult to establish. In addition, systematic reviews have been carried out many years ago, analyzing unspecific parameters and controversial results. Thus, the objectives of this study were: analyze results randomized controlled trials a control group in painful conditions, using as single intervention; describe proposed application methodological quality studies (PEDro scale). CONTENTS: The PEDro, Pubmed, Scielo LILACS data bases were consulted, searching for clinical following keywords Boolean index: Foot Reflexology pain; massage pain (English, Portuguese Spanish). These should present title or summary article inclusion, directing moving away from variables. 95 found, 17 selected most favorable. usual varies 2-30 minutes stimulation on each foot, varying between massaging general somatotopic map stimulating solar plexus, correspondence zone accessory points related diagnosis. short, showed moderate good according PEDro scale. CONCLUSION: has shown promise relief an isolated therapy neuromusculoskeletal cases hospital outpatient settings. hope that excellent can support statement near future.