Reflexology: no evidence of benefit
11 September 2009
Despite its popularity, reflexology has not been shown to offer any health benefits beyond a placebo (dummy treatment) effect and may even cause harm.
A systematic review of 18 randomised trials examining reflexology, which claims to treat a range of conditions — including asthma, dementia, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome and multiple sclerosis — found no convincing evidence that the approach was effective for any of the conditions (MJA 2009; 191: 263-66).
The reviewer, Professor Edzard Ernst, director of complementary medicine at the University of Exeter, UK, said while 5 of the trials yielded positive results, these were of poor methodological quality.
Better-quality trials did not generate positive findings, and sample sizes were generally small, he added.
Professor Ernst said while its practitioners claimed reflexology was a risk-free treatment, if employed as a complementary therapy to treat serious conditions, it could be life-threatening.
‘There is little doubt that a foot massage is pleasantly relaxing; however, specific medical claims should always be supported by sound evidence,’ he concluded.
Last Reviewed: 11 September 2009
- 1. Ernst E. Is reflexology an effective intervention? A systematic review of randomised controlled trials. MJA 2009; 191: 263-66
