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The physiological basis of reflexology and its use as a potential diagnostic tool
Abstract
Ill-health changes the anatomy and physiology of affected organs, some of which can be observed visually, elicited through physical examination or confirmed through biomedical analysis. Understanding how anatomical changes contribute to physiological signs and symptoms will help practitioners identify the pathology, appreciate its origin and development and justify prescribed interventions in a way which can be upheld by critical external scrutiny. Reflexology contributes to an holistic approach to care and has recently improved its credibility as a discipline which supports orthodox care. Several research publications have identified possible theories and principles for the mechanism of action of reflexology, but more research to explain its contribution in identifying ill-health and diseases, as well as appropriate treatment modalities, is needed. This paper explores the physiological basis of reflexology, some of the theories for the mechanism of action and its potential as a diagnostic tool.
... Since each body organ has reflections in the foot, palm, and ear, reflexology experts believe that hands and feet are the body's mirror and map of the body embodies in hands and feet. erefore, certain reflective stimulant influences related organs and systems [23,24]. All organs and glands in the body are associated with reflective points in feet, hands, and ears. ...
... Various theories have been presented to describe the effect of reflexology and one of them is the stimulation of neural receptors through emphasizing the relationship between the central and peripheral nervous systems [23,24,27]. Reflexology has been shown to reduce pain and fatigue in chronic diseases such as in patients with lymphoma [28]. ...
... Applying pressure on a certain point on the hand and foot can increase blood circulation, neural impulses, and secretion of endorphin and improve the body function [29,30]. Researchers have raised theories for explaining biological, physiological, and metaphysical mechanisms of reflexology including the energy channel theory, meridian theory, nerve impulse theory, electromagnetic theory, pain gate control theory, and zone theory [24,31]. According to the gate control theory by Wall and Melzack in 1965, painlessness is caused by the electrical stimulation of the nerve. ...
Introduction:
Coronary angiography can cause pain and fatigue in patients. Hand reflexology as complementary and integrative care approach has been suggested to help with the reduction of patient's pain and fatigue.
Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand reflexology on pain and fatigue in patients after coronary angiography.
Design:
A randomized controlled clinical trial.
Methods:
This study was conducted on 90 patients in an angiography department of a referral hospital in an urban area of Iran. The patients were randomly divided into two interventions (n = 45) and control (n = 45) groups. Hand reflexology was performed for 20 minutes in the intervention group. Pain and fatigue in the groups were measured immediately, 4 and 6 hours after the intervention.
Results:
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. The trial is registered with IRCT20110912007529N17.
... One of such non-medical methods is reflexology or reflexology therapy that is a noninvasive technique. It is based on the idea that reflexive spots are located on the foot and palm corresponding to each part of body, muscle, bone or gland (6). As a complementary therapy, reflexology has been used from ancient era until now and involves massaging particular spots on the feet or palms affecting different parts of the body. ...
... Recently, reflexolo-gy has become particularly important due to medical and supplementary medical advances (1). They have encouraged the consumption of labor painkillers (1,6). The findings of present research indicated a reduction in the mean intensity of labor's pain in the intervention group compared to the control. ...
... Reflexology stimulates and regulates this sensory system and the neural pathways (7,8,23). A body of research has also indicated pain during labor is reduced by stimulating reflex zone for uterus,the pituitary gland and other pelvic organs (6). ...
Background: Pain control is considered as the key issue in modern midwifery. Along with medical painkillers, reflexology is viewed as a non-medical and noninvasive method. Hence, we aimed to investigate the effect of reflexology on the intensity of pain and length of labor. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial, participants included 240 Iranian primiparous women with term and singleton pregnancy. Having a 3-4 cm cervical dilatation once they visited the hospital. Through a convenient sampling method, they were selected and then randomly divided into two groups. In the intervention group, reflexology was performed, and the intensity of pain during the active phase of labor along with the length of labor in the active phase was measured by visual analog scale (VAS) and compared with the control group. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, and Mann-Whitney U-test. Result: Data analysis showed a statistically significant difference between the intensity of pain in the 5-7 and 8-10 cm dilatation in the two groups (P=0.01). Moreover, the labor length in the active phase was found to be significantly shorter in the intervention group (P<0.001). Conclusion: It appears that reflexology can lead to a reduction in the pain and length of labor. Therefore, through instructing this technique, a goal of midwifery, which is reducing labor pain and its length can be achieved. Keywords: Reflexology, Labor Pain, Labor Length, Primiparous Women
... Different theories explain these changes 14 . Most studies attribute the changes to a modulation of the nervous system 5 . ...
... In the days following or between sessions, other types of manifestations can appear before improvement, such as the reappearance of old pains, irritation, irritability or exhaustion among others 21,23,26,27 . This suggests that the effectiveness of the treatment is a peripheral vasodilation response, which occurs to eliminate the accumulation of local toxins 14 . Some authors, such as Marquartd, define these manifestations as unpleasant or annoying because of the way they are manifested and for the feeling of discomfort, they cause in the client. ...
... They often affect the eyelids, calves or thumbs and are generally caused by stress or anxiety 53 , which could explain the movements observed in this study. According to the results obtained, it could be stated that the spontaneous movements observed during the session triggered variations in muscle tone 14 to release physical tensions contained in the tissues. ...
Recent studies on reflexology describe the appearance of different application-associated effects, attributed to a self-regulatory mechanism related to treatment efficacy. On the other hand, sleep is a physiological process of vital importance for health. Its main value lies in restoring the natural balance between neuronal centers. Among its associated behavioral characteristics are spontaneous movements and eye movements. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects that occur during application of reflexology and that are not described in the literature. This is a descriptive observational study with a quantitative methodology. Abivariate anlysis has been conductec through chi-square test or Anova as apropiate. A total of 111 clients of a therapy center in Tarragona have participated in the study. They were assigned into four groups (musculoskeletal, stress, anxiety, mantenance). Reflexology was administered and observered the manifestations that occured during the session. The findings have identified four categories of effects, of which there was no previous reference. These effects can be related to any of the stages of sleep. This study shows that reflexology promotes its application for different effects, such as eye movements and spontaneous movements. These data reveal the need to investigate these effects and their impact on health as well as their possible relationship with sleep.
... It helps relieve pain and anxiety and improve sleep quality in patients with many diseases [1][2][3]. However, the mechanism of the reflexology is still uncertain [4]. Some previous studies suggested that foot massage at reflex points despite unilateral sole may activate the brain, as demonstrated in bilateral electroencephalographic changes [5,6]. ...
... e mean age was 38.6 years (37. 4 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 3 the experimental group and 38.8 years in the control group). One participant in the experimental group had hypertension. ...
Background:
Foot reflexology is a treatment with the hypothesis that such massage stimulation on the feet may cause a therapeutic effect which should be helpful for smoking cessation. However, its mechanism of action in the brain of smoking people remains unknown. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is helpful for real-time brain activity detection. We aim to compare the brain activity effects of foot reflexology with fMRI between smoking and nonsmoking subjects.
Materials and methods:
We divided participants into experimental (smokers) and control groups (nonsmokers). Both groups received similar foot reflexology under the fMRI examination. Then, we compared the mean response score in each brain area before and after foot stimulation among groups and between groups.
Results:
Five nonsmokers and fifteen smokers had completed the study. All participants were right-handed males, with a mean age of 38.6 years. The fMRI brain response in the areas correlated with foot stimulation, including the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe and the postcentral gyrus of the parietal lobe, was present for all participants. The fMRI response outside the correlated area, including other parts of the frontal and parietal lobes, the temporal and occipital cortices, and the thalamus, was also found in all participants, but was not consistent.
Conclusions:
The fMRI of the brain is feasible and safe for demonstrating foot reflexology reactions. The response signal outside the correlated motor-sensory cortical area with foot reflexology may have clinical significance and may be helpful for smoking cessation. We suggest conducting a large-scale, randomized controlled trial to confirm these findings.
... However, prolonged stimulation will lead to adaptation of the large fibers which will eventually result in opening of the presynaptic pain gates [13]. This adaptation can be modulated by employing additional stimuli during cupping therapy such as vibration and scratching to stimulate the large fibers again [15]. This increased activity will lead to the closure of the pain gates and experiencing further pain relief [15]. ...
... This adaptation can be modulated by employing additional stimuli during cupping therapy such as vibration and scratching to stimulate the large fibers again [15]. This increased activity will lead to the closure of the pain gates and experiencing further pain relief [15]. More research is needed to validate the application of this theory in cupping therapy. ...
Cupping therapy is an ancient method which has been used for centuries for various painful conditions. It is performed by applying cups to selected skin points most commonly in the back aiming to create areas of sub-atmospheric pressure. It has been classified as either dry or wet type of therapy. Its mechanism of action is not well understood but several proposed mechanisms are described in the literature. It is relatively safe with a few reported side effects which include scar formation and skin infection. In this paper, a review of the literature will be presented to determine its potential benefits in pain management particularly in musculo-skeletal conditions such as low back and neck pain.
... As with skin-to-skin contact during massage, reflexology point pressure could trigger the release of endogenous endorphins and encephalins that help to reduce labour pain, stress, fatigue and anxiety. [43][44][45][46] Pressure on the solar plexus at the border of the upper and middle one-third of the sole is believed to facilitate the functions of the body's nervous system. 47 Pressure on the lower part of the forefoot reflects the heart and lungs. ...
... First, the autonomic-somatic integration theory suggests that the pressure applied to the feet during reflexology compresses the receptors in the cells, thus opening up the ionic channels in the plasma membrane and triggering a local action with the potential to convey messages to the spinal cord and/or brain. 46 The application of alternating pressure to the feet may also produce predictable reflexive actions within the nervous system and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. 50 Based on the energy theory that posits that energy moves towards the head from reflex points that stimulate the neural paths, improve blood flow, release the endorphins and relief pain. ...
Introduction
Labour pain is among the severest pains primigravidae may experience during pregnancy. Failure to address labour pain and anxiety may lead to abnormal labour. Despite the many complementary non-pharmacological approaches to coping with labour pain, the quality of evidence is low and best approaches are not established. This study protocol describes a proposed investigation of the effects of a combination of breathing exercises, foot reflexology and back massage (BRM) on the labour experiences of primigravidae.
Methods and analysis
This randomised controlled trial will involve an intervention group receiving BRM and standard labour care, and a control group receiving only standard labour care. Primigravidae of 26–34 weeks of gestation without chronic diseases or pregnancy-related complications will be recruited from antenatal clinics. Eligible and consenting patients will be randomly allocated to the intervention or the control group stratified by intramuscular pethidine use. The BRM intervention will be delivered by a trained massage therapist. The primary outcomes of labour pain and anxiety will be measured during and after uterine contractions at baseline (cervical dilatation 6 cm) and post BRM hourly for 2 hours. The secondary outcomes include maternal stress hormone (adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol and oxytocin) levels, maternal vital signs (V/S), fetal heart rate, labour duration, Apgar scores and maternal satisfaction. The sample size is estimated based on the between-group difference of 0.6 in anxiety scores, 95% power and 5% α error, which yields a required sample size of 154 (77 in each group) accounting for a 20% attrition rate. The between-group and within-group outcome measures will be examined with mixed-effect regression models, time series analyses and paired t-test or equivalent non-parametric tests, respectively.
Ethics and dissemination
Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects of the Ministry of Health in the Saudi Arabia (H-02-K-076-0319-109) on 14 April 2019, and from the Ethics Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects (JKEUPM) Universiti Putra Malaysia on 23 October 2019, reference number: JKEUPM-2019–169. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Results from this trial will be presented at regional, national and international conferences and published in indexed journals.
Trial registration number
ISRCTN87414969 , registered 3 May 2019.
... This therapy uses pressure and stimulation on various reflex zones, for example in feet and hands, to cause reactions in other parts of the body. This stimulation can lead to positive reactions in the correlating body part, by improving the blood and energy flow and causing a sense of relaxation and pain relief (18,19). The effect of reflexology treatment might be explained by peripheral vasodilation following the removal of local toxin accumulation (18). ...
... This stimulation can lead to positive reactions in the correlating body part, by improving the blood and energy flow and causing a sense of relaxation and pain relief (18,19). The effect of reflexology treatment might be explained by peripheral vasodilation following the removal of local toxin accumulation (18). Reflexology has a long history, and nowadays, there are several ways to administer reflexology; some therapists treat only feet and some the whole body, making it difficult to compare and evaluate the outcomes of studies of reflexology (19). ...
Background:
Many infants under 4 months suffer from infantile colic. Infants with colic cry a lot, appear to be in pain, and it is difficult to sooth them. Colic is a painful condition for the infant and very stressful to parents. Parents in Finland get advice to try reflexology treatment for their infant, but there are no studies in Finland to support this advice.
Aim:
The aim of the pilot study was to treat infants with reflexology and find out parents' experiences of the effects of the treatment on colic symptoms and parental stress.
Method:
A total of 33 parents of 35 infants diagnosed with colic participated to the pilot study. Three certified reflexologists with health care education background and extensive experience in infant reflexology were trained to give the reflexology treatment in a standardised manner. They treated each infant 3-4 times. The whole body reflexology treatment session consisted of gentle pressure treatment of soles and feet, hands, head, face, ears, back, neck and whole stomach area. One treatment session lasted about 20-30 seconds, and treatments were delivered within 8-12 days. The data were collected from the parents with semi-structured questionnaires.
Results:
The series of the treatments helped reduce the suffering of all the babies with infant colic. The colic symptoms disappeared on 43% of infants and decreased on the remaining 57%. The parents reported having pleasant experiences with the treatment, regardless whether the colic symptoms disappeared or continued. Parents stated that the treatment reduced the most typical colic symptoms; infants' body tension, colic crying and restless movements, poor sleep quality and irregular bowel movements.
Conclusions:
Reflexology treatment seems to be a safe and effective way to treat infants with colic when conducted by a health care professional with reflexology training and experience.
... (10)(11)(12)(13) Reflex areas are the representative of different body organs that can be stimulated through neural pathways or hormone-like activities. (14) The pressure applied in the reflexology massage intervention breaks down calcium crystals and uric acid in nerve pathways and causes psychological responses. (15,16) The effects of reflexology massage as a safe and non-invasive nursing intervention have been studied in different clinical situations. ...
... (29) A cutoff score greater than 8 for the diagnosis of either anxiety or depression has been suggested. (30) The quantitative score of both subscales ranged from 0 to 21 under the categorization of normal (0-7), borderline (8)(9)(10), and abnormal (11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21). A higher score indicated a higher level of anxiety or depression. ...
Background: Patients with cardiovascular diseases usually suffer from hospital anxiety and depression. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of foot reflexology massage on anxiety and depression in female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome. Participants: Ninety older women with acute coronary syndrome were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups (n=45 in each group). Research Design: A randomized controlled trial. Intervention: The intervention and control groups received foot reflexology massage and routine care, respectively. Main Outcomes Measures: The levels of anxiety and depression were evaluated using the hospital's anxiety and depression scale (HADS) before and immediately after foot reflexology massage. Results: Foot reflexology massage reduced both anxiety (F(1.44)=19.11, p = .001) and depression (F(1.44)=16.76, p = .001) in acute coronary patients relative to control patients. The intervention had a large effect on hospital anxiety and depression. Conclusions: Foot reflexology massage is an efficient and safe intervention for alleviating psychological responses among female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome during hospitalization.
... (10)(11)(12)(13) Reflex areas are the representative of different body organs that can be stimulated through neural pathways or hormone-like activities. (14) The pressure applied in the reflexology massage intervention breaks down calcium crystals and uric acid in nerve pathways and causes psychological responses. (15,16) The effects of reflexology massage as a safe and non-invasive nursing intervention have been studied in different clinical situations. ...
... (29) A cutoff score greater than 8 for the diagnosis of either anxiety or depression has been suggested. (30) The quantitative score of both subscales ranged from 0 to 21 under the categorization of normal (0-7), borderline (8)(9)(10), and abnormal (11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21). A higher score indicated a higher level of anxiety or depression. ...
... (10)(11)(12)(13) Reflex areas are the representative of different body organs that can be stimulated through neural pathways or hormone-like activities. (14) The pressure applied in the reflexology massage intervention breaks down calcium crystals and uric acid in nerve pathways and causes psychological responses. (15,16) The effects of reflexology massage as a safe and non-invasive nursing intervention have been studied in different clinical situations. ...
... (29) A cutoff score greater than 8 for the diagnosis of either anxiety or depression has been suggested. (30) The quantitative score of both subscales ranged from 0 to 21 under the categorization of normal (0-7), borderline (8)(9)(10), and abnormal (11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21). A higher score indicated a higher level of anxiety or depression. ...
Background:
Patients with cardiovascular diseases usually suffer from hospital anxiety and depression.
Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the effect of foot reflexology massage on anxiety and depression in female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome.
Participants:
Ninety older women with acute coronary syndrome were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups (n=45 in each group).
Research design:
A randomized controlled trial.
Intervention:
The intervention and control groups received foot reflexology massage and routine care, respectively.
Main outcomes measures:
The levels of anxiety and depression were evaluated using the hospital's anxiety and depression scale (HADS) before and immediately after foot reflexology massage.
Results:
Foot reflexology massage reduced both anxiety (F(1.44)=19.11, p = .001) and depression (F(1.44)=16.76, p = .001) in acute coronary patients relative to control patients. The intervention had a large effect on hospital anxiety and depression.
Conclusions:
Foot reflexology massage is an efficient and safe intervention for alleviating psychological responses among female older adults suffering from acute coronary syndrome during hospitalization.
... Substancje te między innymi mają udział w regulacji pracy serca, wspomagają działanie hormonów. Endorfiny przyczyniają się także do zmniejszenia odczuwania bólu, pomagają kontrolować napięcie mięśniowe oraz nastrój i emocje [10]. Wpływ refleksologii zaznacza się także w lepszym krążeniu krwi i limfy [11]. ...
... These substances contribute to the proper functioning of the heart and assist proper hormonal activity. Moreover, endorphins help reduce pain and control muscle tension as well as mood and emotions [10]. The impact of reflexology is also reflected in improved blood and lymph circulation [11]. ...
Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint disorders and affects a significant percentage of the elderly. Reflexology is a therapeutic method of applying appropriate compression technique to pressure points located, for instance, on feet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of foot reflexology treatment on pain and vitality level in persons with osteoarthritis. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on a group 20 individuals (16 women and 4 men) aged 41-76, who suffered from osteoarthritis. Two questionnaires (surveys), i.e. the NRS scale and the WOMAC questionnaire, were the research tools applied in the study. The study was conducted prior to the therapy and after a series of 8 sessions. Results: After the treatment, the researchers observed an improvement in average results obtained in the WOMAC questionnaire. Moreover, the respondents reported a reduction in pain intensity and improvement in functionality. The applied treatment effectively reduced the intake of pain medications by the surveyed individuals (p = 0.006). The respondents also reported improvement in the quality of sleep. Conclusions: According to the individuals surveyed, reflexology is an effective analgesic method, as a notable reduction in pain severity was observed. Reflexology increases the activity of patients and reduces the intake of pain medications.
... Günümüzde ABD başta olmak üzere İngiltere, Belçika ve Fransa gibi Avrupa ülkelerinde okullar açılmış ve refleksoloji birçok alanda tamamlayıcı ve alternatif tedavi yöntemi olarak kullanılmaktadır (Botting 1997). Son yıllarda ebelik ve hemşirelik meslekleri arasında oldukça popüler bir hale gelmiştir (Wilkinson 2002, Mollart 2003, Tiran and Chummun 2005, Wang ve ark. 2008. ...
... Refleksologlar, genellikle kolay ulaşılabilir, daha duyarlı ve daha büyük olmasından dolayı ayaklar üzerinde çalışmayı tercih ederler (Botting 1997). Fakat ayak masajı ile refleksoloji arasında kesin bir fark bulunmaktadır (Botting 1997, Tiran andChummun 2005). Kullanılan başparmak ve parmak tekniği masajdan farklıdır ve solucan gidişine benzeyen bir hareketi andırır (Botting 1997, Wilhelm 2006, Wang ve ark. ...
... [3,4] At the same time, reflexology determines areal decongestion, increase of the cell membranes' permeability, with an increased local influx of nutrients, relief of toxic substances from the organism, neurovegetative rebalance, improvement of metabolism and reconstruction of the organism's defence potential. [5,6] One of the frequent use of reflexology is the chronic low back pain, a major health problem of contemporary society. Chronic low back pain is defined as an unsolved episode of back pain which has been lasting for over 12 weeks. ...
... The mechanism by which reflexology acts on some [4,5] A current theory is that of electromagnetism, which is based on the assumption that our biological rhythms depend on the interaction of the electrical brain waves with the Earth's electromagnetic field. ...
Reflexology is based on the digital pressure on certain reflex points situated on the sole of the foot, which represents a “map” of the entire body. The aim of this paper is to highlight the importance of reflexology in low back pain treatment. To accomplish the objectives of this paper, a lot of 12 patients, of both genders, with low back pain, was formed. Out of these patients, 66.67% were male and 33.33% were female, the majority coming from an urban area (75%). The average age ± the standard deviation of the patients was 43.58±13.02 years. The group of patients was subdivided into an experimental group, composed of 7 patients (58.33%), who, besides the classic drug treatment, also underwent reflexology, and a control group, composed of 5 patients (41.67%), who underwent only drug treatment. The treatment linked to reflexology was conducted by a single practitioner of reflexology, using the Morrell technique. Both in the case of the experimental group and in the control one there was a statistically significant reduction in finger to ground index (p < 0.01, respectively p< 0.05). Also, there was a highly statistically significant reduction of pain (p
... The feet, hands and ears are a mini map and a mirror of the body, and all organs and glands are associated with reflective points in these areas. Applied pressure to these areas provides relief and healing to the corresponding part of the body 87,88 . There is evidence that some form of reflexology was practiced in Egypt around 2000 BC. ...
Complementary and alternative therapies (CAM) are methods for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases based on various cultural beliefs and experiences that are not currently considered part of modern medicine. In recent years, the integration of CAM applications into healthcare systems all over the world has led to an increase in their use and frequency, and it has also increased the necessity and expectation of evidence-based practices. In this review, it was aimed to examine the alternative treatment methods that are frequently used in different conditions, their mechanisms of action, and their application within the framework of scientific evidence. For this purpose, popularly used complementary and alternative therapies for musculoskeletal conditions (dry needling, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, dry cupping), neurological conditions (acupuncture, reflexology), and other conditions such as cancer and metabolic diseases (yoga) were examined.
... 14 RZT depends on the hypothesis that signs and symptoms of illness related to one dermatome may be reflected in changes in neighbouring dermatomes. 15 When the diseased organ sends a signal to the skin through the autonomic nerves, the skin responds by becoming tender and painful with swelling. Skin receptors are activated when cups are applied to the skin. ...
Although practiced initially for the alleviation of pain, cupping therapy (Hijama in Arabic) has been used for a variety of medical conditions, including autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, with variable outcomes. In recent years, scientific research on the effectiveness of cupping in the treatment of various diseases has accelerated. Relevant literature to identify the types of cupping along with its association with certain rheumatic conditions was screened through a search of the online databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, and Google Scholar) for an indefinite period. Many reports have drawn serious rheumatic side effects which led medical providers to raise the voice against its practice. Moreover, the rare induction of rheumatic conditions has been partly referred to the immunomodulatory effect that cupping exerts in the body. Cupping therapy still needs more evidence to be labelled as therapeutic procedure for rheumatic conditions. Many studies agree that cupping works best when used in combination to pharmacotherapy. Other studies find no clinically significant beneficial role.
... The benefits of reflexology include its capability to stimulate nerve function, increase energy, boost circulation, and induce a deep state of relaxation (37)(38)(39)(40)(41)(42)(43)(44). Furthermore, it helps stimulate the central nervous system and avoid migraines (45)(46)(47)(48)(49)(50). ...
Aim: this study was conducted to review the related articles and draw a final conclusion regarding the application of reflexology for delivery (labor and cesarean section) pain management in woman all over the world.
Methodology: In this systematic review, relevant articles were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Scopus databases from the year 2000 to 2018. All the human clinical trials that examined the effects of reflexology methods on delivery pain (labor or Cesarean section) were included and others excluded from the study.
Results: All the 18 included original articles (with 1391 patients) reported that reflexology significantly reduces the pain of delivery, confirming its decreasing effect on labor, Cesarean section, and post-delivery pain. Results of all articles showed that, if true reflexology is performed on the right location of the body and at the appropriate time, the pain of delivery can be significantly decreased
Conclusion: Reflexology is an appropriate pain relief and prophylaxis for any kind of pain, especially delivery and post-delivery pain. It is a safe remedy with no adverse effects reported so far.
... e effects are well known to relieve the psychological symptoms of stress by reducing anxiety and muscle tension [6], calming our mood [7], improving the quality of sleep [8], and facilitating the feeling of well-being [9]. Pharmacological treatment of prevalent symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance may contribute to the high strain on the body, creating additional side effects [10]. ...
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review, meta-analysis, and metaregression to determine the current best available evidence of the efficacy and safety of foot reflexology for adult depression, anxiety, and sleep quality.
Methods:
Electronic databases (PubMed, ClinicalKey, ScienceDirect, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library) were searched till August, 10, 2020, and the validity of the eligible studies was critically appraised. Randomized controlled trials comparing foot reflexology groups with control groups for adult depression, anxiety, and sleep quality were included. Twenty-six eligible studies were included to assess the effect of foot reflexology intervention on the reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and improving quality of sleep, respectively, as the primary outcome.
Results:
Twenty-six randomized controlled trials involving 2,366 participants met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analyses showed that foot reflexology intervention significantly improved adult depression (Hedges' g = -0.921; 95% CI: -1.246 to -0.595; P < 0.001), anxiety (Hedges' g = -1.237; 95% CI -1.682 to -0.791; P < 0.001), and sleep quality (Hedges' g = -1.665; 95% CI -2.361 to -0.970; P < 0.001). Metaregression reveals that an increase in total foot reflexology time (P = 0.002) and duration (P = 0.01) can significantly improve sleep quality.
Conclusions:
Foot reflexology may provide additional nonpharmacotherapy intervention for adults suffering from depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbance. However, high quality and rigorous design RCTs in specific population, along with an increase in participants, and a long-term follow-up are recommended in the future.
... Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that images of the whole body are found in each organ or region of the body. Systems of complementary medicine in the west term these phenomena 'Reflexology', and use them in systems of diagnosis and massage etc. [13]. The phenomenon of fingertip diagnosis in EPI is an example of reflexological diagnosis applied to the fingertips, using Pranic Energy Fields, which are the media through which reflexological maps arise. ...
Objective: Positive influence of Yajna (fire ceremony) on human physiological, psychological and spiritual well-being and environment is mentioned in ancient Indian literature. The purpose of this study is to explore how Bhaishajya Maha Yajna influences the human energy field measured with Electro Photonic Imaging (EPI) technique to follow the response at individual level and also to observe the pollution level in the environment before and after. Methods: Electro Photonic Imaging method was used to assess the subjects. The subjects were from Kerala practicing a special type of Yoga lead by an expert, some of whom were actively involved and others just observing Yajna. Bhaishajya Maha Yajna was performed in outskirts of Bangalore, continuously for 81 hours during two consecutive years 2013 and 2014. The participants were assessed three times; at fixed intervals of 27 hours from the base reading. After getting informed consent from the participants, 29 and 21 were the sample size respectively in the two years. EPI Measurements were made on all ten fingertips of subjects, the patterns of light emitted from the subjects' fingertips were digitally recorded and computer analyzed. Parameters including Area, Average Intensity and Entropy were calculated and statistically compared between three measurements. SPSS version 18.0 was used for the analysis. Pollution level was measured using Enviro-Tech, a standard environmental test equipment to observe the level of SO2, NO2 and RSPM. Results: Two times observations showed statistically significant positive changes in both years. Among three parameters Entropy was maintained constantly at a fixed level, while others (Area and Average Intensity) showed statistically significant changes in both years. In general, the changes between first and second measurements showed greater alterations than between second and third reading in EPI parameters. Forty three percent of reduction in Sulphur Dioxide was observed in the environment. Conclusions: Attending this Yajna influenced EPI parameters of finger emission patters significantly and thus supported the objective of the study. EPI seems to be an appropriate tool to measure subtle energy filed. Yajna can be one of the practices to invoke the potentials of human internal energy. The performance of Yajna helps in cleansing the environment of certain pollutants.
... Endorfinler nöronlar arası sinaptik mesafede impuls iletimini sağlayan transmitter maddeler gurubundandır (49). İlaveten, ağrı kesici etki özel refleks noktalarına yapılan masajın kapı kontrol mekanizmasını çalıştırması ile elde edilmiş olabilir (48). Benzer etki mekanizmalarıyla çalışan, akupunktur, akupresür ve TENS'le yapılmış araştırmalarda da dismenore ve premenstrüel ağrıların azaltılmasında başarılı sonuçlar elde edilmiştir (41,42,44,50-54). ...
Amaç: Araştırmada perimenstrüel distresi hafifletmede refleksolojinin etkisininin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır.Yöntem: Randomize kontrollü deneysel bir araştırmadır. Araştırma evrenini, 585 genç kadın oluşturmuştur. Perimenstrüel distres puanı yüksek olan 94 katılımcıdan tesadüfi örnekleme yöntemi ile 47 kişilik iki grup oluşturulmuştur. Değişik nedenlerden dolayı çalışma dışı kalanlar olmuştur. Araştırmanın refleksoloji grubu 31 kişi, rutin tedavi grubu (NSAID Tedavisi) 33 kişi ile tamamlanmıştır. Her iki gruba da araştırmacı tarafından perimenstrüel distresi hafifletmeye yönelik hemşirelik eğitimi verilmiştir. Katılımcılar, iki siklus refleksoloji öncesi, iki siklus refleksoloji süresince ve iki siklus refleksoloji sonrasında olmak üzere altı siklus izlenmiştir. Araştırmacı tarafından iki siklus süresince (sekiz seans), haftada bir defa, yarım saat süre ile kulaklara, ellere ve ayaklara refleksoloji uygulanmıştır. Veri toplama aracı olarak; Birey Tanıtım Formu, Birey İzlem Formu” ve “Menstrüel Distres Şikâyet Listesi (MDQ)” kullanılmıştır. Bulgular: Uygulanan refleksoloji sonucu, menstrüel dönem semptomlarında %46.54, premenstrüel dönem semptomlarında %44.99 azalma olmuştur. Refleksoloji uygulanan birinci siklusta; menstrüel ve premenstrüel dönemlerde refleksoloji grubu ile rutin tedavi grubunun puan ortalamaları açısından istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir fark bulunmazken (p=0.33,0.35), ikinci siklusta menstrüel ve premenstrüel dönemlerde refleksoloji grubunun puanlarının rutin tedavi grubundan daha düşük olduğu ve bunun istatistiksel olarak anlamlı olduğu bulunmuştur (p=0.02, 0.01). Refleksoloji bırakıldıktan sonra da anlamlı fark devam etmiştir.Sonuç: Perimenstrüel yakınmaları olan genç kadınlar için refleksoloji uygulaması semptomların şiddetini azaltıcı tamamlayıcı bir tedavi olarak önerilebilir.
... In other words, the legs represent and represent a map of the whole body. These reflections can be found on the soles of the feet, fingers, and along the inner and outer sides of the foot (Tiran and Chummun, 2005). Reflexology during pregnancy is used to treat a variety of physiological problems such as nausea and vomiting, constipation, pregnancy, fatigue, headache and breastfeeding. ...
... If the large-fiber steady background activity is artificially raised at this time by vibration or scratching (a maneuver that overcomes the tendency of the large fibers to adapt), the output of the cells decreases. 68 Cupping therapy may alleviate pain by means of antinociceptive effects and by counter irritation. However, at present, it is unclear to what extent cupping induces such mechanisms. ...
Cupping Therapy (CT) is an ancient method and currently used in the treatment of a broad range of medical conditions. Nonetheless the mechanism of action of (CT) is not fully understood. This review aimed to identify possible mechanisms of action of (CT) from modern medicine perspective and offer possible explanations of its effects. English literature in PubMed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar was searched using key words. Only 223 articles identified, 149 records screened, and 74 articles excluded for irrelevancy. Only 75 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, included studies in this review were 64. Six theories have been suggested to explain the effects produced by cupping therapy. Pain reduction and changes in biomechanical properties of the skin could be explained by “Pain-Gate Theory” “Diffuse Noxious Inhibitory Controls” and “Reflex zone theory”. Muscle relaxation, changes in local tissue structures and increase in blood circulation might be explained by “Nitric Oxide theory”. Immunological effects and hormonal adjustments might be attributed to “Activation of immune system theory”. Releasing of toxins and removal of wastes and heavy metals might be explained by “Blood Detoxification Theory”. These theories may overlap or work interchangeably to produce various therapeutic effects in specific ailments and diseases. Apparently, no single theory exists to explain the whole effects of cupping. Further researches are needed to support or refute the aforesaid theories, and also develop innovative conceptualizations of (CT) in future. © 2018 Center for Food and Biomolecules, National Taiwan University
... Logo, a pressão adequada nestes pontos, atingirá reflexamente os órgãos correspondentes, provocando mudanças fisiológicas no corpo, movimentando ou acelerando a capacidade natural de reequilíbrio do organismo humano em busca da homeostasia e consequentemente à correção de distúrbios físicos ou emocionais. [21][22] A reflexologia podal tem mostrado resultados positivos no controle da insônia, mas os estudos ainda são escassos e necessitam melhores delineamentos. 23 Desta maneira, devido às alterações na saúde física e mental causadas pela insônia, algumas limitações do tratamento convencional e o interesse da população nas terapias complementares, o presente estudo teve o objetivo de verificar os efeitos da reflexologia podal, em voluntárias apresentando alterações do sono. ...
O sono é o resultado de um mecanismo complexo, envolvendo a ação conjunta de várias áreas do sistema nervoso. O ciclo sono-vigília é essencial para restaurar as funções orgânicas. Na sociedade moderna, as atividades diárias produtoras de estresse podem levar ao desenvolvimento da insônia. A insônia é definida pela dificuldade de iniciar e ou manter o sono, presença de sono não reparador, de quantidade inadequada ou de qualidade insatisfatória, durante um período não inferior a um mês. A insônia primária está associada ao alto nível de alerta fisiológico e psicológico durante a noite e condicionamento negativo para dormir. O tratamento inclui terapias farmacológicas e não farmacológicas, entre estas, encontra-se a reflexologia podal, uma técnica de massoterapia que, através de pressões em diferentes regiões dos pés, atinge reflexamente os órgãos correspondentes, revitalizando-os e reequilibrando o organismo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar os efeitos da técnica de reflexologia podal na qualidade do sono, na orma de estudo de caso, em três voluntárias que receberam entre seis a oito sessões da técnica completa, por 30 minutos, semanalmente. Foi utilizado como instrumento de avaliação o Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh (IQSP) imediatamente antes e após a realização das sessões. Os resultados mostraram um efeito positivo na melhora da qualidade do sono em duas voluntárias, demonstrando que esta técnica de massagem pode ser um promissor recurso complementar à abordagem biomédica. Estudos devem ser realizados para um maior entendimento a respeito de seu mecanismo de ação e padronização dos resultados.
... The explanation for the effect mechanisms of reflexology is based on various theories. These theories include the gate control theory, the neural impulse theory, the lactic acid theory and the endorphins theory [29,32]. The purpose of all of these theories is to balance the energy in the body. ...
... The generated impulses arrive the target body parts through neural pathways or hormone-like activities. These impulses are thought to improve the corresponding abnormally functioning status [41]. ...
Objective: Adhesive capsulitis is common in Type 2 diabetic patients. The painful nature of adhesive capsulitis and the lack of effective therapy for improving motion and diminishing pain demonstrate the demand for a new effective therapeutic intervention. The current study aimed to determine the efficacies of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and reflexology for improving range of motion (ROM) in diabetic patients with adhesive capsulitis.
Methods: Totally, 40 volunteer patients of both sexes with proven Type 2 diabetes and adhesive capsulitis were included in the current study. The patients were divided into two groups each comprising 20 patients as follows; Group I (LLLT): Patients received LLLT for 15 minutes and Group II (Reflexology): Patients received reflexology in the form of thumb walk for 15 minutes. Therapy was applied 3 times/week for 8 weeks with concurrent 15 minutes exercise.
Results: Patients received LLLT showed a significant increase in ROM of abduction, internal rotation, flexion, and external rotation at the end of 4 and 8 weeks. Reflexology induced a significant improvement in shoulder ROM at 8 weeks posttreatment, however, its effect on internal rotation ROM was nonsignificant at the end of 4 weeks period. Conclusion: LLLT and reflexology significantly improved ROM and reduced pain severity in diabetic patients with adhesive capsulitis; LLLT seemed to be more effective. Thus, both therapies may be recommended in the treatment of frozen shoulder, pending further investigations to trace out their exact efficacies.
... The exact mechanism of action of reflexology has yet to be confirmed; however, various theories have been proposed and Tiran and Chummun [20] have detailed many of the current theories in their paper. One of the earliest is the haemodynamic theory which suggests that reflexology stimulation enhances blood flow to the corresponding organ or body part [21]. ...
Background: Reflexology is one of the top forms of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the UK and is used for healthcare by a diverse range of people. However, it is offered by few healthcare providers as little scientific evidence is available explaining how it works or any health benefits it may confer. The aim of this review was to assess the current evidence available from reflexology randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that have investigated changes in physiological or biochemical outcomes. Methods: Guidelines from the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Interventions were followed: the following databases were searched from inception-December 2013: AMED, CAM Quest, CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Medline Ovid, Proquest and Pubmed. Risk of bias was assessed independently by two members of the review team and overall strength of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation guidelines. Results: Seventeen eligible RCT’s met all inclusion criteria. A total of 34 objective outcome measures were analysed. Although twelve studies showed significant changes within the reflexology group, only three studies investigating blood pressure, cardiac index and salivary amylase resulted in significant between group changes in favour of reflexology. The overall quality of the studies was low.
Keywords: Biochemistry, physiology, reflexology, systematic review.
... With its known beneficial effects on the improvement of the quality of life in cancer patients [13], reduction in pain and anxiety for patients with breast and lung cancer [14] and premenstrual syndrome [15,16], reduction in seizure frequency, and improvement of the quality of life in intractable epilepsy [17], this clinical trial was launched to determine the efficacy of reflexology in the patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy. The hypothesis of reflexology is that the skin areas of feet/hands/ears are the representative of the target body parts and impulses generated on the reflexology areas by the external stimulations of definite intensities arrive at the target body parts through the neural pathways or through hormone-like activities [18]. These impulses are supposed to rectify the corresponding abnormally functioning status of the referred ones, if there is any. ...
Background. The restricted usage of existing pharmacological methods which do not seem to provide the treatment of diabetic neuropathy may lead to exploring the efficacy of a complementary therapy. In this context, this paper was devoted to evaluate the efficacy of foot reflexology. This health science works on the hypothesis that the dysfunctional states of body parts could be identified by observing certain skin features and be rectified by stimulating certain specific areas mapped on feet. Method. Subjects (N = 58) with diagnosed diabetic neuropathy were randomly distributed into reflexology and control groups in which both group patients were treated with ongoing pharmacological drugs. Reflexology group patients were additionally treated holistically with the hypothesis that this therapy would bring homeostasis among body organ functions. This was a caregiver-based study with a follow-up period of 6 months. The outcome measures were pain reduction, glycemic control, nerve conductivity, and thermal and vibration sensitivities. The skin features leading to the detection of the abnormal functional states of body parts were also recorded and analyzed. Results. Reflexology group showed more improvements in all outcome measures than those of control subjects with statistical significance. Conclusion. This study exhibited the efficient utility of reflexology therapy integrated with conventional medicines in managing diabetic neuropathy.
Introduction
Suctioning procedures in neonates under nasal CPAP and the use of reflexology as a non-invasive method are inevitable. Accordingly, this study aims to determine the effect of foot reflexology before suctioning on pain and SPO2 in neonates under nasal CPAP, who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Methods
This quasi-experimental crossover study was conducted among 40 neonates under nasal CPAP, who were admitted to the NICU of Ali Ibn Abitaleb Hospital in Rafsanjan, Southeastern Iran. The neonates were divided into one of two groups (A and B), according to the inclusion criteria. Neonates in group A received foot reflexology for 3 min during the first suctioning. The second round of suctioning was performed without the reflexology intervention in this group. In group B, the order of applying reflexology was opposite to that in the group A. Before and after suctioning, SPO2 was recorded as shown by the monitor. During the suctioning procedure, pain was assessed using the NIPS tool. In addition, data were analyzed using SPSS Software.
Results
Based on the results, the mean score of pain was lower in the two groups after suctioning with reflexology (the paired t-test, p < 0.05). Although suctioning improved SPO2, reflexology had no effect on this indicator (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
Reflexology before suctioning is effective in reducing pain in neonates. Additional studies are recommended on changing the time and duration of reflexology and examining the effects.
Background
Reflexology is a non-invasive, inexpensive, and simple technique that can be employed for pregnant women.
Objective
This study aimed to determine the effects of reflexology on anxiety during labor (primary outcome) and its side effects (secondary outcome).
Methods
In this systematic review, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, Science Direct, and ProQuest databases were searched systematically and without time constraints until 20 April 2021. The quality of the selected articles was assessed using Cochrane Handbook and the meta-analysis was performed utilizing RevMan 5.3. Heterogeneity was evaluated by the I2 statistic and, as there was heterogeneity between the studies, subgroup analysis was carried out based on the control group. Since the anxiety assessment tools in the included studies were identical, the mean difference (MD) was reported. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.
Results
Six studies that included 643 pregnant women were investigated in this systematic review. The results of the meta-analysis using five of the studies revealed that reflexology significantly lowered the mean scores for maternal anxiety compared to routine care or simple massage (MD: -11.34; 95% CI: -16.28 to -6.40). None of the studies reported any specific side effects after reflexology treatment.
Conclusion
Reflexology can decrease maternal anxiety during labor. However, given the small number of studies and the high or unclear bias risk in most of them, no definitive conclusions can be drawn and it is recommended that further research with stronger methodologies be conducted on this subject.
Background and objectives: Reflexology is a form of massage that is associated with applying pressure on reflexive points of the feet. It is believed that these points are connected with all parts of the body. The pressure on reflexive Points can affect the body's physiological responses. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of studies conducted in Iran in the field of reflexology on various systems of the body. Material and Methods: This is a systematic review on studies carried out in Iran in the field of reflexology in various conditions. To access the studies, the search was done by following keywords in PubMed, Google Scholar and SID databases: reflexology massage and reflexology, foot reflexology. Results: Among the total of 46 published studies which were reviewed, 11 were in English and 35 in Persian language. In these studies, variables such as fatigue, sleepiness, constipation, and length of labor, vomiting after chemotherapy, anxiety, physiological symptoms of PMS, back pain and agitation were examined. The most studies had been conducted on pain (20 cases) and the highest number of study population belonged to women (30 studies). Conclusion: The results of this study showed the positive effect of reflexology on various diseases and disorders. Although reflexology cannot be used as a replacement treatment but it can be concluded that it is an alternative treatment and relaxing and rewarding experience. It is suggested that future studies are conducted with more accurate sampling method, larger sample size and following the principles of CONSORT.
Introduction
Neonatal jaundice is considered as the most common reason for newborns’ admission and methods for the prevention of this condition are therefore important. This randomized sham-controlled trial aimed to evaluate whether foot reflexology could affect levels of cutaneous bilirubin and reduce neonatal jaundice.
Methods
In this single-blind trial, sixty eligible neonates were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Neonates in the foot reflexology group received genuine foot reflexology, while neonates in the sham reflexology group received sham reflexology, administered in four 30-min sessions on the first day of life. The neonates in the control group only received routine neonatal care services. Cutaneous bilirubin level, dermal icterus, and need for phototherapy were assessed at baseline, the first, third and fifth day post-baseline measurements. Data were analyzed by chi-square, analysis of variance, and post hoc tests.
Results
Despite the increase of cutaneous bilirubin levels after birth in three groups, it was significantly lower in the foot reflexology group than other two groups on the first and third days but not on the fifth day (P < 0.001, P = 0.003, and P = 0.07, respectively). Dermal icterus did not differ between the three groups at any of the measurement time points (P > 0.05). A significant reduction was observed in the need for phototherapy in the foot reflexology group compared with the sham reflexology and control groups (P = 0.04).
Conclusions
Foot reflexology seems to be a potentially beneficial complement for preventing or reducing jaundice without any serious side effects. Nevertheless, larger well powered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to confirm these findings.
Introduction: Reflexology is a non-pharmacological pain relief method, the effects of which remain unclear on obstetric interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of reflexology on the length of labor.
Methods: A literature search was performed in databases such as Cochrane, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid, Google Scholar, SID, MagIran, IranMedex, and Irandoc using various keywords, including foot massage, childbirth, delivery, natural delivery, vaginal delivery, length of labor, length of delivery, massage therapy, reflexology, labor, labour, randomized clinical trial, and reflex, as well as all the possible combinations. All the clinical trials published during 2000-June 2017 were reviewed in the study. The Jadad scale was used to assess the quality of the retrieved articles.
Results: Out of 616 articles (Persian and English) and after removing the repetitive and irrelevant contents, six clinical trials were assessed in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The selected studies were conducted in Iran and Egypt. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that reflexology has a positive effect on reducing the length of the first stage of labor (RR: -0.67; 95% CI: -1.09--0.25; df =3; P=0.02). However, it exerts no effects on the length of the second stage (RR: -3.77; 95% CI: -8.18-0.64; df =2; P=0.22) and third stage of labor (RR: -1.94; 95% CI: -3.47--0.41; df=2; P=0.09).
Conclusion: According to the results, reflexology could reduce the length of the first stage of labor, while further investigation on adequate sample sizes is required to evaluate its effects on the second and third stage of labor.
Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the radiation dose in present Onco protocol and low dose protocol for head and neck and pelvic phantom in radiotherapy planning computed tomography and to establish diagnostic reference level. Objective: We conducted a following study to compare the radiation dose in standard protocol and the scan with different set of parameters. Methodology: A experimental phantom study was performed in CATPHAN 503 measuring 20cm to investigate the optimization of radiation dose for CT head and neck and pelvis by using different parameters available in CT control console. Result: The result showed significant change in radiation dose in terms of CTDIvol, DLP and effective with different combination of kVp and mAs without compromising image quality. © 2019, Indian Journal of Public Health Research and Development. All rights reserved.
Aim: To establish Diagnostic Reference Levels and optimization of radiation dose of head and neck and pelvic imaging in pre Radiation therapy planning computed tomography (RTCT). Objective: To establish Diagnostic reference level for Head & Neck CT and Pelvic Computed Tomography in radiation therapy planning and to optimize radiation dose to the cancer patients undergoing Head & Neck and Pelvic Computed Tomography scans. Methodology: This study will be divided into two phases. In phase one, Diagnostic reference Level will be established using standard CT Oncology protocol and arriving optimized protocol using phantom. In phase two, optimized protocol will be tested on patient population and image quality will be analyzed subjectively and objectively. Outcome: Expected outcome would be to establish diagnostic reference level for optimized radiation dose protocol and Reduction in radiation dose in optimized dose protocol in comparison with existing dose protocol for CT Head & Neck and pelvis without compromising image quality. © 2019, Indian Journal of Public Health Research and Development. All rights reserved.
Introduction: Although labor pain is a part of labor progression, but uncontrolled pain can be dangerous for both mother and fetus. Reflexology has been reported in some studies as one of the non-pharmacological methods of labor pain relief, but the results of these studies have been contradictory. Therefore, this systematic review was performed with aim to investigate the effects of reflexology on the severity of labor pain.
Methods: In this review study, to access relevant articles, the English databases of Google Scholar, Scopus, Pubmed, and Science Direct were searched using the key words of "Pain", "Labor pain", "Reflexology" and "Foot Reflexology", as well as Persian databases including Magiran, SID, and Google Scholar with equal Persian keywords. Also, search was done as a combination of keywords using Bullins from inspection until May 2019. The quality assessment of the included studies was done using of the CONSORT 2017 checklist.
Results: Of the 336 studies found from the databases, 7 studies with inclusion criteria were included. The results of the studies showed that foot reflexology during labor reduce the severity of labor pain.
Conclusion: Foot reflexology during labor can be effective in reducing the severity of labor pain. Therefore, it is suggested that this low-cost and easy method be used to reduce labor pain.
Background
Several studies have shown the effectiveness of reflexology in different health problems as well as obtaining a high degree of relaxation during its application. A previous study suggested a possible relation between the relaxation obtained during the reflexology session and the sleep. However, the design of the study did not provide evidence for this hypothesis. In this study, we use a polysomnogram to investigate the effects during its application.
Method
Prospective experimental study conducted in a sleep laboratory. Twelve healthy adults were enrolled. Two groups were created based on whether or not they had knowledge of reflexology. Reflexology was applied for 35 min and their sleep effects were measured by means of polysomnography. A descriptive and bivariate analysis was performed. A bivariate analysis conducted through chi-square test or ANOVA was considered appropriate.
Results
After controlling for baseline data, nine of the participants did move toward N1 (p = 0.833) and N2 (p = 0.227) stages, remaining in these states between 4 min and 25.5 min. No significant differences were found between the two groups.
Conclusions
The application of reflexology induces changes in the activity of brain waves in correspondence with the appearance of a high degree of sleepiness and sleep (N1 and N2 NREM sleep). There is a gradual transition and an orderly progression from wakefulness to sleep, which could explain the effects of relaxation and well being obtained with this method, as well as many other benefits.
Reflexology in Pregnancy and Childbirth is a definitive text on the safe and appropriate use of reflex zone therapy in pregnancy, labour and the puerperium, focusing on evidence-based practice, professional accountability and application of a comprehensive knowledge of the therapy related to reproductive physiology. Denise Tiran, an experienced midwife, reflex zone therapist, university lecturer and Director of Expectancy - the Expectant Parents' Complementary Therapies Consultancy - has an international reputation in the field of maternity complementary therapies, has researched and written extensively on reflexology, and has treated nearly 5000 pregnant women with structural reflex zone therapy. KEY FEATURES Case histories to ease application of theory to practice Charts, tables and diagrams are used throughout for ease of learning Includes a section on conception, infertility and sub-fertility Covers legalities and ethical issues.
This randomized controlled clinical study aimed to determine the effect of 2 foot massage methods on symptom control in people with colorectal cancer who received chemoradiotherapy. Data were collected between June 16, 2015, and February 10, 2016, in the Department of Radiation Oncology of an oncology training and research hospital. The sample comprised 60 participants. Data were collected using an introductory information form, common terminology criteria for adverse events and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaires C30 and CR29. Participants were randomly allocated to 3 groups: classical foot massage, reflexology, and standard care control. The classical massage group received foot massage using classical massage techniques, and the reflexology group received foot reflexology focusing on symptom-oriented reflexes twice a week during a 5-week chemoradiotherapy treatment schedule. The control group received neither classical massage nor reflexology. All patients were provided with the same clinic routine care. 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.
Introduction: Reflexology is the systematic practice of applying some pressure to particular points on the feet and hands to impact on health of related parts of the body.
Objective: To explore the practitioners' perspectives of reflexology in Malaysia.
Methods: Data was collected using face-to-face semi-structured interviews with practitioners in Malaysia. The interviews were conducted in the Malay language and recorded. Interview conversations were translated and transcribed verbatim. Responses relating to different themes were identified in each of the interviews and a coding frame was developed. For each theme, the relevant data enabled a description of the range of views and experiences. Data collection and analysis were conducted concurrently and recruitment was stopped when saturation had been reached. All respondents gave written consent for their participation.
Results: The findings show that reflexology treatment nowadays has been accepted as one of the ways to maintain general health. Practitioners believe that reflexology is able to detect some problems in to the body, which can make patients aware of a health condition and seek further treatment. However, if reflexology is not performed correctly, it may cause negative effects such as pain and bruises. Some practitioners voiced concern that illegal activities are taking place in unethical reflexology centers.
Conclusions: Empowering the practitioner as a professional would help gain the public's trust and confidence in their treatment. Strict enforcement of regulation related to illegal conduct in reflexology centers will improve people's perception of the practice.
Haptic exploration helps in the assessment of an object's property that includes its shapes and surface material. The interaction has been widely applied in various domains ranging from textile industry to medical field. Despite its importance, the identified haptic exploratory procedures by renowned authors might not be completely applicable in other domains. This paper presents a study that examines the haptic exploratory procedures in foot reflexology domain since the practices promote relaxation and stress relief. The study explored 2 traditional foot reflexology sessions, results were compared with the existing haptic exploratory procedures. The findings indicate new haptic exploratory procedures that are of important benefit to haptic exploration and enhanced the existing haptic exploratory procedure.
Background and purpose: Fatigue is a common symptom in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Reflexology is a nursing intervention that could reduce fatigue. This study aimed at determining the effects of foot reflexology on fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Materials and methods: A clinical trial with before and after design was conducted in hemodialysis patients attending Imam-Ali and Iran-mehr clinic in Bojnurd, 2013. Using randomized sampling 78 patients were allocated into three groups: intervention, placebo, and control group. The patients in intervention group received foot reflexology, and simple foot reflexology without pressing certain parts of the foot was done in placebo group. The patients in control group received only routine care. Piper Fatigue Scale was used to measure fatigue level before and after the intervention. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA and Paired t-test. Results: The results showed a significant difference between fatigue scores in intervention and control groups before and after the intervention (P<0.001). After the foot reflexology, the fatigue score in intervention group reduced to 3.8±1.27 (vs. 4.34±1.35 before the intervention), while the fatigue score in control group increased to 5.19±0.87 (vs. 4.91±1.04 before the intervention) (P<0.05). The placebo group showed no significant difference before and after the intervention (P=0.9). Conclusion: Reflexology can be used as a nursing intervention in reducing fatigue among patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Objective: To clarify the physical and psychological effects of head massage performed in the supine position using Ayurveda-based techniques (head treatment).
Design: Twenty-four healthy female students were included in the study. Using a crossover study design, the same participants were enrolled in both the head treatment intervention group and control group. There was an interval of 1 week or more between measurements.
Outcome measures: The physiologic indices measured included blood pressure and heart rate fluctuations (high frequency and low frequency/high frequency). The psychological markers measured included liveliness, depression, and boredom using the visual analogue scale method. State anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory method.
Results: The parasympathetic nerve activity increased immediately after head treatment. Upon completion of head treatment, the parasympathetic nerve predominance tended to gradually ease. Head treatment boosted freshness and relieved anxiety.
Conclusions: The results suggest that head treatment has a relaxing and refreshing effect and may be used to provide comfort.
The reputation and significance of foot reflexology therapy has continuously been on the rise. It is currently widely used as a complementary therapy, for stress relief and a potential diagnostic tool. In the society nowadays, there exist a lot of reflexology artifacts that claim to be an alternative substitutes to the traditional foot reflexology practice since the practices promote relaxation and stress relief. However, there has been very little or no attention given towards the verification of such anecdote and the identification of the similarities, differences and opportunities these reflexology artifacts offer. This paper hence aims to address this issue through the exploration of the practices. The study examined the interactive nature of four different sets of common reflexology artifacts from both the patients’ and the experts’ perspective. Data were collected through audio recorded semi-structured interview. The study findings revealed answers to those anecdotes, highlighting the similarities, difference and opportunities these reflexology artifacts offer. Implications for future research were also discussed.
Background and Objective: labor pain management is one of the difficulties in most countries. Pharmacological methods for pain relief during labor has many side effects whereas reflexology as one of the non-pharmacological methods for pain relief, is an ancient and noninvasive technique, but there is not enough information on its effect on pain intensity of delivery. Therefore, this research was conducted to determine the effect of reflexology on pain intensity of labor on primeparous in Shahid Akbarabadi hospital in 2009. Materials and Methods: A randomized clinical trial study was designed. A total of 120 parturient women with low risk pregnancy were randomly assigned into three groups. Each group received one of the following treatments: reflexology, support or routine care only. In all groups pregnant women asked to evaluate their severity of pain before and after the intervention and also in 6-7 and 8-10 cm of cervical dilatation. Data was collected through numerical pain scale. Results: Confounding factors were equal in all three groups. Pain intensity in all three dilatation stages was significantly lower in reflexology group (p< 0.001), but comparison between the supported group and routine care group, severity of pain was lower in supported group just in 4-5 cm dilatation, but during 6-7 and 8-10cm of dilatation there was no significant difference between these two groups. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, it seems that reflexology can decrease the pain intensity in first stage of labor.
This paper explores the potential application of Virtual Reality (VR) in the traditional foot reflexology (TFR) domain. The simulation of foot reflexology has since been a significant area of interest that has led to the development of manual artifacts and electronic stimulators/vibrators. However, there has been very little attention given towards identifying the existence of the three VR multi-sensory elements and the virtualization of the therapy. The study presented in this paper examines the multi-sensory interactive prospects of VR's key multi-sensory elements (visual, aural and hap tics) interactions in TFR. The interactions between the practitioner and patients in two traditional foot reflexology sessions were observed, and these participants were also interviewed. The study findings indicate the existence of the three VR multi-sensory elements in TFR and identified their interactive nature. Implications for future research are also discussed.
The ability to accurately locate the reflexive zones of the foot sole has been limited by research methods. In this paper, we propose a novel optical method to locate correctly the reflexive zones combining image registration and vision measurement. This approach can be performed quickly through transforming geometrically the standardized image (reference) of the reflexive zones in accord with that of the measured objects and projecting the transformed image back onto the plantar sole by an optical projection system. We present a novel transformation measure based on variable scale factor. For each point in the image coordinate system, the new coordinates are obtained through multiplying the initial coordinates by their corresponding scale factor. The deviations were calculated between the central point of the projecting image to that of the measured foot, and its 95% limits of agreement ranged from 2.35 to 2.50 mm. We demonstrate the algorithm working on 4 volunteer subjects' feet and the minimum difference was 1.51 mm. Results indicate that the proposed optical method locating the reflexive zones has better adaption and better operation, and can meet the requirement of self-medication and self-health compared with the traditional method via experienced doctors. This study lays a research foundation for locating other superficial features, such as acupuncture points, on body surface approximating a two-dimensional plane.
The aim of this interventional correlational study is to compare the effects of foot reflexology (FR) and connective tissue manipulation (CTM) in subjects with primary dysmenorrhea.
DESIGN:
A total of 30 participants having primary dysmenorrhea completed the study. Data, including demographics (age, body-mass index), menstrual cycle (age at menarche, menstrual cycle duration, time since menarche, bleeding duration), and menstrual pain characteristics (intensity and duration of pain, type and amount of analgesics), were recorded. Effect of dysmenorrhea on participants' concentration in lessons and in sports and social activities was assessed by using the visual analog scale. Participants rated their menstruation-related symptom intensity through the Likert-type scale. FR was applied to 15 participants for 3 days a week and CTM was performed on 15 participants for 5 days a week. Treatments were performed during one cycle, which started at the third or fourth day of menstruation and continued till the onset of next menstruation. Assessments were performed before treatment (first menstruation), then after termination of the treatment because of the next menstruation's onset (second menstruation), and ∼1 month after at the consecutive menstrual period (third menstrual cycle).
RESULTS:
Time-dependent changes in duration and intensity of pain along with analgesic amount show that both treatments provided significant improvements (p < 0.05) and no superiority existed between the groups (p > 0.05). A similar result was obtained in terms of time-dependent changes in concentration in lessons and difficulty in sports and social activities due to dysmenorrhea. Menstruation-related symptoms were found to be decreased after treatment and in the following cycle with both treatments (p < 0.05) where no difference existed between the groups (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
Both FR and CTM can be used in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and menstruation-related symptoms as these methods are free from the potentially adverse effects of analgesics, noninvasive, and easy to perform.
The application of multimodal interactivity in HCI and VR avails a host of advantages which includes enhancement of realism and the achievement of interactivity that is relatively close or identical to the conventional human to human interactions. Visual and aural interactions have been widely applied in various domains ranging from mobile industry to medical field. In Virtual reality stress therapy application particularly in the proliferation development towards the virtualization of traditional foot reflexology therapy, little is understood on the visual and aural interactive nature of the therapy and to what extent they contribute in relaxation and stress relief. This paper presents a study that examines from both the patients' and practitioners' perspective, the visual and aural interactive nature in foot reflexology domain since the practices promote relaxation and stress relief. The study explored 2 traditional foot reflexology sessions; data were collected through audio recorded semi-structured interview, and was analyzed using content analysis. Results were compared with the existing haptic exploratory procedures. The study findings presented the visual and aural interactive nature involved from the patients' and practitioners' perspective. Implications for future research are also discussed.
Reflex Therapy (RT), akin to reflexology, is a non-invasive physiotherapy modality approved by the UK Chartered Society of Physiotherapists. One hundred members of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Reflex Therapy (ACPIRT) participated in an audit to establish a baseline of practice. Findings indicate that experienced therapists use RT in conjunction with their professional skills to induce relaxation (95%) and reduce pain (86%) for patients with conditions including whiplash injury and chronic pain. According to 68% of respondents, RT is “very good,” “good” or “as good as” orthodox physiotherapy practices. Requiring minimal equipment, RT may be as cost effective as orthodox physiotherapy with regards to duration and frequency of treatment.
Influence of Reflex Zone Therapy of the Feet on Intestinal Blood Flow Measured by Color Doppler Sonography Objective: An influence on organ-associated blood flow is considered as a possible mechanism of action of reflex zone massage of the feet (FRZM) therapy. In the present study we investigated whether changes in intestinal blood flow can be achieved by FRZM. Material and Methods: 32 healthy adults (19 women and 13 men) were randomly assigned to the treatment or the placebo group. Subjects of the treatment group received foot massage on the zones assigned to the intestines and those of the placebo group received massage on zones unrelated to the intestines. Before, during and after FRZM, the blood flow velocity, the peak systolic and the end diastolic velocities in the superior mesenteric artery as well as the resistive index as a parameter of vascular resistance were calculated. Results: During FRZM, in the subjects of the treatment group there was a significant reduction in the resistive index (p = 0.021), suggesting an increase in the blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery and the subordinate vascular system. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the resistive index in the subjects of the placebo group. Conclusion: The reduction in the resistive index observed in the treatment group supports the assumption that FRZM improves blood flow in the organs considered to be associated with the specific foot zones, at least during the therapy process.
Using colour Doppler sonography blood flow changes of the right kidney during foot reflexology were determined in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomised study. 32 healthy young adults (17 women, 15 men) were randomly assigned to the verum or placebo group. The verum group received foot reflexology at zones corresponding to the right kidney, the placebo group was treated on other foot zones. Before, during and after foot reflexology the blood flow of three vessels of the right kidney was measured using colour Doppler sonography. Systolic peak velocity and end diastolic peak velocity were measured in cm/s, and the resistive index, a parameter of the vascular resistance, was calculated. The resistive index in the verum group showed a highly significant decrease (p ≤ 0.001) during and an increase (p = 0.001) after foot reflexology. There was no difference between men and women and no difference between smokers and non-smokers. Verum and placebo group significantly differed concerning alterations of the resistive index both between the measuring points before versus during foot reflexology (p = 0.002) and those during versus after foot reflexology (p = 0.031). The significant decrease of the resistive index during foot reflexology in the verum group indicates a decrease of flow resistance in renal vessels and an increase of renal blood flow. These findings support the hypothesis that organ-associated foot reflexology is effective in changing renal blood flow during therapy.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the specificity of the effects of massage (petrissage) on spinal motoneuron excitability as measured by changes in the peak-to-peak amplitude of H-reflex recordings. H-reflexes (and M-responses) were recorded from the distal aspects of the right triceps surae muscle of 8 men and 8 women, aged 20 to 37 years, with no neuromuscular impairments of the lower extremities. The H-reflexes were recorded during five control and four experimental conditions (20 trials at each condition). The control conditions (C1-C5) preceded and followed each experimental condition, providing a measure of the stability of the H-reflex. Each experimental condition consisted of a 4-minute period of massage of the ipsilateral and contralateral triceps surae and hamstring muscle groups (ITS, CTS, IHS, and CHS, respectively). The mean peak-to-peak amplitude of the H-reflex was found to be stable (range = 1.91-1.95 mV) across the five control conditions. H-reflex amplitudes recorded during the experimental conditions indicate that massage of the ITS resulted in a reduction of the H-reflex (0.83 mV) in comparison with the pretest control condition (C1) and the remaining experimental conditions (range = 1.77-2.23 mV). This difference was significant, and subsequent Newman-Keuls tests indicated a specificity of the effects of massage on the muscle group being massaged. [Sullivan SJ, Williams LRT, Seaborne DE, Morelli M. Effects of massage on alpha motoneuron excitability.
The practice of acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific points on the skin called 'acupuncture points' which are small regions of local or referred pain that are more sensitive than surrounding tissue. The fact that acupuncture points can be identified subjectively as tender points and are found to have characteristic electrical properties suggest that they are functional entities rather than structural ones. These functional properties are used diagnostically in a clinical setting as pathology in a particular body location has been shown to correlate with increased tenderness and electrical conductivity of the 'corresponding' acupuncture point using electronic 'point locators', which measure the DC resistance of points compared to surrounding skin. Commercially available point locators generally utilize a metal locator probe and an indifferent electrode and are designed to produce an auditory output (usually a high pitched tone) when a point is located. These devices however, are open to criticism. They are unable to control for local variations in skin thickness, surface secretions, or pressure placed on the electrode, and are only able to measure a single point at a time. These make them time consuming to use and subjective to user bias in point selection. Furthermore these devices do not store data and are therefore unsuitable for producing a map of skin resistance, which can be accessed over time. To overcome some of the limitations of currently available single probe devices, we have designed a multi-channel probe capable of measuring and then mapping the skin resistance of multiple points.
Using colour Doppler sonography blood flow changes of the right kidney during foot reflexology were determined in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomised study. 32 healthy young adults (17 women, 15 men) were randomly assigned to the verum or placebo group. The verum group received foot reflexology at zones corresponding to the right kidney, the placebo group was treated on other foot zones. Before, during and after foot reflexology the blood flow of three vessels of the right kidney was measured using colour Doppler sonography. Systolic peak velocity and end diastolic peak velocity were measured in cm/s, and the resistive index, a parameter of the vascular resistance, was calculated. The resistive index in the verum group showed a highly significant decrease (p </= 0.001) during and an increase (p = 0.001) after foot reflexology. There was no difference between men and women and no difference between smokers and non-smokers. Verum and placebo group significantly differed concerning alterations of the resistive index both between the measuring points before versus during foot reflexology (p = 0.002) and those during versus after foot reflexology (p = 0.031). The significant decrease of the resistive index during foot reflexology in the verum group indicates a decrease of flow resistance in renal vessels and an increase of renal blood flow. These findings support the hypothesis that organ-associated foot reflexology is effective in changing renal blood flow during therapy.
An influence on organ-associated blood flow is considered as a possible mechanism of action of reflex zone massage of the feet (FRZM) therapy. In the present study we investigated whether changes in intestinal blood flow can be achieved by FRZM.
32 healthy adults (19 women and 13 men) were randomly assigned to the treatment or the placebo group. Subjects of the treatment group received foot massage on the zones assigned to the intestines and those of the placebo group received massage on zones unrelated to the intestines. Before, during and after FRZM, the blood flow velocity, the peak systolic and the end diastolic velocities in the superior mesenteric artery as well as the resistive index as a parameter of vascular resistance were calculated.
During FRZM, in the subjects of the treatment group there was a significant reduction in the resistive index (p = 0.021), suggesting an increase in the blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery and the subordinate vascular system. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the resistive index in the subjects of the placebo group.
The reduction in the resistive index observed in the treatment group supports the assumption that FRZM improves blood flow in the organs considered to be associated with the specific foot zones, at least during the therapy process.
The capability of reflex points on the external ear to alter neuromuscular and neuropathic disorders has been attributed to the descending pain inhibitory pathways of the central nervous system. The inverted fetus perspective of the somatotopic arrangement of auricular acupuncture points was first described in the 1950's by Dr. Paul Nogier of France, and has received scientific support from double blind studies examining auricular diagnosis of musculoskeletal and of coronary disorders. Acupuncture points on the ear and on the body have lower levels of electrical skin resistance than surrounding tissue. These electrodermal differences are apparently related to autonomic control of blood vessels rather than increased sweat gland activity. The heightened tenderness of reactive acupuncture points may be explained by the accumulation of noxious, subdermal substances. Electrical stimulation of specific points on the external ear leads to site specific neural responses in different regions of the brain. Behavioral analgesia produced by auricular acupuncture can be blocked by the opiate antagonist naloxone, indicating the role of endorphinergic systems in understanding the underlying mechanisms of auriculotherapy. The anatomical structures and electrical application of the auricle are described as they relate to the localization of master points, musculoskeletal points, internal organ points, and neuroendocrine points.
Objective:
This study examined the intraclass reliability of different measures extracted from Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) stimulus-response curve that are used to assess neuromuscular excitability. The following measures were compared: (1) the peak-to-peak amplitude of the H-reflex at a stimulus intensity associated with 5% of the maximum M-wave; (2) the slope of the regression line of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve; and (3) the peak of the first derivative of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve, a new measure introduced in this paper.
Methods:
The H-reflex was elicited in the soleus for 24 subjects (12 males and 12 females) on 5 separate days. Vibration was applied to the Achilles tendon prior to stimulation to test the sensitivity of the measures on test day 4. The stimulus intensity was gradually increased from below the threshold for an H-reflex response to above the maximum M-wave (Mmax) response. The means of 5 evoked potentials at each intensity level were used to create both the H-reflex and M-wave stimulus-response curves for each subject across test days. Determination of reliability involves the consideration of both the stability and consistency of the measures. A repeated measures analysis of variance evaluated the stability of the group means across test sessions. The consistency of scores within individuals was determined by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Calculation of the 95% confidence interval of estimation was used to assess significant differences between ICCs.
Results:
The H-reflex measures were both stable and consistent across the first 3 test days. Achilles tendon vibration resulted in a profound reduction (59-70%) on test day 4, and then there was a return to baseline levels on test day 5. The ICC for H-reflex at a stimulus intensity associated with 5% of the maximum M-wave was 0.85. The ICC for the slope of the regression line of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve was 0.79, while it was 0.89 for the peak of the first derivative of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve. However, there was no statistical significance (P>0.05) between the 3 EMG measures of the H-reflex arc. Maximum M-wave amplitude had an ICC of 0.96 attesting to careful methodological controls.
Conclusions:
The peak of the first derivative of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve was shown to have comparable sensitivity and reliability as other more established measures.
Significance:
The first derivative of the H-reflex stimulus-response curve provides the rate of change, rather than amplitude, making it a robust measure of reflex arc excitability. The higher ICC for the first derivative offers greater statistical power, which is of practical significance.
Research in virtual reality has recognized the need for more realistic tactile display in addition to touch and non-touch display and force display. We propose a method of selectively stimulating only superficial mechanoreceptors. We show that it makes people feel a more realistic, finer virtual texture than possible by adjusting the stimulator spacing. The apparatus is simple and we expect this idea to develop into a device to display varieties of tactile feeling
See how energy therapies can normalize physiology and restore your patients' health! Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis, 2nd Edition provides a deeper understanding of energy and energy flow in the human body. Using well-established scientific research, this book documents the presence of energy fields, discerns how those fields are generated, and determines how they are altered by disease, disorder, or injury. It then describes how therapeutic applications can restore natural energy flows within the body. Written by recognized energy medicine expert Dr. James Oschman - who is also a physiologist, cellular biologist, and biophysicist - this resource shows how the science of energetics may be used in healing diseases that conventional medicine has difficulty treating.
There are several tactile receptors in the tissue of human fingers. In this study we calculate in detail the deformation of finger tissue when a finger comes into contact with a rigid plate using a FE (finite element) model to clarify the reason for the precise location of the receptors. The FE model is constructed using measured geometry and material properties. As a result, we found that the strain energy is concentrated at the tactile receptor locations. When a frictional force is applied, the stress/strain is concentrated near the edge of the contact area. By calculating the stress/strain distribution using models with/without epidermal ridges/papillae, we found that the shape of the epidermal ridges/papillae influences the stress/strain distribution near the tactile receptors.
Diagnostics of Appendicitis in Particular Consideration of the Acupuncture Point Lanwei – a Prospective Study Background: In almost all Western industrial nations, appendicitis is the most frequent cause for acute abdomen. Nevertheless, the diagnosis of appendicitis is often difficult, which manifests in highly negative laparotomy rates. In a prospective study we aimed to investigate if palpation of the acupuncture point Lanwei (extra point 22, extra point 33) which is located on the right leg may increase the accuracy in the diagnosis of appendicitis. Patients and Methods: Presurgically, the Lanwei point was examined for reproducible tenderness on 116 cooperative nonanesthetized patients admitted to hospital for suspected appendicitis. The results were compared with those of histological diagnosis. The examination of tenderness of the Lanwei sign was performed without knowing the results of other examinations. Additionally, other signs and laboratory parameters for appendicitis were examined using a standardized documentation form. Altogether, 17 presurgical variables, 18 clinical signs, and 3 tests were evaluated. Results: A positive Lanwei sign was documented in 65 cases (56%), whereas 51 patients (44%) had a negative Lanwei sign. 65 of the 116 patients were operated. 59 of those had a histologically proven appendicitis. The sensitivity of the Lanwei sign was 64.4%, specifity ranged at 50%. Rates for positive and negative predictive values were 92.7% and 12.5%, respectively. Odds ratio was estimated as 1.8. When comparing these parameters, the Lanwei sign ranged between the 7th and 10th place of the 22 most important clinical signs for appendicitis. The negative laparotomy rate was 9%, of which 4 of 6 patients had other indications for an operation. The rate of perforation was 15%. Conclusion: Compared with many conventional signs for appendicitis as for example Mc Burney, tender Sherren triangle, reduced peristalsis, the diagnostic value of the Lanwei sign is not sufficient. Although a reproducible positive Lanwei sign is a good hint for a true appendicitis, in case of a negative Lanwei sign the probability for an appendicitis may be relatively high. Because of the low negative predictive value, the Lanwei sign is not suitable for reducing negative laparatomy rates. As in many other studies, the one and only indicator for appendicitis which yields high results in all statistical parameters was not detected in this study. In comparison to the statistical parameters of traditional signs for appendicitis, the Lanwei sign cannot be regarded as a good diagnostic parameter for appendicitis.
During the last decade considerable interest has been evinced by scientists on the possible control of earth's electromagnetic environment on human physiology. The present paper discusses the effects of oscillatory magnetic fields in the extremely low frequency range on electrophysiological and biochemical parameters in human subjects. Normal subjects and practitioners of Yoga and meditation were exposed to sinusoidally oscillating magnetic fields in the frequency range of 0.01 to 10 Hz and with amplitudes of ±5 and ±50 nT generated inside a special controlled magnetic field enclosure with the subjects' heads oriented in the four cardinal directions and also in sitting posture, and against ambient magnetic fields of about 40000 nT (local geomagnetic field) and half this value (or 20000 nT). The ECG, finger blood flow and respiration were recorded continuously on a polygraph. The EEG was also recorded on an 8-channel machine with split-up of waves into alpha, beta, delta and theta components. Biochemical assays were carried out on the blood and urine.Certain decisive changes were observed in the electrophysiology, such as, for instance, a sharp inhibition of the brain's electrical activity with the head towards the North and, in contrast, an accentuation of activity in the East orientation. Alterations in the levels of metabolites of catechol and indole amines were seen in the North orientation.
We wanted to test the specific theory behind foot reflexology. Three reflexotherapists examined 76 patients of whom they had no previous knowledge. They were to localize the patients' problems and complaints by examination of the foot soles only; they had no other information about the patients. Each patient and the therapist graded problems related to 13 different parts of the body. Interrater agreement, measured by weighted Kappa, ranged from 0.04 to 0.22, and was significantly better than chance (p < 0.05) for six parts of the body. The overall Kappa was 0.11 (95% CI: 0.08-0.14). A score based on a detailed examination of the "colon zone" showed no significant difference between patients with many or few distal intestinal complaints. Generally, the therapists tended to score higher than the patients, thus overdiagnosing problems. The statistical agreement may be better than pure chance, but is too low to be of any clinical significance.
A gate control system modulates sensory input from the skin before it evokes pain perception and response.
The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the effects of therapeutic massage (consisting of effleurage, petrissage, and myofascial trigger point therapy) on pain perception, anxiety, and relaxation levels in hospitalized patients experiencing significant cancer pain. Thirty minutes of therapeutic massage was administered on two consecutive evenings to nine hospitalized males diagnosed with cancer and experiencing cancer pain. The subjects' self-reports of pain and relaxation (measured by Visual Analogue Scales) as well as anxiety (measured by the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory) were recorded before and immediately after the intervention. The objective physiologic measures of heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were obtained before, immediately after, and, finally, 10 min after the massage intervention. Massage therapy significantly reduced the subjects' level of pain perception (average = 60%) and anxiety (average = 24%) while enhancing their feelings of relaxation by an average of 58%. In addition to these subjective measures, all physiological measures (heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure) tended to decrease from baseline, providing further indication of relaxation. In conclusion, although the exact mechanism is not known, therapeutic massage is a beneficial nursing intervention that promotes relaxation and alleviates the perception of pain and anxiety in hospitalized cancer patients.
We evaluated objective criteria for defining points for needle insertion prior to conducting a multisite clinical trial of auricular acupuncture for cocaine addiction. Thirty-four cocaine-abusing subjects participated in a study in which the trial's active zones (Shenmen, Liver, Lung, and Sympathetic) and control zones (located on the ear helix) were divided into quadrants and assessed along four dimensions: electrical resistance, skin discoloration, skin topography, and tenderness. Acute effects of needles inserted into points of low electrical resistance in one ear and high electrical resistance in the other were also assessed. Results showed that the active zones had lower overall electrical resistance and more subcutaneous ridges than control zones. Zones did not possess significant variability along any single dimension. Acute effects of needling high and low resistance points were similar, differing only for "fullness." Based on these findings, and in view of the difficulty of accurately measuring electrical resistance at ear points, we do not recommend the use of electrical devices for point determination in the multisite study. At present, there seems to be little scientific basis for the preselection of specific points for needle insertion within auricular zones. Needle placement should be based upon clinical judgement.
Although biofeedback treatment is reported to be useful for patients with mild hypertension as an adjunct to medication, it is not certain whether the presence of organ damage affects its efficacy. The aim of this study is to clarify the clinical effects of biofeedback on mild hypertension in the absence and presence of organ damage.
Eleven mildly hypertensive outpatients without damage to the heart, brain, retina or kidney (4 men and 7 women), aged 40-65 years, and 11 mildly hypertensive outpatients with target organ damage and matching variables for age, sex and medication were included in this study. They underwent biofeedback treatment once a week for a total of four sessions. Results: As a result of these sessions, mean blood pressures (MBP) in the organ-damage-negative (-) group and in the organ-damage-positive (+) group were significantly reduced by 12 +/- 11 and 12 +/- 8, respectively. The decrease was still significant 3 months after the treatment in the organ-damage (-) group, whereas no significant change was found 1 or 3 months after the treatment in the organ-damage (+) group. Throughout these sessions, the ratio of low frequency to high frequency of heart rate variance as well as systolic and MBP gradually decreased in each group (p < 0.01); this ratio of heart rate variance was smaller, and the alpha-wave amplitude on the electroencephalogram was larger in the organ-damage (-) group (p < 0.05).
These results suggested that biofeedback intervention may be effective in mild hypertension, especially when the patient is organ damage (-). Sympathetic activity seems to play an important role in the differentiated response.
Microwave exposure under "athermal" conditions occurs when no temperature rise can be measured by conventional thermometry. The existence of biological effects arising from the athermal exposure is still controversial, partly because of a lack of the linear dose response relation. We propose a model in which pulsed microwave radiation causes a triggering of the heat shock or stress response by altering the conformation of proteins through a transient heating of the protein and its close environment. We support this by modelling using the heat diffusion equation and show that pulsed exposure even when athermal can lead to transient temperature excursions outside the normal range. We propose that the power window phenomenon in which biological effects are observed at low power levels may be caused by an incomplete triggering of the heat shock response.
Reflexology is an increasingly popular complementary therapy in which parts of the body are deemed to be represented on the soles of the feet. The aim of this study was to investigate whether this representation can be used as a valid method of diagnosis.
Three experienced reflexologists took part in this study. Eighteen adults with one or more of six specified conditions were identified from primary care records. Two reflexologists, who were blinded to the patients' conditions and monitored, then examined each patient's feet and rated the probability that each of the six conditions was present.
There is little evidence that the distribution of ratings vary with the status of the condition. Receiver operating curves suggest that this diagnostic method is very poor at distinguishing between the presence and absence of conditions. Inter-rater reliability (kappa) scores were very low, providing no evidence of agreement between the examiners.
Despite certain limitations to the data provided by this study, the results do not suggest that reflexology techniques are a valid method of diagnosis.
In almost all Western industrial nations, appendicitis is the most frequent cause for acute abdomen. Nevertheless, the diagnosis of appendicitis is often difficult, which manifests in highly negative laparotomy rates. In a prospective study we aimed to investigate if palpation of the acupuncture point Lanwei (extra point 22, extra point 33) which is located on the right leg may increase the accuracy in the diagnosis of appendicitis.
Presurgically, the Lanwei point was examined for reproducible tenderness on 116 cooperative nonanesthetized patients admitted to hospital for suspected appendicitis. The results were compared with those of histological diagnosis. The examination of tenderness of the Lanwei sign was performed without knowing the results of other examinations. Additionally, other signs and laboratory parameters for appendicitis were examined using a standardized documentation form. Altogether, 17 presurgical variables, 18 clinical signs, and 3 tests were evaluated.
A positive Lanwei sign was documented in 65 cases (56%), whereas 51 patients (44%) had a negative Lanwei sign. 65 of the 116 patients were operated. 59 of those had a histologically proven appendicitis. The sensitivity of the Lanwei sign was 64.4%, specificity ranged at 50%. Rates for positive and negative predictive values were 92.7% and 12.5%, respectively. Odds ratio was estimated as 1.8. When comparing these parameters, the Lanwei sign ranged between the 7th and 10th place of the 22 most important clinical signs for appendicitis. The negative laparotomy rate was 9%, of which 4 of 6 patients had other indications for an operation. The rate of perforation was 15%.
Compared with many conventional signs for appendicitis as for example Mc Burney, tender Sherren triangle, reduced peristalsis, the diagnostic value of the Lanwei sign is not sufficient. Although a reproducible positive Lanwei sign is a good hint for a true appendicitis, in case of a negative Lanwei sign the probability for an appendicitis may be relatively high. Because of the low negative predictive value, the Lanwei sign is not suitable for reducing negative laparatomy rates. As in many other studies, the one and only indicator for appendicitis which yields high results in all statistical parameters was not detected in this study. In comparison to the statistical parameters of traditional signs for appendicitis, the Lanwei sign cannot be regarded as a good diagnostic parameter for appendicitis.
The human brain is a biological organ. On one hand it is soft, flexible and adaptive, but on the other hand is relatively stable and coherent with well developed intelligence. In order to retain intelligent thinking in a soft and adaptive organ there needs to be a constant, globally available, synchronization system that continuously stabilizes the brain. Rapid intelligence and reactions requires and electromagnetic signalling system, supported by a biochemical system. The Schumann Resonance signal provides a brain frequency range matching electromagnetic signal, providing the synchronization needed for intelligence.
Reflexology is a non-conventional method for diagnosis and treatment of physical and medical problems by touching or applying pressure on certain areas on the foot surface. The reflexology method is based on the presumption that all body organs and various systems are represented on the foot surface.
The purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the reflexological diagnosis method.
Eighty patients from various clinics and departments in the Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, were examined twice by two different reflexologists. The diagnostics that resulted from these examinations were compared with the conventional medical diagnostics of the same patients. In addition, the level of correlation between the two reflexological examinations was tested.
Out of 18 body systems in 6 a statistically significant correlation was found between the conventional medical diagnosis and the two reflexological examinations. In 4 body systems, there was a statistically significant correlation between the conventional medical diagnosis and one out of the two reflexological examinations. The systems in which correlation was found are characterized by having a defined anatomic region. The examination of the significance of the diagnoses regarding the components of the body systems resulted in statistical significance in only 4 out of the 32 components. Between the two reflexological examinations, a statistically significant correlation was found in 14 out of the 18 body systems, and in only 15 out of the 32 system components.
The reflexology method has the ability to diagnose (reliable and valid) at a systematic level only, and this is applicable only to those body systems that represent organs and regions with an exact anatomic location.
Biological rhythms, physical wellbeing and mental states are dependent on our electrical brainwave system interacting with the extremely weak electromagnetic fields generated by the Earth's telluric and Cosmic radiations. In a single generation, since the evolution of humankind over millions of years, we are exposed to a wide range of powerful, artificially generated electromagnetic radiation which adversely affects the subtle balance in nature's energy fields and has become the source of so-called ‘diseases of civilisation’. This also includes electromagnetic sensitivity. Generally, there is a lack of awareness and understanding of the impact electromagnetic fields can have upon health and wellbeing.
Reflexology—the definitive practitioner's manual
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Reflexotherapy of the feet. Thieme: Stuttgart
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