Reflexology does not work

Reflexology is an alternative medicine technique that involves the massaging or applying pressure to parts of the feet with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general overall health status.

Now we have two systematic reviews of the evidence on reflexology:

The review in the Medical Journal of Australia concluded that:

“The best evidence available to date does not demonstrate convincingly that reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition.”

The review in the Journal of Advanced Nursing concluded that:

“There is no evidence for any specific effect of reflexology in any conditions, with the exception of urinary symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. Routine provision of reflexology is therefore not recommended.”

Quackwatch commented that:

“Reflexology is based on an absurd theory and has not been demonstrated to influence the course of any illness. Done gently, reflexology is a form of foot massage that may help people relax temporarily. Whether that is worth $35 to $100 per session or is more effective than ordinary (noncommercial) foot massage is a matter of individual choice. Claims that reflexology is effective for diagnosing or treating disease should be ignored. Such claims could lead to delay of necessary medical care or to unnecessary medical testing of people who are worried about reflexology findings.“

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