Under the spotlight: reflexology

Used to heal since ancient Egyptian times, we look at how reflexology may help people with arthritis

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that hinges on the belief that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to the organs and glands of the body. Stimulating these areas correctly can create a positive effect in the corresponding part of the body.

Evidence exists that reflexology has been practised since ancient Egyptian times. Today it is relatively common – and can be used to treat arthritis according to the British Reflexology Association.

“Reflexology aids pain relief and may reduce inflammation and ease the symptoms of arthritis,” explains Nicola Hall, chair of the British Reflexology Association.

No clinical trials on the exact subject of reflexology and arthritis have been carried out yet. The lack of evidence is largely due to lack of funding and while there are reported to be reams of clinical trials from China, because they are not written in English they will not be accepted in academic journals.

However, there is some positive evidence in the area.

“A case study of one patient with rheumatoid-arthritis-associated foot pain showed that the foot pain was reduced in both feet directly after reflexology treatments and the pain reduction lasted for two to three days,” says Rosanna Bickerton, a reflexologist who worked in pain research after studying neuropharmacology at university.

Another recent (albeit small) study carried out by the University of Portsmouth suggests that reflexology may be as effective as painkillers in relieving acute pain.

A total of 15 people had two sessions of submerging their foot in ice water. In one session they had reflexology before they submerged their foot; in the other they believed they were receiving treatment from a TENS machine (but it was switched off).

When the participants received reflexology they had higher pain thresholds and tolerances than when they received the pretend TENS treatment. Reflexology resulted in 40% less pain and people could withstand it for about 45% longer.

Publishing their work in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, the authors suggest that reflexology could complement conventional treatments for painful conditions such as osteoarthritis.

“As we predicted, reflexology decreased pain sensations,” says Carol Samuel who led the study. “It is likely that reflexology works in a similar manner to acupuncture by causing the brain to release chemicals that lessen pain signals.”

The other angle

But reflexology is not available through the NHS and some are less convinced of its benefits.

“The best clinical evidence does not demonstrate convincingly reflexology to be an effective treatment for any medical condition,” say Edzard Ernst, a Professor of Complementary Medicine at the University of Exeter who reviewed the literature in 2011. “At best it generates a placebo effect and while it does not have any negative side effects, it can mean that some patients might forfeit effective treatments… and it costs money.”

So the answer is – don’t expect a miracle cure from reflexology and always seek conventional treatment as medically advised first. But if you decide to give it a go for pain relief, here’s what to consider.

How to choose a reflexologist

Ask your GP and friends and family if there is a tried and tested reflexologist that they recommend. Remember that credentials are key.

“Go for a qualified practitioner who is a member of a professional body such as the British Reflexologist Association, the Association of Reflexologists and the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council,” Nicola suggests.

What happens in my first appointment?

The only clothing to be removed is shoes, socks or tights but wear comfortable clothing so you feel relaxed. Before the session begins the reflexologist will built up a picture of your health, recording any medication you take, recent illness and operations and your reasons for trying reflexology. This allows the reflexologist to customise the treatment plan to meet your needs.

After discussing how reflexology works, you will lie on a sofa, be reclined in a chair or put your feet up on a stool where they will be examined before the session starts. Gentle music may be played in the background and candles lit to enhance the relaxing atmosphere.  It’s up to you whether you close your eyes and relax or chat during the session.

One foot at a time is worked on and the reflexologist may use powder, cream or oil to help them to work their fingers and thumbs across the reflex points. Pressure applied should be firm but not painful.

“As reflexology is a holistic therapy, it is suitable for all ages,” Rosanna says. “The pressure applied may be adjusted for someone with fragile skin or the elderly or very young. If there are areas of pain on the feet, the pressure will be reduced.”

The session should last for about 45 minutes and the reflexologist will suggest that you have four to six weekly treatments to begin with.

Drink plenty of water afterwards.

The effects

“Sometimes people with arthritis experience more pain in the affected joint for about 24 hours after treatment although this tends only to happen with arthritic conditions and not other joint problems,” Nicola explains.

We don’t absolutely know how reflexology works, but there are many theories.

“Personally, I think it may be something to do with touching the body bringing about a change to the nervous system,” Rosanna says. “It’s lovely and relaxing, and when the body is relaxed it’s more able to bring itself into balance and heal. It’s a therapy that’s been tested by time.”

Further information

·         Association of Reflexologists, www.aor.org.uk, tel 01823 351010.

·         British Reflexology Association, www.britreflex.co.uk, tel 01886 821 207.

·         International Institute of Reflexology, www.reflexology-uk.net, tel 0114 247 1725.

Biography information

Rosanna Bickerton qualified as a reflexologist in the UK in 1994. She qualified to practise Chinese Reflexology in 2002 and honed her skills with Prof Hang, Chairman of the China Reflexology Association in Beijing in 2004. Rosanna was one of the first to be awarded a Fellowship by her governing body, the Association of Reflexologists in 2009. She came to complementary medicine from science having previously read pharmacology at Bristol University, specialising in the central nervous system and pain.

Visit www.handsonfeet.com or tel 07885 785770 for more information.