Author's Abstract The abstract and the information and conclusions contained therein were written by the authors of the publication.
| Purpose/Objectives
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of reflexology, a complementary therapy that applies pressure to specific areas of the feet.
Design
Longitudinal, randomized clinical trial.
Setting
Thirteen community-based medical oncology clinics across the midwestern United States.
Sample
A convenience sample of 385 predominantly Caucasian women with advanced-stage breast cancer receiving chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapy.
Methods
Following the baseline interview, women were randomized into three primary groups: reflexology (n = 95), lay foot manipulation (LFM) (n = 95), or conventional care (n = 96). Two preliminary reflexology (n = 51) and LFM (n = 48) test groups were used to establish the protocols. Participants were interviewed again postintervention at study weeks 5 and 11.
Main Research
Variables
Breast cancer–specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL), physical functioning, and symptoms.
Findings
No adverse events were reported. A longitudinal comparison revealed significant improvements in physical functioning for the reflexology group compared to the control group (p = 0.04). Severity of dyspnea was reduced in the reflexology group compared to the control group (p < 0.01) and the LFM group (p = 0.02). No differences were found on breast cancer–specific HRQOL, depressive symptomatology, state anxiety, pain, and nausea.
Conclusions
Reflexology may be added to existing evidence-based supportive care to improve HRQOL for patients with advanced-stage breast cancer during chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapy.
Implications for Nursing
Reflexology can be recommended for safety and usefulness in relieving dyspnea and enhancing functional status among women with advanced-stage breast cancer.
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This publication is referenced in the following studies:
- Wyatt et al. (2012): Health-Related Quality-of-Life Outcomes: A Reflexology Trial With Patients With Advanced-Stage Breast Cancer
