Reflexology fails the test
posted in - CAM watch, - Palmdoc |
Ever noticed the mushrooming of shop-lots with the gaudy “feet” signage proclaiming that Reflexology services are available?
While the foot massage may be relaxing, it however fails the scientific test when it comes to an analysis of clinical trials
18 RCTs met all the inclusion criteria. The studies examined a range of conditions: anovulation, asthma, back pain, dementia, diabetes, cancer, foot oedema in pregnancy, headache, irritable bowel syndrome, menopause, multiple sclerosis, the postoperative state and premenstrual syndrome. There were > 1 studies for asthma, the postoperative state, cancer palliation and multiple sclerosis. Five RCTs yielded positive results. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Jadad scale. The methodological quality was often poor, and sample sizes were generally low. Most higher-quality trials did not generate positive findings. CONCLUSION: The best evidence available to date does not demonstrate convincingly that reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition.
Now I wonder if the MOH will implement “foot reflexology” in their designated CAM hospitals? 
Last 5 posts by Palmdoc
- Doctors’ compulsory service may be reduced? - February 8th, 2010
- Condolences - February 8th, 2010
- Unrecorded leave for organ donors - February 8th, 2010
- Cancer can be prevented - February 3rd, 2010
- Beware of HOs - February 2nd, 2010
November 24th, 2009 at 1:51 pm
No need for randomized trial. My one (and only) experience traumatized me so much, I never went for another one: http://jimbocyberdoc.wordpress.com/2007/10/09/brain-foot/
November 24th, 2009 at 5:50 pm
I think Reflexology should be given the boot in gomen hospitals.
One pharmacist has already complained that funds for medications are insufficient, and the allocation under Budget 2010 is even reduced!
http://bit.ly/4ZGo98
Where are we going to get money for reflexology?
No public funds for reflexology, please!
Kaki urut? Ka Ki Lai!
December 1st, 2009 at 3:04 pm
These shop-lots with the “feet” signage are actually brothels in disguise.