Use of reflexology in managing secondary lymphoedema for patients affected by treatments for breast cancer: A feasibility study

Abstract

Abstract:Purpose: The aim of this feasibility study was to examine the use of reflexology lymphatic drainage (RLD) in the treatment of breast-cancer related lymphoedema (BCRL) with a view to further research. Methods: An uncontrolled trial was conducted with 26 women who had developed lymphoedema in one arm following treatment for breast cancer. Changes in upperlimb volumes and in participant concerns and wellbeing were measured. Qualitative data were also collected. Results: A significant reduction in the volume of the affected arm was identified at follow-up compared to baseline. This reduction in volume appeared to be maintained for more than six months. Participant concerns and wellbeing significantly improved. Conclusions: RLD may be a useful intervention for BCRL although the results could not be attributed to the reflexology intervention because of research design limitations. The main conclusion was that there was sufficient evidence for further research using a randomized controlled trial.

Interventions for Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema: Clinical Practice Guideline From the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy of APTA

“…At this time, there is insufficient evidence involving nutrition/diet, 83 reflexology, 84 aromatherapy, 83 moxibustion, 85 extracorporeal shock wave therapy, 86 and relaxation/mediation techniques 87 in individuals with BCRL. Although no significant volume reduction occurred with these interventions, there may be other benefits such as decreased anxiety, decreased depression, 87 and increased overall well-being.…”

Comparing the effect of foot and hand reflexology on pain severity after appendectomy: A randomized clinical trial

“…[23] Nurses, as important members of healthcare teams, play a significant role in managing pain and mitigating pain and discomfort in patients. [45] Appendicitis is one of the main causes of acute pain, with a prevalence of 9.38 per 10000 population in the United States. [6] Generally, postoperative pain as the most common problem of patients is influenced by different factors, such as type of surgery and anesthesia, surgery time, and patient's psychological status.…”

Making sense of cranial osteopathy: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

“…They also reported feelings of optimism and a return to activity and work. The illustration of the physical and sensory experience of reflexology is surprisingly muted, particularly considering the significant reduction in arm volume reported by the authors in the quantitative paper (Whatley et al (2016)) that accompanies Whatley, Street and Kay (2018). One participant is quoted as reporting "a sort of rippling effect in my arm, sort of little ripples down" (ibid., p. 127) and another as experiencing "something moving in my arm" (ibid., p. 127).…”