Multiple Sclerosis benefits from Reflexology

Reflexology improves the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a new study published in Multiple Sclerosis (2003;9:356-61). Reflexology is a therapeutic technique from traditional Chinese medicine. It involves applying pressure to the endpoints of the meridians, or channels, through which energy flows through the body. These points are on the soles of the feet and correspond with specific areas and organs of the body. Although very few studies of reflexology exist, one preliminary study suggested a benefit in people with MS.

In the current study, 53 people with MS were randomly assigned to receive either (1) reflexology treatment, which included massage of specific points on the soles of the feet and massage of the calf, or (2) "sham treatment," which included massage of the calf only. Treatments lasting 45 minutes were given weekly for eleven weeks. Participants were evaluated to determine scores for the following symptoms: paresthesias, urinary symptoms, muscle strength, and muscle spasticity.

At the end of the study, significant improvement was observed in all four symptom scores in the group receiving reflexology treatment, but no significant improvement in any of the scores was observed in the group receiving sham treatment. The reflexology group improved significantly more than the sham group in scores of paresthesias, urinary symptoms, and muscle spasticity, but the difference in improvement in muscle strength between the two treatment groups did not reach statistical significance. The improvement in paresthesias observed in the reflexology group remained significant at a follow-up evaluation three months after the final treatment.