If you’ve ever treated yourself to a foot massage, you’ll need no introduction to the art of reflexology. A feature of Oriental medicine for over 5000 years, there is evidence of reflexology being administered as early as 2330 BC. We have designed our massage sandals to deliver a rejuvenating, soothing reflexology foot massage with every step but, did you know that reflexology is also scientifi8cally and medically proven to be beneficial for a number of health conditions?
The University of Kyoto, 2006
Before we delve into studies showing the impact of reflexology across a wide range of specific health conditions, it’s worth noting that a team of medical researchers at the University of Kyoto studied the impact of Kenkoh shoes. They concluded that wearing Kenkoh massage sandals for up to four hours a day boosted circulation, improved energy levels, reduced swelling and improved mood.
Reflexology and Diabetes
A number of studies have confirmed that there is a link between the administration of reflexology and the management of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is known to cause neuropathy, which can lead to numbness and sensations such as pins and needles in the feet.
A 2014 random clinical trial by Dalai et al (ref: 1) concluded that diabetes patients receiving reflexology noted improvement in some symptoms, including nerve conductivity, better glycaemic control and pain reduction.
Reflexology and stress
There has been a wealth of research into the use of reflexology as a means of reducing stress and anxiety. The Department of Nursing at Kangwon National University, in Korea ran a study in 2010 (ref: 2) to evaluate the effects of self-foot reflexology on stress. It concluded that, “self-foot reflexology is an effective nursing intervention in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and, in improving skin temperature.”
Reflexology and Cancer
Multiple studies have been conducted to better learn about the impact reflexology can have for cancer patients. A study by Hodgson in 2000 found that reflexology led to improvements in a range of areas including appearance, breathing, communication, mobility, mood, pain and tiredness. Also in 2000, a study by Stephenson et al found that reflexology led to a significant decrease in pain in patients being treated for breast cancer, though some have noted that there are difficulties in creating studies for reflexology that meet the randomized control methodology as that calls for blind testing, which isn’t possible.
Reflexology and migraines
A blind random trial by Testa in 2000 (ref: 3) showed reflexology to be effective at treating migraines and tension headaches, with results on par with taking medication.
References:
- https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/reflexology/what-does-research-say-about-refloxology
- https://synapse.koreamed.org/DOIx.php?id=10.4040/jkan.2011.41.1.110
- https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/reflexology/what-does-research-say-about-refloxology