Seven trials were included, five of randomised design (214 participants overall).
All of the studies had methodological flaws, including small sample size.
Trial 1: No significant alterations in plasma cortisol levels occurred as a result of reflexology foot massage of the pituitary-adrenal zones.
Trial 2: Patients receiving daily foot reflexology for eight days reported a reduction in anxiety levels while those receiving daily reassurance or no intervention did not report reduced levels.
Trial 3: The intensity and duration of headaches were not significantly different between groups receiving regular foot reflexology plus oral placebo versus arm massage plus oral flunarizin at the end of the 2-3 month treatment period. Similar results were seen at three months follow-up.
Trial 4: No between-group differences were seen in patients receiving either foot reflexology plus conventional care or conventional care alone for symptomatic improvement of asthma. Follow-up was at six months.
Trial 5: One trial aimed to determine whether post-operative medication could be reduced through the adjunctive use of reflexology. Although fewer drugs were given in the reflexology group, no formal statistical evaluation was carried out.
Trial 6: Significantly fewer PMS symptoms were observed in women receiving ear, hand, and foot reflexology compared with those receiving placebo reflexology for two months. Two months after discontinuation of therapy, the between-group difference was still statistically significant.
Trial 7: Blood glucose levels and platelet aggregability in patients with type II diabetes were normalised in a group receiving daily foot reflexology for 30 days; no such effects were seen in those receiving no intervention.