The benefits of reflexology massage for pain reduction in cancer patients

Abstract

Introduction: Locally it is estimated that around 2100 individuals are diagnosed with cancer each year. It is predicted that the quality of life of these individuals will be affected by cancer-related symptoms such as pain. Moreover, it is argued that from all the symptoms that cancer may impose, pain is the most feared and debilitating one; leading to other several health problems such as anxiety and depression. Research question: Is reflexology massage beneficial to reduce pain in cancer patients? PICO elements: Individuals living with cancer, Reflexology massage, No reflexology massage, Pain reduction Method: Research that has been conducted between 2010 and 2020 was considered for this dissertation. The following databases were used for the identification of relevant articles: Academic Search Complete via EBSCO, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Al- lied Health Literature (CINAHL) via EBSCO, and Medline via ProQuest. Eight articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this dissertation. The CASP and AMSTAR critical appraisal tools were utilised to assist in identifying the strength and weaknesses of the methodology used. Ethical issues were also addressed and taken into consideration throughout this review. Findings: While the evidence seems to favour the use of reflexology in the reduction of cancer pain, a definite conclusion cannot be drawn. This is because inconsistence between outcomes and various gaps identified in the literature were present Implementation and Recommendations: To establish the effectiveness of reflexology, further research on a national and global level is necessary. Healthcare professionals and cancer patients should be educated regarding reflexology and its potential benefits. Such research can contribute in the development of guidelines and culture-specific policies with the aim to support and define the needs of individuals living with cancer that are interested in reflexology to be merged with their conventional treatment.