Study: Therapeutic Effects of Reflexology on Sleep Issues and Fatigue

Reflexology consists of applying pressure to various points on the body. Although research is still rather scarce, modern science has validated some of its traditional uses, including improving women's health.¹ This 2021 clinical trial explored the effects of reflexology on sleep quality and fatigue in postmenopausal women.

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Study Design

Turkish researchers conducted this trial on 72 postmenopausal women, reporting sleep problems and fatigue.

Women were randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention group received 12 reflexology sessions. The control group, on the other hand, received no treatment.

Researchers measured outcomes using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and an Introductory Information Form.

Their findings of this trial were published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine.

Study Findings

After 12 reflexology sessions, women in the intervention group showed a significantly decreased mean PSQI score.

They also had significantly lower FSS scores after the intervention in comparison to women in the control group.

What Does It Mean?

The results of this clinical trial demonstrate that foot reflexology can relieve sleep problems and fatigue during menopause. Resolving sleep problems and decreasing fatigue is key for improving postmenopausal women's quality of life.

Moreover, having easy, non-pharmacological, and inexpensive treatments for menopause symptoms at their disposal enables women passing through the menopausal transition to make the best decisions about their health.