Migraine and Reflexology

Reflexology can be effective in reducing the incidence and severity of migraines, particularly when the migraines are triggered by stress or hormonal changes.

Reflexology is most effective for treating migraines when done as a course of 6-8 treatments, followed by occasional (e.g. once every month) for maintenance.

Research

Several studies have been undertaken showing positive results for reflexology in treating migraines.

One study in Germany found foot reflexology to be as helpful to patients with headaches as medication (flunarizine), yet foot reflexology was fraught with less side-effects than medication.

Source: Lafuente A et al (1990). Effekt der Reflex zonenbehandlung am FuB bezuglich der prophylaktischen Behandlung mit Flunarizin bei an Cephalea-Kopfschmerzen leidenden Patieten.Erfahrungsheilkunde. 39, 713-715.

Another study was conducted in Denmark on 220 patients over a maximum of 6 months (average 10 treatments each) and again 3 months after treatments ended, with patients filling out diaries. The majority of the 220 patients were 25-54 years; 33% had previously experienced alternative treatment with success; 63% had headaches for more than 9 years, 71% for more than 6 years.

Results

At final treatment: 23% were cured, 55% were helped which equals a positive effect on 78% (25% from the tension headache group were cured and 20% from migraine group). At the time of follow-up only 23% of the migraine patients had no effect. Also at the follow up:41% obtained a better life quality, 53% felt physically better, 50% psychologically better.

Source: "Headache/Migraine - Has Reflexology an Effect?" by Leila Eriksen