But a recent study by Portsmouth University looks set to change that, after researchers found that, in certain circumstances, it may be as effective as painkillers.
The small study saw 15 people submerge their hands in ice-cold water. In one session they were given reflexology beforehand, and in another they believed they were receiving pain relief from a TENS machine that wasn’t actually switched on.
Those who had reflexology first were able to keep their hand in the water for longer before it felt painful (40%), and were able to tolerate the pain longer (45%).
Dr Carol Samuel, a trained reflexologist and co-author of the study, says: “As we predicted, reflexology decreased pain sensations.
“It’s likely that reflexology works in a similar manner to acupuncture by causing the brain to release chemicals that lessen pain signals.
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