Alternative Therapies in Pain Management: A Brief Review

The purpose of this paper was to bring awareness to use of Reflexology as an effective therapy in managing pain especially in the post-operative setting. This paper was completed in conjunction with the authors and their faculty member as a requirement for completion of a master’s of science in nursing degree program.

The oxford dictionary [1], defines reflexology as a system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are reflex points in the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body. Sensors in each body part are stimulated by applying the reflexology technique in order to improve the blood flow and energy circulation, giving a sense of relaxation to a specific body part or area [1]. A total of 12 articles were reviewed from the MEDLINE database for this paper. Reflexology has proven to be non-invasive, nonpharmacological, and is easy to use as a complimentary therapy. Training is required of providers to insure the consistency of the therapy provided.

Keywords:Reflexology, Non-invasive and nonpharmacological, Pain management, Complementary and alternative medicine