Key result
Foot reflexology reduces systolic blood pressure by ~15 mmHg.
Why the study?
Foot reflexology has shown partial effectiveness in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients, but its impact requires further examination.
Does foot reflexology massage reduce blood pressure in hypertensive individuals?
Does foot reflexology massage reduce blood pressure in hypertensive individuals?
Absolute Event Rate: 139.2% vs 154.45%
p-value: p=<0.001
A 15-minute foot reflexology massage significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a small cohort of hypertensive individuals, suggesting potential as a complementary home-based therapy.
Should not yet change practice; leaves open efficacy in controlled trials.
Hypertension is characterized by a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of at least 130 mm Hg and/or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) exceeding 80 mmHg. Foot reflexology has demonstrated effectiveness in lowering heart rate (HR) among patients with stage 2 hypertension, and it has also been partially effective in reducing blood pressure. This research aimed to examine the impact of foot reflexology massage on decreasing blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. The intervention involved providing reflexology massage to a randomly selected group of 20 participants. Blood pressure readings were collected before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis using the paired sample t-test revealed a significant reduction in blood pressure, with a p-value below 0.001. Based on these findings, it is suggested that people with hypertension practice foot reflexology independently at home, and that healthcare providers at community health centers deliver education about the benefits of this therapy in managing blood pressure.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Agustina et al. (2025) studied Hypertension (n=20). Foot reflexology massage vs. Pre-intervention baseline was evaluated on Systolic blood pressure (p=<0.001). A 15-minute foot reflexology massage significantly reduced systolic blood pressure from 154.45 mmHg to 139.20 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure from 90.90 mmHg to 85.20 mmHg (p < 0.001).
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: