Could reflexology help reduce delirium in intensive care?

Foot reflexology may help reduce delirium in children in intensive care, according to a new clinical trial published in The Scientific World Journal.

The study looked at children admitted to a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU), where delirium can be a common and distressing complication. Delirium can cause confusion, agitation, changes in awareness and disrupted sleep, making recovery more difficult for both children and their families.

Researchers carried out a randomised clinical trial involving 74 children admitted to a PICU. The children were divided into two groups, with one group receiving foot reflexology massage alongside standard care.

The researchers monitored physiological measures including heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation, as well as signs of delirium.

What did the study find?

The findings suggested that children who received foot reflexology massage experienced lower rates of delirium by the second day of the study compared to the control group.

The reflexology group also showed reductions in heart rate and blood pressure immediately after treatment sessions.

However, there was no significant difference in blood oxygen saturation between the two groups.

What does this mean?

“The evidences of our study show that foot reflexology can decrease delirium and regulate heart rate and blood pressure,” the researchers conclude.

Lower heart rate and blood pressure may reflect a calming effect on the nervous system, although the exact mechanisms are still not fully understood.

The bottom line is that whilst reflexology should not replace standard care, in hospital settings it may help create moments of calm and comfort in what can feel like an overwhelming environment.

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