Hand reflexology linked to lower pain and anxiety in heart patients

Classical hand massage and reflexology have been compared in a new trial of people recovering from coronary angiography.

Coronary angiography is a procedure used to look at the blood vessels supplying the heart. Although it is commonly carried out, some people experience pain, anxiety and changes in vital signs afterwards.

The study involved 70 patients who had undergone coronary angiography in hospital. Half received reflexology hand massage and half received classical hand massage. Both treatments were given to both hands for 20 minutes after the procedure.

What did the study find?

Both approaches appeared to have some positive effects, but the reflexology group showed greater reductions in pain and anxiety compared with the classical hand massage group.

Systolic blood pressure fell significantly in both groups, while diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate reduced significantly only in the reflexology group. Oxygen saturation also increased significantly in the reflexology group, although there was no significant change in breathing rate.

What does this mean?

“Reflexology was more effective than classical hand massage in reducing pain, anxiety, and certain vital signs after coronary angiography,” outline the researchers in the journal of Heart & Lung.

This is an encouraging finding, particularly because pain and anxiety can make recovery more difficult after medical procedures. A short, gentle hand reflexology session may offer a simple supportive approach in a hospital setting.

Reflexology should not be seen as a replacement for medical care, especially after a heart-related procedure. But this study adds to growing research suggesting that reflexology may have a role as a complementary therapy, helping some people feel calmer and more comfortable alongside conventional treatment.

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