The impact of reflexology for constipation in a hospice. V1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The impact of reflexology for constipation in a hospice.
IRAS ID
253007
Contact name
Judith Whatley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
Research question: Does reflexology have an impact on constipation in a hospice population?
This project aims to explore the use of reflexology for the symptoms of constipation and evaluate impact on the quality of life of hospice patients. This exploratory study aims to inform the development of a larger randomised control trial evaluating effects of reflexology on constipation.
Constipation is identified as a common symptom in the population of hospice users, affecting quality of life and functional status. Current management lies solely with pharmacological approaches thereby increasing the drug burden on patients with a concurrent impact on health economics. Potential benefits include less reliance on medication, improvements to constipation symptoms and quality of life.
Reflexology involves pressure being applied to specific areas of the feet by a qualified and experienced practitioner using thumb, finger and hand techniques.
The role of reflexology in hospice care is common and anecdotal evidence of improvements in a variety of symptoms typical of constipation are reported. Existing studies of the impact of reflexology on constipation show some positive results however are limited in number, sample size, population type and generalisability.
The proposed study will involve recruiting approximately 20 willing patients from Hospice of the Valleys who suffer with constipation and who would be offered reflexology regardless of the study. Each participant will receive four, weekly sessions of reflexology and record changes in bowel habits, medication and quality of life. The treatments will be carried out in the Hospice Day Centre or in the homes of the patients depending on their stability on assessment. Follow-up data will be collected one week after the final intervention to gain further insight into any possible lasting effects of reflexology on constipation and the quality of life of hospice patients.REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/NW/0179
Date of REC Opinion
12 Apr 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion