The Effect of Reflexology on Radiation-related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients

The Effect of Reflexology on Radiation-related Fatigue and QOL in Breast Cancer Patients: a Pilot Study.

Oncologic patients often report increased fatigue during and after radiation therapy. Reflexology treatment has been demonstrated to alleviate symptoms of fatigue, nausea, and anxiety in oncologic patients treated with chemotherapy. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of reflexology on fatigue, quality of life, and quality of sleep of breast cancer patients during and after radiation therapy.

Reflexology (foot massage) is a complementary medicine technique which is performed by manual pressure on specific areas of the feet. Reflexology is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that are believed to reflect an image of the body on the feet with a premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.

The effect of reflexology on fatigue, quality of life, and quality of sleep of 20 breast cancer patients during and after radiation therapy will be compared to age-matched control group of 20 breast cancer patients treated by radiation therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Breast cancer adult patients scheduled to receive adjuvant radiation therapy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Open wounds or evidence of metastases on the lower limbs
• Touch therapy or other complementary therapy other than intervention procedure