Foot Reflexology and Pain and Ankle Brachial Index and Walking Impairement

The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Pain, Walking Impairement and Ankle Brachial Index Level in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease

This randomized controlled study aimed to determine the effect of foot reflexology on pain, walking impairement and ankle brachial index level in patients with peripheral artery disease

Patients with PAH may experience pain in the legs, cramps, pain or aching symptoms (claudication) in the hip, thigh or leg calf, along with compulsive movements such as walking. Reflexology is reported to have effects such as protecting the tissue integrity of the feet, increasing skin turgor, reducing neuropathic pain and increasing peripheral blood flow. For this reason, this study aimed to determine the effect of foot reflexology on pain, walking impairement and ankle brachial index level in patients with peripheral artery disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients over 18 years of age with PAH;
• no fractures or open wounds in both lower extremities;
• absence of unilateral or bilateral amputation of the lower extremities

Exclusion Criteria:

• having an acute infection with fever;
• requiring an acute surgical condition
• undergoing femoral-popliteal bypass surgery
• Having a verbal communication problem such as Alzheimer's or dementia