The effectiveness of reflexology as an adjunct to standard treatment in childhood idiopathic constipation : a single blind randomised controlled trial

• Main Author: Gordon, Jeanette Susan
• Other Authors: Alder, Beth
• Published: Edinburgh Napier University 2007
• Subjects: 618.92; RT Nursing
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.506370

Constipation is common in childhood, rarely life threatening and' therefore might be expected to have little impact on health care provision. The reality is somewhat different, with many children requiring medical and nursing management for this condition that causes great misery and discomfort. Many families consider the use of complementary and or alternative medicine (CAM) as a treatment option when conventional treatment 'fails'. The use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in paediatrics is increasing and is popular with parents/carers but there is currently little evidence to support its use in general and no randomised clinical trials investigating the use of reflexology in children in particular. The thesis presents the development of a randomised controlled study to investigate the effectiveness of reflexology when taught to parents and delivered as adjunct to standard treatment. It includes a systematic review of the literature pertaining to childhood idiopathic constipation and reflexology; the rationale for the choice of method and the development of the clinical trial. The study that was undertaken compared the way in which children with chronic idiopathic constipation (Cre) respond to reflexology treatment or foot massage when these treatments are taught to their parents and carers, and used as part of their standard medical treatment. The optimal way to manage childhood idiopathic constipation is still unknown however this trial has demonstrated that reflexology has a role in improving outcomes for children when taught to parents and used as an adjunct to standard treatment. This is the only RCT of reflexology as practised by parents in paediatric practice to date and further well-designed studies are needed.