Massage Magazine recently published a report that shows that reflexology can improve a breast-cancer survivor's quality of life. 

This according to researchers from Michigan State University, which tested three types of complimentary and alternative therapies—reflexology, guided imagery and reminiscence therapy for women receiving chemotherapy during the late stages of breast cancer.

Reflexology is a system that involves pressure on specific points on the feet, hands and ears, although the feet are addressed primarily. The randomized, controlled trial of the psychological effects of reflexology in early breast cancer show reflexology improves quality of life for breast-cancer survivors.

For this study, 183 women were randomized at six weeks post-breast surgery to self-initiated support, SIS plus reflexology, or SIS plus scalp massage.

The study revealed that reflexology was shown to be the most effective complimentary and alternative therapy. Patients experienced a decrease in depression and anxiety, and an increase in quality of life.

When compared to SIS, reflexology and massage had statistically significant, and, for reflexology, clinically worthwhile, effects on quality of life following surgery for early breast carcinoma, the researchers noted.

It also showed that foot reflexology helped these women cope better. They were not only given emotional support, but also were able to benefit from the physical benefits of reflexology, namely to increase circulation, release pain, stress and tension, and to boost the immune system.