Foot reflexology improves sleep quality and reduces restless legs syndrome in female patients with multiple sclerosis
In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial of 64 female MS patients, foot reflexology performed for 4 weeks (3 times/week, 26 min/session) significantly improved sleep quality (p < 0.001) and reduced restless legs syndrome (p < 0.001) compared to a sham group. The sham group showed no significant change in sleep quality (p = 0.30) and an increase in restless legs syndrome (p < 0.001). Between-group differences were significant at both immediate and 1-month follow-ups (p < 0.0001).
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Foot reflexology improves sleep quality and reduces restless legs syndrome in female patients with multiple sclerosis The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 42/100 (low).
The Claim
Foot reflexology improves sleep quality and reduces restless legs syndrome in female patients with multiple sclerosis
This conclusion is most relevant to: 64 female patients with multiple sclerosis.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Effect of Foot Reflexology on Restless Legs Syndrome and Sleep Quality in Female Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial. (Neurology research international, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Application of pressure to specific reflexology points on the feet
- ▸Stimulation of neural pathways and potential release of endorphins
- ▸Improved circulation and relaxation response
- ▸Reduction in RLS symptoms and enhancement of sleep quality
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸64 female patients with multiple sclerosis
Recommended Dose
26 minutes per session, 3 times per week for 4 weeks
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Only female patients were included, limiting generalizability to male MS patients
- ▸The study relied on self-reported outcomes, which may be subject to bias
- ▸No blinding of patients was possible due to the nature of the intervention, though a sham group was used
Frequently Asked Questions
What is foot reflexology and how is it performed in this study?▼
Foot reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet believed to correspond to body organs. In this study, it was performed for 26 minutes per session, three times a week for 4 weeks, by a trained researcher and later by patients at home.
Did the sham group show any improvement in sleep quality?▼
No, the sham group (which received nonspecific foot massage without pressure on reflexology points) showed no significant change in sleep quality (p = 0.30).
How long did the benefits of foot reflexology last?▼
Significant improvements in both sleep quality and restless legs syndrome were observed immediately after the intervention and were maintained at the 1-month follow-up.
Is foot reflexology recommended for all MS patients with restless legs syndrome?▼
The study suggests it is effective in female MS patients, but further research is needed to confirm efficacy in male patients and broader populations.
References
- 1.Harandi F, Tirgari B, Jahani Y, Tajadini H. “Effect of Foot Reflexology on Restless Legs Syndrome and Sleep Quality in Female Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial..” Neurology research international, 2026. PMID: 42466006 DOI: 10.1155/nri/5579094