Effects of Foot Reflexology Massage in Migraine

Last updated: April 14, 2026
Sponsor: Karabuk University
Overall Status: Completed

Phase

N/A

Condition

Oral Facial Pain

Chronic Pain

Pain

Treatment

Reflexology Massage

Clinical Study ID

NCT07028684
KBU-FTR-2025-2178
  • Ages 18-45
  • Female

Study Summary

Migraine is a primary headache type that usually manifests itself with unilateral, moderate to severe throbbing headaches, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The prevalence and impact of headaches are more pronounced, especially among women, and this condition is among the top five causes of disability in women. Reflexology, one of the complementary treatment methods, is an alternative medical practice that produces beneficial effects on the human body by applying pressure to specific points or areas called "reflex areas" on the feet, hands, and ears.The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology massage on pain, sleep, and quality of life in women with migraine. All patients included in this study will be evaluated with the following tests and scales three times: before, after, and 2 weeks after the end of the 5-week (10 sessions in total) treatment. After the initial evaluations of the study, migraine patients will be divided into 2 groups using a simple random sampling method in the computer randomization program. The first group will receive a foot reflexology massage. The second group will be the control group.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Being between the ages of 18-45

  • Being diagnosed with migraine by a neurologist according to the InternationalHeadache Society (IHS) criteria

  • Volunteering to participate in the study

  • Being able to read and write

  • Not having entered menopause

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Any neurological or musculoskeletal disease other than migraine

  • History of cervical or cranial surgery

  • Irritation or ulceration on the skin area to be reflexologized

  • Receiving non-drug migraine treatment (acupuncture, dry needle, etc.)

  • Those who have received physiotherapy at least 6 months ago

  • Presence of diabetic foot

  • Open wounds on the foot

  • Pregnant individuals or individuals who become pregnant during the study

Study Design

Total Participants: 22
Treatment Group(s): 1
Primary Treatment: Reflexology Massage
Phase:
Study Start date:
June 01, 2025
Estimated Completion Date:
March 15, 2026

Study Description

Migraine is a primary headache type that usually manifests itself with unilateral, moderate to severe throbbing headaches, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The prevalence and impact of headaches are more pronounced, especially among women, and this condition is among the top five causes of disability in women. Reflexology, one of the complementary treatment methods, is an alternative medical practice that produces beneficial effects on the human body by applying pressure to specific points or areas called "reflex areas" on the feet, hands, and ears. Reflexology can be used as a complementary or supportive method of treatment because it is a massage form that regulates complex body functions and has relaxing and loosening effects. In studies; It has been found that foot reflexology reduces patients' pain and improves their sleep quality. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology massage on pain, sleep, and quality of life in women with migraine. All patients included in this study will be evaluated with the following tests and scales three times: before, after, and 2 weeks after the end of the 5-week (10 sessions in total) treatment. After the initial evaluations of the study, migraine patients will be divided into 2 groups using a simple random sampling method in the computer randomization program. The first group will receive a foot reflexology massage. The second group will be the control group.

Connect with a study center

  • Karabuk University

    Karabuk,
    Turkey

    Site Not Available

  • Karabuk University

    Karabük,
    Turkey (Türkiye)

    Site Not Available

  • Karabuk University

    Karabük 744562,
    Turkey (Türkiye)

    Site Not Available

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