Effect of Reflexology on the Quality of Sleep in Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Clinical Trial Study

Background: Sleep disorders are one of the most common unpleasant symptoms in cancer patients. Foot reflexology is a systemic practice based on the stimulation of nerves in the body.  Aim: This study aimed to determine the effects of foot reflexology massage on sleep quality in patients with colorectal cancer. Method: This clinical trial study was conducted on 60 patients with colorectal cancer at the Oncology Ward of Imam Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran, who were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and equally divided into two groups of control and intervention, based on medical file numbers. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was completed for both groups before intervention. Foot reflexology massage was performed in the intervention group. The PSQI questionnaire was completed for both groups afterward. Data were analyzed using SPSS software through Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Mann-Whitney U test, Independent t-test, and Paired samples t-test. Results: There was a significant relationship between the total score of sleep quality and its dimensions in the intervention group post-intervention (P 0.05). Foot reflexology massage significantly improved sleep quality in the intervention group (P 0.05). However, there was no significant relationship between the total score of sleep quality and its dimensions in the control group before and after the intervention (P 0.05). Implications for Practice: Foot reflexology massage improves the quality of life and sleep in patients with colorectal cancer. Therefore, it is suggested that this technique be included in nursing practices as a simple, low-cost, and practical treatment.