| Interventions |
1. Experimental reflexology group 2. Control group The reflexology experimental group were given six 30 minute treatment sessions over an eight week period conducted as closely as possible in line with 'normal practice'. The length of the sessions and the total number of those sessions was agreed with the lead reflexologist. The treatment consisted of an initial 'whole foot' massage followed by localised attention to the areas of the foot considered - within reflexology theory - to be related to IBS. The indistinguishable control group was given the same number of contact sessions as the experimental group and those sessions were carried out in exactly the same way, following the same procedures, with the single exception that a non-reflexology foot massage was given. According to reflexology theory this should have no curative effect as no stimulation of healing has occurred. |