Reflexologia podal no tratamento da fascite plantar – revisão de literatura

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is a rheumatic disease consisting of inflammation caused by recurrent microtraumas in the plantar fascia, manifested by the presence of pain in the plantar region, especially in the early morning, and may extend throughout the day. The most appropriate treatment is the conservative one. Among the administered techniques, complementary integrative practices have been outstanding in providing comfort to the patients, pain reduction and quality of life. Foot reflexology consists of a foot massage, which according to traditional Chinese medicine, has reflex points, and when the feet are stimulated, they generate balance to the energy circulation, promoting several benefits. The aim of this review is to investigate the effectiveness of foot reflexology in the treatment of plantar fasciitis by searching national and international databases. As results, two articles were found, one being a systematic review and the other a case study which point out that foot reflexology has good results to relieve symptoms of plantar fasciitis, but it should be combined to the treatment with stretching and strengthening on the plantar flexor muscles for better results in the medium and long term.