Reflexology has been present throughout Spanish science since the last third of the nineteenth century and its importance can be seen in the works of authors such as Martín Salazar, Ramón y Cajal, Gómez Ocaña, Simarro and Turró. The most important research in Reflexology in Spain takes place a) at the Schools of Neurophysiology and Psychology in Barcelona and Madrid, b) with a group of authors specializing in pathological medicine and c) in the Military's Health Department. Pavlov's work was received in Spain with special interest. Fernández-España, who could be considered the “first Spanish Pavlovian,” emphasized Pavlov's work in a series dedicated to the study of objective psychology which was published between 1914 and 1924. Planelles was the first investigator to develop a program in Pavlovian experimentation, presenting his results in 1935. The Civil War (1936-1939) ended these and many other Spanish projects in psychology. After the war, interest in Reflexology and Pavlov's theories slowly rose again, first through psychosomatic medicine and then in the 60's because of the works of such authors as Monserrat-Esteve, Rof Carballo and Colodrón. The progressive inclusion of psychology in the Schools of Philosophy and Arts after 1968 marked the beginning of a new era.

The increasing prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is a significant health care issue in contemporary societies and researchers have identified CAM as holding potential for treating and coping with chronic illness and other conditions experienced in later life. This paper focuses upon contemporary research literature to provide a critical review of the prevalence, correlates, conditions, perceptions and communication of CAM use in later life. Evidence from recent research illustrates the substantial prevalence and complexity of CAM use amongst older people and such ‘community’ use requires all providers, regardless of their experience or perception of the worth of CAM, to at least acknowledge and enquire with their older patients about the potential use of these other medicines.

Advanced stage cancer patients experience debilitating physical symptoms as well as profound emotional and spiritual struggles. Advanced disease is accompanied by multiple changes and losses for the patient and the family. Palliative care focuses on the relief of overall suffering of patients and families, including symptom control, psychosocial support, and the meeting of spiritual needs. Music therapy and reflexology are complementary therapies that can soothe and provide comfort. When used conjointly, they provide a multifaceted experience that can aid in the reduction of anxiety, pain, and isolation; facilitate communication between patients, family members, and staff; and provide the potential for a more peaceful dying experience for all involved. This article addresses the benefits of the combined use of music therapy and reflexology. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the application and benefits of this dual approach for patients and their families regarding adjustment to the end of life in the presence of anxiety and cognitive impairment.

A substantial proportion of the symptoms of ill health presented in primary care settings are medically unexplained. Low level physical and mental suboptimal functioning, such as tiredness and nagging psychological discomfort are common features of workload and are rarely amenable to immediate and straightforward treatment and cure. Complementary and alternatives medicines (CAMs), with their frequent focus on overcoming an apparently restrictive mind/body dualism, are being increasingly drawn on to manage such symptoms. reflexology is a CAM that, it is claimed, is able to induce improved physical and mental health and overall well-being. To date, there has been little research which addresses this claim. A single blind trial was conducted to test the effectiveness of reflexology in improving levels of tiredness, overall health and perceived well-being in a sample of 34 patients with chronic irritable bowel syndrome currently under the care of a general practitioner, following diagnosis by a gastroenterologist. Both reflexology and nonreflexology (control) groups were found to produce a moderate improvement in symptoms, but there was no statistically or clinically significant difference in outcome between the groups. Thus, no specific benefit of using reflexology was found. On the basis of this study, there is no evidence for the use of reflexology as a means of enhancing patient well-being in primary care. However, the research was conducted with one quite specific patient group. Considerably more research is needed with a range of patient groups and outcome measures before definitive conclusions can be reached.