Reflexology specific guidance for using the template for the intervention description and replication (TIDieR): A delphi study

Abstract

Introduction

Reflexology is a holistic, complementary therapy, carried out on the feet, hands, ears, or face. There is no single accepted definition of reflexology, as it encompasses various practices, making it important that research studies articulate exactly what the reflexology intervention entailed.

This study sought to produce reflexology-specific guidance for researchers and practitioners, for use with the Template for the Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist, to improve the quality of the documentation of reflexology interventions within the research literature.

Method

This study used the TIDieR checklist as a framework for a three-round Delphi process to gain agreement on what information authors should consider including in their study report to support replication of their intervention. Following the Delphi process two online consolidation meetings were held to agree the wording and examples for the guidance document.

Results

Guidance based on the unique considerations of reflexology interventions was developed for use with the TIDieR checklist.

A diverse group of 43 experts from Europe, North America, Asia, and Australasia, including 40 reflexologists, 9 of whom were also study authors, and 2 methodological specialists contributed to the guidance.

Each Delphi round was completed by 39 to 42 (91 % to 98 %) of the 43 panel members, and 16 (37 %) participated in the consolidation meetings. Consensus was reached on 46 items via the Delphi rounds (36 to be included in the guidance and 10 to be excluded); 38 items failed to reach consensus. The consolidation meetings informed the final wording of the guidance document, covering all the 12 TIDieR domains.

Conclusion

The reflexology-specific guidance strongly advocates for the utilisation of the TIDieR checklist, with elaboration tailored for reflexology as used in various contexts internationally. By serving as a reporting guide for reflexology intervention studies, this tool has the capacity to improve the reporting of reflexology intervention studies, thereby facilitating replicability and promoting greater transparency within the field of reflexology.