Reflexology
Reflexology is based on the principle that the anatomy of the body is reflected in miniature reflex zones on the head, ears, hands and feet. The foot is the most common type of reflexology treatment. The treatment involves the application of pressure over the foot to initiate healing in the body, and can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Both feet are worked on during the course of a full session.
Ancient pictographs display Egyptians massaging their feet, while old texts and illustrations show that the Chinese, Japanese, and Indian people all worked on their feet to combat illness. The current theory of linking various parts of the foot with specific part of the body was developed in the early 1900s, by Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, who called the system "zone therapy". In the 1930s, Eunice Ingham, a nurse and physiotherapist who used zone therapy, refined the system. Eunice identified sensitive areas she called "reflex points", and created a map of the body as represented on the feet.
In a typical session, the reflexologists will begin by gently massaging your feet. Then, s/he will begin applying pressure to the reflex points thought to correspond to your health problems. The reflexologists will treat one foot first, then the other. No instruments are required, but some practitioners use devices such as rubber balls to apply some of the pressure. If you have foot problems, such as severe calluses or corns, the therapist may refer you to a podiatrist for treatment since reflexologists do not treat foot disorders. Sessions typically last from thirty to sixety minutes.
Some reflexologists claim that manipulation of the feet reduces the amount of lactic acid in the tissues and releases tiny calcium crystals that accumulate in the nerve endings of the feet. This restores the free flow of energy from the feet to the corresponding organs. Others speculate that pressure on the reflex points may trigger the release of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that naturally block pain. Some practitioners claim that the reflexology leads to a state of relaxation that opens the blood vessels and improves circulation. Still others credit a detoxifying effect, suggesting that the manipulation dissolves crystals of uric acid that settle in the feet.
Although some people claim that reflexology can help control seizures, there have been no major clinical trials to verify the effectiveness of reflexology. It is recommended, even by its advocates, that reflexology be used only as an adjunct to conventional therapy.
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