Reflexology is a form of bodywork that focuses primarily on the feet.
For example:
Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways.
Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced this concept of "zone therapy" in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed this zone theory in the 1930's into what is now knows as reflexology.
A scientific explanation is that the pressure may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce pain and stress.
Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone.
Some areas may be tender or sore, and the reflexologist may spend extra time on these points. The soreness should decrease with pressure.
If you're ticklish, not to worry. The reflexologist applies firm pressure to the feet.
Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy.
Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical treatment.
You are then asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table. Otherwise you remain fully clothed.
The reflexologist will assess the feet and then stimulates various points to identify areas of tenderness or tension.
The reflexologist then uses brisk movements to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied from the toes to the heel according to your comfort.
Lotion or oil may be used.
Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.
first and let the reflexologist know.
Be sure to give the reflexologist a complete and accurate health history. If you have foot ulcers, injury, or blood vessel disease such as blood clots, consult your doctor before having reflexology.
How does it work?
The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.For example:
- the tips of the toes reflect the head
- the heart and chest are around the ball of the foot
- the liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot
- low back and intestines are towards the heel
Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways.
Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced this concept of "zone therapy" in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed this zone theory in the 1930's into what is now knows as reflexology.
A scientific explanation is that the pressure may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce pain and stress.
What will I feel?
Most people find reflexology for the most part to be very relaxing.Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone.
Some areas may be tender or sore, and the reflexologist may spend extra time on these points. The soreness should decrease with pressure.
If you're ticklish, not to worry. The reflexologist applies firm pressure to the feet.
Why do people get reflexology?
- Stress and stress-related conditions
- Tension headaches
- Digestive disorders
- Arthritis
- Insomnia
- Hormonal imbalances
- Sports injuries
- Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Digestive problems, such as constipation
- Back paince
Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy.
Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical treatment.
What is a typical reflexology treatment like
A typical treatment is 45 minutes to 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.You are then asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table. Otherwise you remain fully clothed.
The reflexologist will assess the feet and then stimulates various points to identify areas of tenderness or tension.
The reflexologist then uses brisk movements to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied from the toes to the heel according to your comfort.
Lotion or oil may be used.
How will I feel after?
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. They may even feel sleepy.Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.
Precautions
If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and let the reflexologist know.Be sure to give the reflexologist a complete and accurate health history. If you have foot ulcers, injury, or blood vessel disease such as blood clots, consult your doctor before having reflexology.
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/therapiesfromrtoz/a/Reflexology.htm
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