Reflexology is a non-invasive therapy that applies alternating pressure applied to specific areas of the feet, hands and ears.
Evidence of hand and foot therapy dates back to 2330 B.C. in Egypt, China and India, and it was also widely practiced in the late 1300’s throughout Europe and amongst North American Indigenous Peoples. However, modern reflexology is based on the work Dr. William FitzGerald (1872-1942), Dr. Joe Shelby Riley (1867-1947), Eunice D. Ingham (1879-1974).
Reflexology is based on the principle that the feet, hands and ears have specific reflex points, or zones, correlated to each organ, gland and body part, forming a map of the body. When these reflex points are stimulated, they trigger physiological changes in the corresponding areas of the body. The relaxing stimulation of these reflex points is thought to enable the body’s natural healing abilities, improve blood circulation and re-establish homeostasis. While foot reflexology is the most common form of reflexology due to the increased sensitivity and accessibility of reflex points on the foot, hand and ear reflexology is often used when there is injury to the foot or leg.
One theory explaining the efficacy of reflexology is the nerve impulse theory, which suggests that pressure applied to specific reflex points on the feet stimulate the nerves connecting to corresponding body parts, activating the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS regulates body functions that are not consciously controlled, such as heart and respiratory rate, blood pressure and digestion, and it responds to stresses or changes related to one’s physical or psychological experiences. By activating the ANS, a cascade of events occurs to heal and re-establish homeostasis.
Another theory suggests that decreased blood flow due to stress, illness, or lifestyle causes waste matter to accumulate in the feet in the form of crystalline deposits. These deposits impede proper circulation, causing soreness in the area, and are associated with improper functioning or imbalance within the corresponding body part. Pressure applied to these reflex areas breaks up and removes crystalline deposits, thereby restoring circulation and health to the organ, gland, or body part.
Other theories suggest that the physiological effects of reflexology may be attributed to the release of endorphins, producing an analgesic effect and enhancing a sense of wellbeing and relaxation.
While more research is needed to explain and confirm the efficacy of reflexology, studies show that reflexology can be an effective therapy for:
- Reducing symptoms associated with cancer care
- Reducing symptoms associated with menstruation
- Reducing pain
- Decreasing blood pressure
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Reducing post-partum depression
- Increasing blood rate variability
- Enhancing sleep quality and fatigue
- Enhancing quality of life
Below you will find some of our frequently asked questions about reflexology. If your question is not answered, please feel free to contact us!
No, reflexology is not regulated in Canada. However, the Ingham and Rwo Shur methods of reflexology are internationally accepted and taught around the world. The Ingham method uses pressure and massage techniques, while the Rwo Shur method also employs tools in its practice.
Adverse effects reported include increased heart and respiration rate, local or distal pain and tenderness, fatigue, perspiration, nausea, and emotional release.
Adverse effects reported include increased heart and respiration rate, local or distal pain and tenderness, fatigue, perspiration, nausea, and emotional release.
Two types of pain or tenderness have been reported by patients during reflexology therapy, and are thought to be related to acute or chronic conditions. A sharp or pin-pricking sensation is thought to be associated with acute conditions, whereas a dull or bruised sensation is associated with past or chronic conditions. Patients should discuss any tenderness or pain experienced with their practitioner to enhance therapeutic results and decrease discomfort.
The firm pressure used during reflexology treatments is not normally ticklish. However, there may be tenderness associated with imbalances in the body. Patients should discuss any tenderness or pain experienced with their practitioner to enhance therapeutic results and decrease discomfort.
There are ten longitudinal zones from head to toe, five on each side of the body aligning with the fingers and toes.
Reflexology and acupressure are both touch therapies that apply pressure to specific points on the body believed to stimulate healing and balance of specific body areas. However, reflexology is based on the stimulation of 10 reflex zones mapped out on the feet, hands and ears, whereas acupressure focuses on acupoints along 20 energy meridians of the body.
