Foot Reflexology

Foot reflexology is a system of therapeutic healing wherein the thumb or fingers are used to apply pressure on certain points on the feet. It is based on the idea that there are points on the feet, also referred to as zones, that can be manipulated by applying pressure, which results in relieving ailments. Foot reflexology also helps in improving the blood and lymph circulation in the body, is relaxing, and is conducive to a feeling of rejuvenation and health.

A Peek into the Origins of Foot Reflexology

The concept of foot reflexology is not new, having been practiced in ancient cultures like India, Egypt, and China since ages. It was the ear, nose and throat specialist, Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, who was the first one to introduce it in the United States in 1915 as ‘zone therapy’. His theory was that certain parts of the feet were related to organs and other areas of the body, and when pressure was applied on them, energy pathways were created, thus bringing about healing in the corresponding parts of the body. Later, in the 1930s, Eunice Ingram, an American physiotherapist, developed the ‘zone theory’ further by developing the techniques as well as mapping the foot with the various points and their corresponding body parts, thus creating the modern system of foot reflexology. Foot reflexology nowadays has become a sought after form of therapy because it is non-invasive, natural, provides a number of benefits, and is deeply relaxing.

How does Foot Reflexology Work?

The basic theory that underlies foot reflexology is that there are various so-called reflex points on the feet (and hands) that correlate with various glands, organs, and other parts of the body. For instance, the head is reflected on the tips of the toes, the ball of the foot corresponds with the chest and heart, the arch of the foot corresponds with the kidney, pancreas, and liver, the heel corresponds with the intestines and lower back, and so on. And when pressure is applied with the thumb, fingers, or even the hand on these points or parts of the foot, it results in relaxation and relief of the symptoms felt in the corresponding gland, organ, or part of the body.

It is believed that foot reflexology works by working the nerve endings where the pressure is applied. There are about 7,500 nerve endings on each foot, which send signals to the brain. Plus, there are about 800 meters of lymph, nerves, and blood vessels, 3 arches, 50 ligaments, 19 muscles, and 26 bones – all of which are worked during a foot reflexology session t relieve the accumulated stress. Medical science accepts the fact that many of the diseases and ailments that afflict us today are related to stress.

Many people are under the misconception that foot reflexology is a massage; however, it is quite different. While foot reflexology works deeply on the nerve endings, a massage is more superficial, working the soft tissue, skin and muscles. It is thought that the pressure that is applied may activate signals, which results in releasing neurochemicals like endorphins which help in reducing stress and pain or by balancing the nervous system.

What are the Benefits of Foot Reflexology?

Foot reflexology has been found to be very effective in relieving stress as well as stress-related problems, including: back pain; digestive disorders, like constipation; menstrual problems, like PMS; injuries caused due to sports; hormonal imbalances; insomnia; arthritis; tension headaches.

Foot reflexology also induces relaxation, alleviates pain, improves circulation, relieves tired feet, and promotes overall well being. It is also used for palliative care after an operation. According to a study it has been found that foot reflexology is used as a complementary therapy by one-third of patients afflicted with cancer. Foot reflexology is advised as a complementary method of healing, and should not be used instead of medical treatment.