About Reflexology For Hands And Feet

The practice of reflexology revolves around the theory that reflex points in the hands and feet correspond to certain organs and areas of the body.
Reflexologists chart and map these areas. For example, the top of the shoulder is related to the base of the pinky, and the liver corresponds to the center of your right palm, according to reflexologists Barbara and Kevin Kunz.

Function

Tenderness in an area of the hand or foot can indicate a malady afflicting the body part with which that area is aligned.
Reflexologists can take the information they've gained through this type of diagnosis and use it to treat the ailment in question. By using specific techniques to stimulate the reflex points in the hands and feet, reflexologists believe they can achieve progress toward restoring the patient to health.

History

The practice of reflexology in America began in the early 1900s with a physician, William Fitzgerald, who mapped the body into 10 zones and correlated each zone with a specific area of the foot. Fitzgerald called his theory "zone therapy."
A nurse named Eunice Ingham expanded on Fitzgerald's maps in the 1930s and changed the name of the practice to "reflexology."
Ancient predecessors of today's reflexologists practiced foot massage techniques as far back as 1274 at the Temple of Amon at Karnac. Hieroglyphics, painted there to celebrate the exploits of Ramses II, included a depiction of soldiers receiving foot therapy.

Considerations

The American Cancer Society says legal regulation of reflexology is not consistent as of 2010, so anyone can call himself a reflexologist, as there are no nationally established standards.
Treatment techniques can vary from practitioner to practitioner. According to the Ohio State Medical Center, some patients describe reflexology treatments as relaxing, while others find the application of pressure to be uncomfortable. The lack of established protocols for the practice of reflexology could lead to variances in the type of treatment you receive.

Benefits

Reflexologists Barbara and Kevin Kunz tout their art as being a stress buster that builds physical awareness and aids in healthy aging. They say reflexology can improve the functioning of every part of the human body and that it is effective in strengthening the immune system, aiding in digestion and increasing alpha brain waves, which are related to relaxation.

Expert Insight

The website Quackwatch published a scathing critique of reflexology by Dr. Stephen Barrett in which he refers to the theories of reflexology as "absurd" and notes that the treatment could distract patients from seeking legitimate care for serious conditions.
The American Cancer Society takes a gentler view on reflexology, noting its effectiveness in treating pain in cancer patients as well as in alleviating menopausal side effects.