Reflexology is a treatment that uses specific points on the hands or feet to relieve pain and discomfort located elsewhere in the body, explains the American Cancer Society. Although reflexology is most often associated with the feet, reflex points in the hands may be useful in increasing the effectiveness of other forms of treatment, or in treating common ailments such as indigestion, headaches, muscular aches and the flu, according to HandResearch.com.
Definition and History
Also known as reflex zone therapy, reflexology is based on the idea that points in the hands and feet are directly connected to various internal organs, glands and bodily functions. Reflexology teaches that stimulation of specific reflex points in the hands and feet can promote the ideal flow of energy along pathways in the body known as reflex zones.
The Zone theory, first developed by Dr. William Fitzgerald in the early 1900s, states that the body contains 10 reflex zones, which run from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet, notes AltMD.com.
Uses
AltMD reports that hand reflexology can help relax patients in preparation for foot reflexology or other treatments, helping to maximize the benefits from the entire session. Hand reflexology may also be a necessity when treating a patient with an injured or missing foot, and is particularly helpful for patients who may not be comfortable with having their feet handled.
Training in reflexology may not include hand therapy, so when looking for a professionally trained reflexologist, be sure to inquire about the nature of his or her certification.
Benefits
According to the Ontario College of Relexology, hand reflexology can relieve stress, enhance circulation, regulate the metabolism and enhance the effectiveness of other healing arts.
AltMD reports that reflex points in the hands can help treat pain, discomfort and swelling in the feet.
The American Cancer Society suggests that reflexology may be useful for reducing pain and anxiety in some patients, but scientific evidence is lacking to support reflexology as a treatment for any particular disease.
Reflex Points in the Hands
The hand contains seven different reflex sections that correspond to different areas of the body. The thumbs and the fingers relate to the head and neck area. The body of the hand corresponds to the middle abdomen.
The lower areas of the abdomen can be treated using the wrist bones, and parts of the wrist also relate to the reproductive organs. The spinal column can be accessed using the outside edge of the thumb. The little finger of each hand corresponds to the arms, and the back of the hand relates to the lungs and lymphatic system, according to AltMD.
Techniques
Hand reflexology is easy to use as a 10-minute self treatment. Begin by pinching the fingertips and thumb of your right hand. Apply firm pressure, but do not pinch hard enough to cause pain. Hold each finger for a few seconds and then repeat on the left hand.
Follow by pinching the sides of your fingertips, rubbing each finger vigorously, pulling firmly on each finger and pinching the webs between each finger. Massage the tops of your hands, the inner wrists and the palms of your hands. Finish by pressing your thumb firmly into the center of your palm, advises HandResearch.com.
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