Reflexology was introduced to America in 1913 by William Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Fitzgerald referred to the practice as zone therapy. In the 1930s and 1940s, a nurse, Eunice Ingram, further developed the system of reflexology and turned its main focus to the feet.
Extravagant medical claims have often been made for reflexology by its practitioners and proponents, but most of the claims seem to be wildly exaggerated, if not downright false, including the notion that reflexology can help you lose weight.
What is Reflexology?
The Reflexology Association of America states that "Reflexology is a non-invasive complementary modality involving the use of alternating pressure applied to the reflexes within the reflex maps of the body on the hands, feet, and outer ears."
Theory of Reflexology
According to the American Cancer Society, reflexology is based on a theory that reflex points, located in the hands and feet, are linked to organs and/or specific parts of the body. Stimulating these points also affects the associated organ/body part. In theory, such stimulation of the hands and feet can be used to treat a variety of health problems. Proponents of reflexology believe energy travels from the hands or feet to the spine and is released and that the body is detoxed by dissolving uric acid crystals.
Reflexology and Medical Claims
Advocates of reflexology claim it can help a range of conditions and illnesses, including infections, asthma, diabetes and back pain. It can stimulate the internal organs and restore bodily fluids. Supposedly, it can even reverse the aging process.
"Holistic Online" claims reflexology aids weight loss by (1) energizing the endocrine glands to promote balanced hormone secretions and thereby reduce appetite, and (2) tone the entire digestive system to allow you to gain the maximum benefits from your food.
Reflexology and Weight Loss
There is no evidence that reflexology can help you lose weight. The respected website "Quackwatch" states, "Reflexology is based on an absurd theory." The notion that pathways from the hands or feet connect to specific organs/body parts is not supported by any research findings or by any sound scientific theories.
Considerations
Even "Quackwatch" concedes that the foot massage aspect of reflexology may relieve everyday stress. The American Cancer Society cites a study that found reflexology helped promote relaxation and reduced pain for a few hours for some cancer patients.
There are no legal training requirements to become a reflexology practitioner.
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