Reflexology and the practice of using foot detox patches originate from Asian medicinal treatments and focus on the foot as a means to relieve bodily ailments. Though often used in conjunction, foot detox patches and reflexology do not treat the same health issues. Consult with a medical or naturopathic physician before engaging in any form of detox treatment, foot patches included.
Detox Foot Patches
Many promising claims are made by foot detox manufacturing companies. The concept of the detox foot patch is as follows: adhere a patch to the sole of your feet at bed time. The patch draws toxins out of your body while you sleep. This rids your body of the harmful substances you have been storing from diet and environmental pollution. Foot detox patches are not intended for drug/alcohol detox treatment. Foot detox patches are available at most pharmacies and online stores.
Effectiveness of Detox Foot Patches
The Mayo Clinic's Dr. Gibson reports that there are no scientific conclusions that support the claims made by manufacturers regarding the treatment of detox foot patches. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has accused some manufacturers with false advertising such as helping to treat depression, high blood pressure or diet goals. Being an unregulated, alternative medicinal product from a foreign culture leaves you, the consumer, to decide if this is a safe treatment.
Reflexology
CAM Therapy (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) is a body-based practice that manipulates parts of the patient's body. Reflexology is one such example, as are massage and chiropractic care. The theory of reflexology is that your feet have "foot-reflex zones" that correspond to parts of your body. The practitioner applies pressure onto certain zones that correlate to body parts that cause pain or concern. Reflexology is also called "energy work" because of the belief that it helps address reflex zones that are out of balance.
Uses of Reflexology
Reflexology is not used as a form of foot massage, though the pressure may feel as such. Reflexology practitioners typically believe that the foot reflex zones provide an opportunity to access your entire body's energy. Through the redirection of energy, they believe congestion, pain and illness can be relieved. Reflexology is also known for helping improve circulation. Pregnant women often find labor pain relief through reflexology.
Cautions for Treatment
Despite its popularity, it should be noted that reflexology practitioners are not required to pursue any licensing procedures. This means there is no state or national regulation of their practice. There is, however, a national certificate that can be awarded that suggests some merit. Detox foot patches are also not regulated by health or United States government agencies and should be used with caution and consultation.
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