Reflexology For Sweaty Feet

Reflexology, also referred to as zone therapy, is a treatment in which the nerve endings in the hands, ears and feet are stimulated to produce positive changes in the rest of the body. According to the Internet Health Library, advocates of reflexology believe each point that is stimulated corresponds to a point in the body, and regular massage can promote good health.

Function

Pressure applied to certain points on the feet send a message to the ganglia, a group of neurons outside the spinal cord, according to the Universal College of Reflexology. These responses are then passed on to the appropriate muscle in order for it to take action. While this is one theory of how reflexology works, other theories include reflexology is relaxing and therefore therapeutic and our bodies have an internal energy that is unblocked and allowed to flow smoothly because of reflexology manipulations.

Causes

Excessive sweating on the hands, feet and armpits is also known as hyperhidrosis and some scientists believe it is a genetic condition, according to the Center for Hyperhidrosis. When hyperhidrosis occurs on the soles of the feet, it is called plantar hyperhidrosis and can result in malodorous feet as well as discomfort, if closed shoes have to be worn. Hyperhidrosis can also be caused by several other factors, including an overactive thyroid gland, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and liver disease. If you have sweaty feet, get a professional medical opinion as to the cause of this condition before you begin any treatment.

Reflexology for Sweaty Feet

The corresponding zone to treat a thyroid dysfunction is under the base of your big toe. This is the first area that might be simulated gently to reduce sweaty feet. On your hands, it is at the base of your thumb, according to the website Reflexology Charts. Should you have sweaty feet as a result of some other illness, the reflexologist will stimulate the corresponding zone. The gentle, relaxed foot, hand or ear massage can also contribute to relaxing the mind and reducing stress, another possible reason for sweaty feet.

Does Reflexology Work?

The jury is still out as to whether Reflexology actually works. Mark Bricklin, executive editor of Prevention magazine, is a skeptic. According to Bricklin, he's heard of some doctors achieving success using reflexology, but the numbers are small, and the result might just be a relaxing foot massage. However, others disagree. In a study done in Northern Ireland in 2008, the results were that 80 percent of patients who underwent reflexology treatments showed an improvement in their conditions and a lowered pain level threshold. It's hard to conclusively say that reflexology works, but as with any massage, it might aid healing through stress reduction and induce a sense of well-being.

Other Ways to Control Sweaty Feet

While reflexology might help prevent sweaty feet, as with any traditional treatment, the results might take a while to appear. In the meantime, you can take measures to control the odor and discomfort of sweaty feet by washing your feet in the morning and evening with an anti-bacterial soap. Use a clean, dry towel to dry the feet. Ensure that you dry between the toes, dusting talcum powder over your feet to keep them dry, and change your socks frequently.