Traditional Reflexology Massage

Chinese and Japanese acupressure and acupuncture stimulate points throughout the body to aid in overall health and prevention and treatment of disease. Reflexology utilizes points on the hands, feet and ears with the same intention. With a history of thousands of years, reflexology continues to be used worldwide as a noninvasive treatment method.

History

Applying pressure to the feet and hands to benefit the entire body has a long history. Egyptian hieroglyphics and ancient Chinese and Japanese medicine used hand, foot and ear pressure to treat ailments and prevent disease. Dr. William Fitzgerald began using pressure on the ears and hands to anesthetize patients for surgery during the late 1800s. These points were depicted by Eunice Ingham in the early-to-mid 1900s when she mapped the reflexes on the feet. Her books published in 1938 and 1945, "Stories the Feet Can Tell," and "Stories the Feet Have Told," elaborated on theories and techniques of reflexology.

Zone Therapy

Zone therapy was developed by Fitzgerald and remains a part of reflexology theory and practice, as of 2011. He theorized that the body can be divided into zones, much like the energy meridians of Chinese and Japanese medicine. These zones run the length of the body and end in the hands and feet. Pressure applied to the hands and feet can alleviate pain and promote healing anywhere in the zone. For instance, applying pressure to the outer ankle area can relieve pain in the hip along the fifth zone.

Reflexology

Reflexology, as it is practiced in 2011, expands on Fitzgerald's zone therapy. It works from the theory that the entire body can be mapped on the feet and hands. Like zone therapy, pressure applied to the feet and hands on specific reflex areas can affect corresponding areas of the body. For example, the tips of the toes correlate to the head, and the thinner part of the toes are associated with the neck. Headaches may be relieved by working the toes and any associated areas, depending on the cause of the headache.

What to Expect

The reflexologist will consult with you to learn if you have any medical conditions or ailments and the results you are hoping to get from your treatment. Reflexology is conducted clothed, with work being done primarily on the feet. During the session, you will be reclined on a chair or lying on a massage table. The reflexologist will use techniques to help you relax and work the reflexes specific to your aliment, often working the entire foot to affect the whole body. You will be asked to give feedback during the session as to your comfort and any sore areas. Communicate with your reflexologist about any discomfort or sensations, as this will guide the work.