Reflexology Treatments & Nutrition

Reflexology is an ancient belief that certain pressure points on your feet and hands can trigger a physical change in your body. According to Reflexology-Research.com, the practice has been used since ancient times in Egypt, China and Japan. Some reflexology practitioners believe that proper nutrition can be used to heal physical sickness in conjunction with reflexology.

Reflexology

Reflexology has been practiced for centuries in one form or another. The term was created in 1917 by a Russian researcher, Vladimir Bekterev. Bekterev believed that an organ became ill because it received a wrong message from the brain. By manipulating certain pressure points, a reflex therapist can interrupt the brain's messages, altering any negative responses in the body. In the 1940s, reflexology became a practice in the United States. According to the Reflexology Association of America, reflexology is now recognized as a profession in 33 states.

Reflexology Treatments

A reflexology map or chart provides an image of both hands and feet. The chart displays the pressure points in the hands and feet and where they correspond to the rest of the body. For instance, using a chart you can find the area on your hand related to liver function. Reflexology practitioners believe that by applying pressure to a specific area of your hand or foot, you can treat other parts of your body. Most reflexology treatment is a precise foot or hand massage without massage oil.

Reflexology and Nutrition

Although there is no specific diet required when you are receiving reflexology treatments, nutrition can play a role in treatment. Some reflex therapists also assess nutrition as an important component of health and disease. Because eating can be a response to stress and anxiety, reflexology is used to calm stress and promote better health. Many reflex therapists recommend that you get as much of your diet as possible from whole foods to eliminate toxins from your diet. Reflexology also promotes drinking plenty of water and eating a well-balanced diet.

Reflexology Benefits

Although the research for reflexology is limited, a number of potential health benefits have been linked to the practice. Reflex therapists report that reflexology can help treat arthritis, improve circulation, relieve pain and treat allergies, migraines, menopause, fertility problems and insomnia. Some research suggests that reflexology may be helpful in treating some diseases; a placebo effect is often a better explanation, according to the American Cancer Society. A review of the research published in the "Journal of Advanced Nursing" found that reflexology has no specific effect on any conditions other than urinary symptoms related to multiple sclerosis.