Reflexology is more than just a foot rub; it involves application of pressure to certain zones on the feet, hands and head to address a patient’s symptoms or assist in his diagnosis. Reflexology may reduce stress, which the American Medical Association has said may cause up to 85 percent of illnesses. Modern reflexology has been practiced in the United States for since the early 1900s.
History
Reflexology may date to the ancient Egyptians, and reflexology-like practices have been used by cultures around the world since then, according to the Reflexology Association of America. Zone theory was pioneered in the early 20th century by William Fitzgerald, an American doctor. Other early founders of modern reflexology practice include Dr. Joe Shelby Riley and physical therapist Eunice Ingham.
Zone Theory
According to the theory first developed by Fitzgerald in the early 1900s, the human body can be divided into 10 zones. There are nerve endings in the head, hands and feet for each those zones. By applying pressure to spots on the toes, fingers or the head, you can affect other parts of the body in the same zone.
Reflexology Chart
Most reflexology charts project a diagram of the human body onto the soles of the feet. The chart is a map to show which areas of the feet are connected to other parts of the body. The map identifies the sites where pressure is to be applied.
Reflexology Sessions
For a reflexology session, the patient usually lies down or reclines. The practitioner sits at the feet and uses massage and reflexology techniques. Pressure is often applied to the entire foot, using finger walking, squeezing, direct pressure and other techniques.
Chinese Reflexology
In Chinese medicine, the practice of reflexology is related to the belief that there are energy pathways in the body, carrying the force of life. Under this belief, illness results when the pathways are blocked. Because most of the pathways begin or end in the feet, reflexology-like practices are used to help clear the blockage.
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