Foot spas offer various pampering treatments, like foot soaks, massages and pedicures. Some treatments are said to have health benefits, in addition to being relaxing. Reflexology is one such foot treatment, since it incorporates principles based on theories similar to acupuncture and acupressure, according to the University of Minnesota. This treatment does not treat specific diseases, but it may provide benefits to some body systems.
Definition
Reflexology is a hands-on treatment performed at many places, including massage clinics and foot spas, by trained practitioners. This treatment is based on the idea that different areas of your feet correspond to all the organs in your body. Manipulating the related areas and applying pressure to certain spots is said to be good for those organs, the University of Minnesota notes. The treatment is performed on both feet because the right foot is said to correspond to the right side of your body, while the left foot affects the left side.
Requirements
Foot spas must abide by any state or local laws that require reflexologists to be licensed or certified. Some states require licensure and spell out training standards for these therapists, while others do not regulate reflexology at all. Reflexologists can get certified by independent bodies such as the American Reflexology Certification Board or the Reflexology Certification Board, each of which has its own requirements. Ask any foot spa you intent to use whether its reflexologists are licensed or certified and who provided the certification before you make an appointment.
Treatments
Reflexology is easily performed at foot spas with limited space because it does not require disrobing like more extensive hands-on treatments. The reflexologist only needs access to your feet. Sessions may last anywhere from 15 minutes up to an hour or more, with a cost roughly equivalent to a regular massage. The reflexologist can perform a general treatment or focus on a specific problem area at your request. The treatment feels much like a regular foot massage, but with the addition of concentrated pressure at certain points. General spas often offer reflexology combined with other treatments such as Swedish massage, while foot spas are more limited in their offerings.
Considerations
Reflexology is not scientifically proven to have specific health benefits and may not be any more effective than regular foot massages, according to the American Cancer Society, although it seems to have some placebo effect. The treatment is not harmful, but you should compare the price of reflexology sessions to normal foot massages when you visit a foot spa. Opt for the regular massage if the reflexology costs significantly more, since you will likely get the same effects.
Member Comments