Foot Reflexology & Bloating

Bloating is a feeling of tightness and fullness in the abdomen that may occur due to constipation, overeating, air swallowing, irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance. It may be accompanied by visible swelling of the abdomen, stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. The condition may subside by itself. More severe cases may require treatment, which depends on the underlying cause. The role of alternative therapies such as reflexology in treating bloating is controversial.

Foot Reflexology

Foot reflexology is a type of alternative therapy that uses pressure on specific areas of the foot. Practitioners believe this promotes the flow of vital energy to treat a variety of conditions. Some reflexology techniques may involve pressing the hands or ears instead of the feet. The technique is based on the theory that your feet contain reflex points that are connected to the organs in your body, and stimulating these reflex points will help promote well-being of these organs. It has been used to treat several conditions, including headache, back pain, asthma, diabetes and upset stomach.

Bloating

Reflexology may help to treat constipation in women, according to a study published in the February 2010 issue of the journal “Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice.” This may, in turn, help to treat the bloating associated with constipation. Sonia Jones, author of the book “Simply Reflexology” also states that foot reflexology will help treat bloating and other digestive symptoms associated with poor diet. However, another study in the January 2006 issue of the journal “Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics” found no difference in bloating and constipation in patients receiving foot reflexology and the placebo. BBC News also reported in December 2001 that reflexology does not help patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

Side Effects

Foot reflexology is generally safe to use, although excessive pressure by your therapist may lead to bruising. Also, reflexology is a stressor and is not right for everyone. Individuals with cancer and inflammatory disorders such as arthritis should use reflexology only after consulting their doctor.

Precautions

Check with your doctor to make sure that reflexology is right for you. Also, check for the credentials of your therapist and look for a certification from a reliable agency such as the American Reflexology Certification Board. Inform the therapist about any pre-existing conditions and other medications you might be taking.

Foot Reflexology & Bloating