Foot reflexology is an alternative medicine that involves placing pressure on the feet to treat other areas in the body. According to the principles of reflexology, points on the body that produce pain when palpated, often referred to as hot spots, can indicate a state of disease in the body. Hot spots can also refer to areas on the foot that are actually warm to the touch. Consult your doctor before pursuing foot reflexology.
Foot Reflexology
Foot reflexology is a subset of reflexology, which originated in Egypt several thousand years ago, according to the International Institute of Reflexology. In foot reflexology, the foot is divided into zones that correspond to other parts of the body. For example, the bottom of the big toe corresponds to the head or brain. Other areas of the body, including the hands, arms, face, lower leg and ear, are used in a similar manner as the foot to treat and diagnose illness, according to the principles of reflexology.
Hot Spots
A hot spot occurs when a particular zone on the foot is painful when palpated, indicating something is wrong with that area of the foot or the corresponding organ or body part. The affected area might be hot to the touch, or it might be swollen or cold, all of which indicate something is wrong. Once a hot spot is identified, the reflexologist will massage the hot spot or the area around it until symptoms dissipate.
Treatments
The main goal of a reflexology treatment is to bring your body back in balance by regulating the flow of energy through your body. The reflexology practitioner will palpate your feet, looking for hot spots, and treat any affected areas by applying pressure with his thumb, finger or the palm of his hand, usually without a lubricant. According to the Life Balance Bodywork center in New Zealand, foot reflexology treatments can elicit a temporary cleansing reaction that takes the form of changes in bowel movements, nasal mucous buildup and altered sleep patterns.
Considerations
Consult your doctor before receiving a reflexology treatment, particularly if you have a serious medical disorder. The diagnosis obtained from a reflexology treatment should not be considered a replacement for a diagnosis by a qualified medical doctor. Discuss any medical conditions you have with your reflexology practitioner before treatment, particularly if you are on prescription medication. Reflexology is not recommended for pregnant women, people with epilepsy, and those with chronic conditions involving their veins.
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