A hiatal hernia is a relatively common condition that occurs most often in people over 50, although it can occur at any age. Hiatal hernia usually does not require treatment unless it causes troublesome symptoms. Conventional treatments such as medication or surgery generally are recommended in serious cases. Some practitioners such as certified reflexologist Maria Page believe that alternative treatments like reflexology can offer relief from your symptoms. However, there's little clinical evidence to support reflexology's benefits for treating a hiatal hernia.
About Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia is caused when your stomach pushes up through your hiatus, an opening in your diaphragm. The diaphragm separates your chest cavity from your abdomen. Although the exact causes aren't completely understood, hiatal hernia is believed to occur in part due to an inherited weakness in your hiatus, injury or significant weight gain. Hiatal hernia is most common in aging adults, smokers and people who are overweight. Usually, lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, avoiding alcohol and using stress management techniques can help manage your symptoms. Reflexology treatments may provide some relief by treating the specific reflex points associated with hiatal hernia symptoms and decreasing your overall stress level.
How Reflexology Works
Reflexology is a holistic form of treatment based on the belief that certain mental and physical complaints correspond to specific reflex points located on your feet, hands and ears. Reflex points are formed by 7,200 nerve endings that are connected to various glands, organs and other parts of your body. A reflexology treatment involves the application of light compression massage to these points to stimulate your body's natural healing response and open blocked energy pathways.
Hiatal Hernia Reflexology Points
The reflex point that corresponds to hiatal hernia is located on the solar plexus of your foot, found on the bottom of the foot. It is believed to be one of the most important reflexology points for stress relief and is often referred to as the "midbrain," as it is a point where all nerve endings from your abdominal area meet. Stimulating this point is thought to increase feelings of relaxation and release abdominal tension, possibly helping to alleviate symptoms of hiatal hernia.
Considerations
The results of a reflexology treatment can vary by person. While there's no scientific proof that reflexology treatments can help hiatal hernia, many people experience an increased sense of well-being and stress relief after a reflexology treatment. However, you should not attempt to self-diagnose symptoms of a hiatal hernia, nor rely solely on reflexology to treat your condition. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and medical treatment advice.
