Reflexology is an ancient healing practice based on the principle that applying pressure to certain points on the feet, hands and ears can provide benefits to corresponding parts of the body. It is thought to work by stimulating nerve endings that can affect other areas through energy pathways or by releasing chemicals like endorphins. A typical reflexology session involves assessing the feet and then applying firm pressure to different points while the client relaxes. Common uses of reflexology include reducing stress, improving circulation, relieving pain and promoting overall wellness and healing in the body. While reflexology is popular as a complementary therapy, more scientific evidence is still needed to support some of its bolder health claims.

1. REFLEXOLOGY
By: Dr.Yasar Shah Page 1
REFLEXOLOGY:
Reflexology is also known as Zone therapy, Spot Therapy, Reflex Therapy and Compression
Massage.
The Reflexology Association of Canada defines reflexology as:
"A natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears and
their referral areas within zone related areas, which correspond to every part, gland and organ of
the body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes without the use of tools, crèmes or
lotions, the feet being the primary area of application, reflexology relieves tension, improves
circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.
History
Reflexology is an ancient art that can be dated back as far as 2300 BC Egypt where there were
pictures found in the Physician’s Tomb showing this procedure. Similar practices have been
documented in the histories of China and India.
Reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872–
1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that
applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body.
Reflexology was modified in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham (1889–1974), a nurse
and physiotherapist. Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and
mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet renaming "zone therapy" to reflexology.
Ingham's procedure and related practices developed by Laura Norman are used by modern
reflexologists.
Theory
The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands
that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.
For example:
 the tips of the toes reflect the head
 the heart and chest are around the ball of the foot
 the liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot
 low back and intestines are towards the heel

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By: Dr.Yasar Shah Page 2
Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the
corresponding organs through energetic pathways. A scientific explanation is that the pressure
may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that
reduce pain and stress.
Reflexologists use foot charts to guide them as they apply pressure to specific areas. Sometimes
these practitioners use items, such as rubber balls, rubber bands and sticks of wood, to assist in
their work. Practitioners of reflexology include chiropractors, physical therapists and massage
therapists, among others.
Through applying these techniques to certain areas of the feet reflexology causes responses
(relaxation) breaking up patterns of stress in corresponding parts of the body. Relaxation is the
first step to the body’s return to a state of equilibrium, or homeostasis, in which circulation can
flow, unimpeded to supply nutrients and oxygen to the cells. With this restoration of
homeostasis, the body’s organs and muscles may then return to a normal state of function.
Indications:
Reflexology can be used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, such as
 Stress and stress-related conditions
 Tension headaches
 Digestive disorders
 Arthritis
 Insomnia
 Hormonal imbalances
 Sports injuries
 Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
 Digestive problems, such as constipation
 Back pain

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By: Dr.Yasar Shah Page 3
Some Reflexologists claim that reflexology can also treat asthma, diabetes and cancer. However,
scientific evidence is lacking to support these claims.
Reflexology is a popular alternative therapy. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation,
reduces pain, soothes tired feet, and encourages overall healing.
Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer
Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary
therapy.
Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical
treatment.
Reflexology session:
A typical treatment is 45 minutes to 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your
health and lifestyle.
The reflexologist will assess the feet and then stimulates various points to identify areas of
tenderness or tension.
The reflexologist then uses brisk movements to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied from
the toes to the heel according to your comfort
Feelings after session:
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. They may even feel sleepy.
Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is
considered to be part of the healing process.
Precautions
In case of certain conditions like foot ulcers, injury, or blood vessel disease such as blood clots
and Pregnancy consultation with a doctor before having reflexology is necessary.