Reflexology For Pain

How Does Reflexology Work?

There are a few different theories about how Reflexology works.

Traditional Chinese medicine

Within Traditional Chinese Medicine Reflexology rests on the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”), or “vital energy”, which according to this belief, qi flows through each person. Imbalances within the body are caused by qi becoming blocked which may then cause an imbalance in the body leading  to illness. The aim of Reflexology is to to keep qi flowing through the body, keeping it balanced and disease free. In Chinese Medicine, different body parts correspond with different acupressure points on the body. Reflexologists use maps of these points in the feet, hands and ears to determine where they should apply pressure

There are different theories about the exact way that reflexology works, but the main concept of all is that different areas of the feet are linked to specific body parts, and that putting pressure on one area of the foot can have an effect on the organ that it corresponds with.

Other  Reflexology Theories

There are different theories about the exact way that Reflexology works, but the main concept of all is that different areas of the feet are linked to specific body parts, and that putting pressure on one area of the foot can have an effect on the organ that it corresponds with.  Zone theory is also used to explain how Reflexology works. This theory holds that the body contains 10 vertical zones and each zone contains different body parts and corresponds to specific fingers and toes. Practitioners of  Zone Theory believe that touching these fingers and toes allows them to access every body part in a particular Zone.

A theory that dates back to the 19th century suggests that Reflexology works by stimulating the central  nervous system. It is believed by Reflexologist’s that by  pressing on areas of the feet in a calming way nerves in that area are stimulated, which sends a message to the central nervous system. This in turn helps to relax the body and has positive effects on the parasympathetic nervous system which includes slowing down breathing, heart rate, the digestive system, immune response, brain waves and more.

Another theory suggests that reflexology helps offset the way that the brain registers pain, it is thought that when the feet are touched, the relaxing sensations may help relieve stress and improve your mood, which may make you less inclined to perceive pain as deeply.

Reflexology May Help To Reduce Pain

Reflexology is believed to help with a number of health issues and is promoted as having a variety of health benefits ranging from pain relief to stress reduction to better digestion. While the practice is not well studied by conventional medicine, some research backs up these claims, however, more robust studies are needed to better determine and substantiate these possible benefits.

Reflexology can be beneficial for those suffering from both chronic and acute pain from a wide variety of sources, from migraines to sciatica. The practice can also help reduce stress, which can intensify an individuals  perception of pain. Physical ailments such as chronic back pain can increase stress, which can in turn increase the level of pain. It is believed cycle can be broken through Reflexology, which can reduce the stress which can then reduce the level of painful symptoms. Clients that suffer from problems such as arthritis or sciatica can benefit from twice monthly sessions, while those that suffer from herniated discs or osteoporosis will need to discuss their treatment plans with their Reflexology practitioner according to the severity of their pain.

Reflexology Treatments  Tailored To The Individual

Reflexologists treatments are bespoke and are tailored to the client’s  individual needs, taking into account  health concerns, lifestyle, and overall wellbeing. At the first treatment a thorough health and wellbeing consultation takes place in order  to understand the client’s health history and current concerns. This information is then used to create a personalised treatment plan that targets the specific reflex points associated with the client’s issues. The personalised nature of Reflexology is one of its greatest strengths and  it ensures that each session is tailored to the individual’s unique needs, making it a truly holistic and client-centred therapy.