The Philosophy
Reflexology is based on the theory that there are reflex points on the hands and feet that correspond to the rest of the body. A more esoteric explanation is that the human body is holographic in design. Every piece of the human body contains information about the entire body. Every cell contains DNA that describes the entire body and every body part will have points or patterns of points that correspond to every other part. The feet and hands are just two of the most accessible body parts for ease of treatment. Other fields of practice have claimed to find similar points on the ears, eyes, teeth and skull.
Like the use of acupuncture points, it is believed that stimulating or manipulating those reflex points can cause therapeutic changes in the corresponding organs and body systems. Additionally, reflexology is believed to be useful as a diagnostic tool. The presence of tender points or “nodules” at a reflex point is said to indicate potential disease or distress in the corresponding body part.
The Art
Reflexology treatments are sometimes thought of as being just a foot massage but the actual technique is far more involved than a simple massage. The reflexology practitioner follows a relatively structured pattern, applying pressure sequentially to a series of points on the soles of the feet, the toes, the top of the feet and the ankles. Other movements and mobilization techniques are interspersed throughout the hour-long session to provide breaks in a sometimes-intense treatment.
The treatment experience varies greatly from individual to individual and from practitioner to practitioner. Some experience the treatment as very relaxing. Others find pressure on the reflex points to be uncomfortable. The degree of pressure can be varied to individual preference. The most common response after a treatment is a sense of relaxation and calm.
The Science
The vast majority of what is written about reflexology is anecdotal or from small uncontrolled studies. There were over 3000 citations gathered on a PubMed search under “reflexology” but only one of them was a randomized clinical trial1. The study compares two groups of multiple sclerosis patients: one receiving reflexology and the other a sham treatment. The study conclusion is that the reflexology treatment provided statistically significant improvements in motor, sensory and urinary symptoms.
Reflexology treatment relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled study.
Siev-Ner I, Gamus D, Lerner-Geva L, Achiron A. Mult Scler. 2003 Aug;9(4):356-61.
CIM Practitioner
Berit Nilsson, LMT
