Reflexology: It's Origin, History, Theory & Hypothesis, Anatomy & Physiology 12 hr
(Non-Technique Continuing Education Course to know Principles, Chronology & Science: Not massage Therapy Techniques or Manipulation of Soft Tissue)
Online CE Class for Texas Massage Therapists. Texas Department of State Health Services Massage Therapy Licensed Continuing Education Provider CE 1608 Daniel Christodoss PhD EMT LMT MTI
Introduction
Reflexology, also called zone therapy, is based on the principle that each body part is represented on the hands and feet and that pressing on specific areas on the hands or feet can have therapeutic effects in other parts of the body:
- The body is divided into 10 longitudinal zones—five on each side of the body.
- Each organ or part of the body is represented on the hands and feet;
- The practitioner can diagnose abnormalities by feeling the hands or feet
- Massaging or pressing each area can stimulate the flow of energy, blood, nutrients, and nerve impulses to the corresponding body zone and thereby relieve ailments in that zone.
Reflexology (0) may be defined as a practice of applying pressure to the feet and hands using thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oils, creams, or lotions. Based on a system of zones, that reflects an image of the body on the feet and hands which in turn effects the physical changes made in the body.
Background
Using reflexology to restore the equilibrium balance by means of the foot or hand is a rather strange but totally accurate. Many people have tried reflexology to address specific medical problems with overwhelmingly successful results.
The pressure sensors in the feet and hands are all connected to various parts of the body’s systems. It functions like a network of intricate connections flowing from one to the other. By using reflexology the experienced practitioner is able to pinpoint the cause of the problem and manipulate it through a succession of pressure points on the feet or palms of the hands. All these sensors work and respond to the sometimes light but mostly painful pressures on the feet and hands.
Other deviations but equally suitable forms of reflexology are walking on a pebble path, using foot massages that simulate reflexology movements, and using rollers. Surprisingly other simple tools like a golf ball can also be used as reflexology item though they are not as good as the original natural way of the thumb and finger. Reflexology sessions ideally last for bout 30 – 45 minutes, as any longer might cause undue stress to the already pain heightened situation. The reflexologist uses pressure, stretches and movements to work thought the foot methodically. After which an assessment on the body condition may be given.
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Link to Review: Reflexology
Interactive Maps
Ideally the chart on the subject on reflexology reflects the various pressure points and their corresponding parts of the different organs, glands, structures, and systems of the anatomy. These charts can also be looked upon as maps of the intricate workings of the human body.
The Areas
Though popularly accepted as a foot and hand, palm focused style of treatment; there are also instances of having the reflexology points in the ear area. Simply put, reflexology sessions strive to open up the stubble energy channels thus directing reflexology pressure points to stimulation mode.
The ear also has various pressure points which are connected to the autonomic functions of the heart and stomach. When addressed these pressure points seem to successfully invoke stronger autonomic responses in the cardiac and gastric systems when compared to the foot or palms. The ear lobes seem to contain master sensory points which affect the eyes, pineal and pituitary glands.
According to medical research there are 10 zones or meridians that are logistically located in the human body. For instance, when pressure is applied to the big toe the benefits are seen in the brain area. Likewise, when pressure is applied to the base of the foot, it treats the neck and throat ailments. Pressure on the ball of the foot puts the connection through to the lungs and heart. The foot arch when pressured affects the adrenals, kidneys, gastrointestinal track, and bladder. The middle of the foot when pressured affects the waistline, while the ankle bone affects sexual functions.
Being supposedly easy to detect these various pressure points and their connections for treatment is not reason enough to completely discontinue an ongoing medical treatment program. Even if reflexology is considered as an added complimenting factor, a doctor’s opinion should always be sought, especially if the illness is serious.
Ideally when treating a particular illness, ailment or disease, it should not be the practice to only address the particular area affected but besides focusing on the affected area, the other parts of the body should also be looked into (0).
History
Kevin and Barbara Kunz, state:
The individual's foot reflex areas reflect the individual's overall state of tension that has resulted from a lifetime of adaption to stress. Stress cues in the feet are a roadmap to the reflexologist. Wherever it is found on a foot, it is a sign that stress and its effect have begun to accumulate in the corresponding parts of the body [1]
Reflexology was introduced into the
Not only does new Body Reflexology let you cure the worst illnesses safely and permanently, it can even work to reverse the aging process, Carter says. Say goodbye to age lines, dry skin, brown spots, blemishes -- with Body Reflexology you can actually give yourself an at-home facelift with no discomfort or disfiguring surgery [7].
Reflexology specialists have indicated that foot reflexology can cleanse the body of toxins, increase circulation, assist in weight loss, and improve the health of organs throughout the body. Others have reported success in treating earaches, anemia, bedwetting, bronchitis, convulsions in an infant, hemorrhoids, hiccups, deafness, hair loss, emphysema, prostate trouble, heart disease, overactive thyroid gland, kidney stones, liver trouble, rectal prolapse, undescended testicles, intestinal paralysis, cataracts, and hydrocephalus (a condition in which an excess of fluid surrounding the brain can cause pressure that damages the brain). Some indicated they were able to "balance energy and enhance healing elsewhere in the body." [2] One practitioner has even claimed to have lengthened a leg that was an inch shorter than the other.
Reflexologists have indicated that the majority of health problems are stress-related and that they can help people by relieving the "stress" associated with various diseases or body organs [1]. Pauline Wills, author of the Reflexology and Color Therapy Workbook, teaches that colors can be applied to "areas where an abnormality has been diagnosed but which has produced no noticeable symptoms in the physical body." She states that the application can be done by imagining colors transmitted through the practitioner's hand or by firstly, if the practitioner is sensitive to color, they can visualize it being projected or by using "reflexology crystal torch." [8].
Training, "Credentials," and Legal Status
Some nurses and massage therapists are reported
to offer reflexology as part of their licensed practice. Some courses are
accredited for continuing education for nurses and massage therapists. The most
widely publicized training source is probably the International Institute of Reflexology,
of
The Ingham Method™ of Reflexology is used primarily for relaxing tension. Doctors agree that over 75% of our health problems can be linked to nervous stress and tension. Reflexology improves nerve and blood supply, and helps nature to normalize.
The International Institute of Reflexology® wishes to make it perfectly clear that it does not purport to teach medical practice in any form; or is the Ingham Method™ of Reflexology intended to replace conventional medical treatment.
Reflexology is a unique modality in the health field. Its purpose is not to treat or diagnose for any specific medical disorder, but to promote better health and well being in the same way as an exercise or diet program. Its practice should not be compared to massage or any other kind of manipulative procedure.
A brochure for a Byers seminar at the Big Sky Somatic Institute quotes him stating:
As a Reflexologist works each reflex, it triggers a release of stress and tension in the corresponding area or body zone, as well as an overall relaxation response. The release of tension unblocks nerve impulses and improves the blood supply to all parts of the body. Because reflexology works from the inside, it also has a balancing effect on each gland, organ and body region. . . ." [10]
Prior to practicing massage therapy, reflexologists need to be licensed in their State. In some states that license massage therapists, unlicensed reflexologists might be prosecutable for practicing massage therapy without a license [11]. Sandals, shoe inserts, foot-massage devices and a steering wheel cover based on reflexology theory are being marketed.
Research Findings
A few researchers have conducted investigations on reflexology/massage therapy:
- The first
study was supervised by William T. Jarvis, Ph.D., a professor who taught
research methods to graduate students at
- In another study, 35 women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) were randomly assigned to ear, hand, and foot reflexology or to placebo therapy done on sham reflex points. The women kept a daily record of 38 possible symptoms selected from previous PMS research questionnaires. The treatment group reported significantly fewer symptoms than the placebo group, and these improvement persisted for 2 months after treatment. Many women in this group fell asleep during the 30-minute sessions and reported feeling more energetic during the next day. The placebo group reported that they thought they were receiving genuine reflexology, The authors note, however, that it was very difficult to develop a credible placebo control group, which may have been the study's flaw. Normally, reflexology is soothing, but the placebo treatment was described as "either overly light or very rough." [13] Thus the differences could have been differences in the quality of the massage being administered. The study suggests that massage may relieve PMS symptoms, but it does not validate the alleged connection between reflex points and body organs
- In another study, three experienced reflexologists examined 18 adults with one or more 6 specified conditions identified from their medical records. The data showed no significant relationship between the patient's medical diagnoses and the reflexologists' findings [14].
- Another study compared the effects of foot reflexology, simple massage, and conversation on 130 patients who had undergone abdominal gynecologic surgery under full anesthesia. The patients were asked how they felt, and data were recorded on general condition, pain intensity, movement of the bowels, urination, and sleep, from the day before the operation until until the tenth day afterward. Simple massage turned out to be a relaxing, positive experience, whereas foot reflexology had various effects, some of which were negative. The researchers concluded that foot reflexology is not effective in acute, abdominal postsurgical situations in gynecology and can occasionally trigger abdominal pain [15].
- Another study examined the popular claim that reflexology treatment benefits bronchial asthma. Ten weeks of active or simulated (placebo) reflexology were compared in a controlled trial of 40 outpatients with asthma. Objective lung function tests (peak flow morning and evening, and weekly spirometry at the clinic) did not change. Subjective scores (describing symptoms, beta2-inhalations and quality of life) and also bronchial sensitivity to histamine improved on both regimens, but no significant differences were found between groups receiving active or placebo reflexology. The researchers concluded that they had found no evidence that reflexology has a specific effect on asthma beyond placebo influence [16].
The Reflexology Association of Canada [17] 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.
Walking Reflexology
Kings
County states the following about reflexology and constructed paths in
their path for walking reflexology:
Reflexology is an
ancient healing art based on the belief that reflex points exist in the feet,
hands, and ears that correspond to all parts of the body. A recent study
shows that walking on specifically placed uneven, natural stones stimulates
acupressure points in the feet and can improve circulation and reduce overall
stress. Common in
Health and wellness are vital to the residents of
Tips for Walking a Reflexology Path
- Walk each section of the path at your own pace, following instructions and breath slowly. Your feet may be tender at first, so start with just a few steps.
- For the best acupressure effect, walk barefoot, in socks or with soft-soled shoes.
- Use the hand-railing for balance assistance and for rocking exercises to the arch of the foot. Rest on benches between walking sessions and massage areas of soreness on your feet.
- After walking the reflexology path, drink water to help flush away toxins.
The Heart
When a reflexologist treats an individual this is the primary concern. The reflexologist not only focuses on the problem but also try to ensure all the other connecting factors are addressed too. Therefore the individual facing cardiovascular problems should expect to be treated holistically as the art of reflexology demands.
As the cardiovascular system is made up of various corresponding part, which are the heart, arteries, veins, arterioles, venules and capillaries, it should be notes that the actual heart may not be the problem area. Its purpose is to carry all the nutrients and oxygen to the various parts of the body. When these are blocked for one reason or another then reflexology is a good first address. Using reflexology to reestablish the optimum flow and circulation in the system is a good non invasive way of treating the problem before it escalates to a more serious level.
Using reflexology the heart reflexes are addressed as this organ is the instrument that pumps the blood thought-out the body. Then the kidneys are the next in line to be addressed. The kidneys filter the blood constantly. The diaphragm and chest are also noted by the reflexologist because these reflexes would be worked to encourage relaxation in the chest cavity and promote deeper breathing.
Lastly the spinal area is also checked. Located on the inner edges of the feet the spine reflexes would be stimulated to promote communication through the nervous system.
Sometimes reflexology can also be used in the case of an actual heart attack, though it is not recommended if there is immediate medical response available.
Assisting Kidney Function
The kidneys in a human body have a vital part to play in maintaining the body at its optimum levels. This organ is responsible for eliminating all the waste and toxins from the body’s circulatory system. When there is a buildup of all these negative elements the problems like renal failure may occur. Therefore the cleansing method or condition the body should adopt to keep the negative buildups from occurring is by using reflexology.
About The Toxins
Reflexology is a safe and proven method of addressing
this, before it becomes a major problem for the body system. Making reflexology
a good part of the health care regiment for an individual will help avoid any
serious medical issues. Vectorial reflexology methods use very precise reflex
points developed from the anatomy to eliminate any possible kidney problems.
When starting a reflexology session the individual hand
and feet should be easily accessible. The reflexology kidney zone is in the
palm and feet
In using the reflexology exercise the intention is to create the ideal circumstance to assure the flow of energy is restored to its optimum levels again. These pressures should trigger the brain to discharge the negative direct current of regeneration in to the deficient are of the body. The intention is to help clear the interstitial space of congestive debris and bring the body to a more efficient cellular level.
Help With PMS
All women go through the time where a menstrual cycle is
part of their lives. The lucky ones breeze through this time of the month comfortably
while there are others who are not so lucky. They may experience symptoms like
bloating, sleepless nights cravings mood swings and many others.
Reflexology has been known to be able to provide some form
of relief to ease the discomfort brought on by the menstrual cycle or otherwise
referred to as PMS.
Most people who sought this method to address the
discomfort endured every month have been pleased with the results. The reflexologist
will begin the session from a holistic point of view.
With this in mind, certain reflex parts will be emphasized
as these areas are in direct correspondence to the body parts and organ being affected
by the PMS condition. The reflexologist
will spend an extra amount of time on the kidney reflex area if the individual
is complaining of bloating or of water retention symptoms.
The glands and organs responsible for regulating the
hormones would be another area the reflexologist would focus on as this area
generally affects the specific symptoms being experienced. The areas that might be addressed are as
listed below:
- The
brain – this area is pin pointed because of the serotonin pathways
- Digestive
system – also because of the serotonin element which can be found in the
intestinal walls
- Central
nervous system – is another reflex area
- Endocrine
system reflexes
- Relaxation
techniques - using reflex points this area of tension is addressed as it
does negatively affect the PMS cycle.
Reflexology should only be sought if the PMS symptoms are fairly mild or irritatingly uncomfortable. If the PMS symptoms are of a more severe nature other medical sources should be consulted first. As in all things disregarding proper medical treatment in favor of alternative style treatments should only be done with the knowledge and advice of a medical physician familiar with the individual’s medical condition.
Bettering Quality Of Life For
Cancer Patients
When an individual first discovers a dreaded disease like cancer is present
in his or her body, the effects can be mentally devastating to say the least.
Most people fall apart initially, for the lucky ones however, after absorbing
the initial shock, they dive in and find out about the disease as much as
possible and also all the relevant styles of medical or natural treatments that
are available.
Some Relief: Reflexology has been one such discovery
made. Many who use reflexology as a treatment that compliments the ongoing
medical treatment have attested to being completely satisfied with the positive
results. The commencement and incorporation of reflexology into the general
treatment regiment, of course should only be done with a doctor’s consent.
When the reflexology therapy is used to treat the patient, it is done with
various intentions in mind. Some of these intentions are to provide comfort and
peace of mind, to lessen the impact of side effects caused by the medical
treatments, such as pain, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, stress,
depression, and fatigue. Other areas also to be addressed by reflexology are
the improvements of the quality of life after chemotherapy, mood swings,
quality of sleep, morale, and vital signs.
All cancer patients experience stress at various levels and at various
intervals during the onset and treatment of the disease. As most negative
medical conditions are somehow linked to causing more damage in the body
system, reflexology can be used to correct the stress levels effectively.
Reflexology is a gentle, effective tool used to assist in supporting and
encouraging the patient to be in a better frame of mind and body.
By trying to create some sense of harmony in an already
traumatic condition, reflexology works to play a positive role in creating a healing
environment during and after the course of medical treatments.
Increasing Energy and
Feelings Of Wellbeing
A good percentage of people today are very concerned with
their health. This concern may lead them to take better care of the diet and prompt
them to exercise more frequently and consistently. However when there are medical problems, the
first choice they usually make is to seek medical advice. While this is of course a wise thing to do,
some other alternatives may solve the problem better without the individual
having to ingest foreign elements into the body to treat the condition.
The human body already comes with its own healing tools,
but sometimes these tools just need that little help to ensure optimum successful
results.
Step Up Your Vigor: One option to choose when
experiencing mild medical problems is
reflexology. Reflexology address the problem is a holistic manner
and not just the problem itself.
All contributing factors, needs to be addressed, while
detecting the root cause, and meting out the necessary pressures. As the toxins
build up in our body systems, something should be done to address this
condition before these said toxins begin to cause negative medical conditions. Reflexology helps to ensure all the
body organs are working efficiently toward this goal.
In a reputably conducted reflexology session the
individual can expect to benefit holistically because there are various aspects
that are addressed. These include improving the general circulation in the body
system, relieving pain, and stimulated the immune and nervous systems. Each
body system is addressed individually with the intention of correcting any
disorders that may be present.
The blood circulation system is addressed because it
contributes to the wellbeing condition of the varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and
high blood pressure. In the case of the digestive system, reflexology is sought
to keep the following conditions under control or eliminate them all together;
stomach upsets, stomach bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diarrhea,
and ulcers. The nervous system is for addressing any possible sleep disorders,
depression, and lack of concentration or energy and memory loss.
Emotional Healing
With Reflexology
The most common reason people seek out reflexology
sessions is to ensure their stress levels are kept under control or eliminated altogether.
This is because a stress free body is a healthy body.
Even if a foot massage is given without any real
reflexology techniques, the receiver would be induced into a state of
relaxation and peace. The more often an individual is able to have the peace
and relaxation condition within the body system, the less stress levels are detected
is any at all.
The Mind
Therefore using reflexology to control emotions is
beneficial to the overall health of an individual. As reflexology is used in
general to support and encourage the body to right itself, it can be a major element
in controlling the emotions that are the byproduct of various negative medical
conditions.
Reflexology can be used to resolve the negative emotional
states brought on by anger, grief, fear, guilt, stress, jealousy, and depression. The negative energy is released out to the
individual’s system using the various pressure points related to addressing
this particular issue.
As the meridian system is the communicator between all the
various organs any physiological systems the energy flow can be sustained at an
optimum level using reflexology.
The effects of emotions have a direct impact on the health
condition of the body as previously pointed out. The body consists of fluids
like blood, lymph, urine, sweat, semen and cerebral-spinal fluid all of which
are reflected in the feet and can be recognized by a trained and experienced
reflexologist.
The fluids need to be in a constant flowing motion and
when they are prevented from doing so, due to reasons like blockages then the problem
cycle begins. Using reflexology to remove these blockages through the various
pressure points is a good non invasive excepted action.
Boosting Your Immune
System
The human immune system is the first line of defense the
body has for addressing potential negative elements. These elements may consist
of viruses, diseases, illnesses and others. Understanding the immune system is
very important to an individual’s who intends to always stay healthy.
The Whole Body
Besides removing waste matter of the different forms, the
immune system is responsible for protecting the body from external influences that
are harmful to the body and facilitating the smooth flow of the interstitial
fluids. It also identifies all bacteria and pathogen cells and eliminates them.
The immune system helps the various body parts to stay at
optimum conditions in order to carry out all its particular functions successfully. The smooth flow of the fluids can sometimes
cause complications to the other functioning organs when there is a blockage.
Reflexology can address this blockage of fluids properly and in a reasonable amount of time.
By listening to the bones, the reflexologist is able to tell if there are pulls in the connective tissues. If not remedied, these pulls, can affect the fluid flow patterns in the body.
Reflexology is also beneficial as a preventive measure for
good health, with particular attention being paid to the immune system; the individual
is able to keep the balance of the equilibrium thus aiding the body systems to
work more efficiently. Regular treatments to address a specific problem, or
just to ensure the body condition is in shape is a good habit to form.
If one’s immune system is working efficiently then, there
would be no need or a lesser need to visit the doctor so often. Also the immune
system will be able to fight off any outside infections more successfully.
How To Do Self
Reflexology, Find A Practitioner and Possible Side Effects
In order to address certain specific problems a careful study of a reflexology
chart must be done and Visiting a certified reflexologist for the initial
consultation would be better.
The Inside Info
Specific illnesses and problems are treated by targeting
specific points. This can be located at the foot, palm of the hands and ears.
Wrapping
Up
Though it may seem fairly easy to perform the reflexology
moves on one’s self there are some precautions that need to be taken and also some
points that everyone needs to be weary off.
Certain conditions may not permit the reflexology to be done on the feet,
perhaps due to the pain factor, then the exercise has to be done on the palms
of the hands.
When already ill, if reflexology is done on the feet,
further toxins will be emitted into the body and this will cause a further
deterioration of health.
If a fracture of broken bone condition has occurred it
would be a serious folly to administer the reflexology style of treatment, as
the pain involved will stress the individual further.
All in all reflexology is safe, but always make sure to
check with your doctor or reflexologist first.
Academic Anatomy, Physiology & Reflexology
Videos on 12 hr CEU exams:
Introduction to
Anatomy & Physiology | Body Organization
| Body Systems | Functions/Divisions
of Nervous System | Central Nervous System | Anatomy of Foot
Reflexology
Introduction | The Theory | Foot Chart | Dorsum | History | 4 Aspects | Adrenal | Feet | Hand | Brain Reflexes and the
Toes | Hand Problems to be Aware of
TAKE THE EXAM ONLINE (Certificate will be mailed on verification of exam passing and purchase of 12hr course)
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Hand Reflexology: Key to Perfect Health. West
- Carter M. Body Reflexology: Healing At Your Fingertips. Parker Publishing Company, 1983.
- Spencer R.
Mildred Carter announces a new health breakthrough! Blessed relief from 34
common ailments with new body reflexology. Parker Publishing Co.,
- Wills P. Integrating color with reflexology. Positive Health Magazine, Feb 1997.
- Let us introduce ourselves. International Institute of Reflexology Web site, accessed Feb 25. 2002.
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Quoted in Somatic Standard 5(1):5, April 2002. Big Sky Institute,
- Walsh K. The regulatory net. Massage Magazine, March 30, 2001.
- Jarvis WT. Reflexology. NCAHF Web site, accessed Feb 25, 2002.
- Oleson T, Flocco W. Randomized controlled study of premenstrual symptoms treated with ear, hand and foot reflexology. Obstetrics and Gynecology 82:906-911, 1993.
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- Brygge T and others. Reflexology and bronchial asthma. Respiratory Medicine 95:173-179, 2001.
- "Standards
of Practice, Code of Ethics & Code of Conduct" (doc).
Reflexology Association of
- Reflexology Paths in Kings
County, 201