Foot Reflexology Research
Research supports the use of foot reflexology
Reflexology research studies help to support the many claims and benefits of this healing art.
Reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt between 2500 and 3000 BC. The evidence was found in the Physicians tomb that showed hieroglyphics of the physician applying pressure with his hands to the soles of his patients foot. Reflexology was also noted in the Chinese medical text, the Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine dating back about 4000 years ago. So why is foot reflexology so hard to believe today?
Reflexology is a difficult notion to grasp. When pressure is applied to a specific part of your foot, hand or ear, a response and effect will be noticed somewhere within the related part of the body. Not only that, most Reflexologists will tell you where certain trouble spots exist in your body based on their examination of your foot. A lot of people are sceptical of this claim. Some even look at me oddly.
Fortunately, today, we can rely on scientific empirical evidence to convince others of the validity of such claims. Since 1993, controlled reflexology studies have been conducted and published in a variety of medical journals.
The American Academy of Reflexology conducted the first study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vol. 82, #6, December 1993. Dr. Terry Oleson and Bill Flocco conducted a PMS Reflexology Research study that supported the use of ear, hand and foot reflexology for the treatment of PMS. Women participants demonstrated a significant decrease in their premenstrual symptoms as compared to the placebo group.
Bill Flocco has documented over 300 case and reflexology studies from around the world. A number of these reflexology studies are what are termed, outcome studies. These studies have shown the effectiveness of reflexology on a particular health condition such as PMS, asthma or headache.
Research studies aside, most who practice reflexology are passionate about this healing art. They know firsthand that it is a simple, non-invasive and effective method of bringing balance and healing to a person. Our ancestors left us with many healing practices. Reflexology is simply health at your fingertips.
© Copyright, Sylvia Carlson, January, 2007. Reproduction without permission prohibited.
