Frequently Asked Questions About Reflexology
Answers to Common Questions on this Bodywork Modality
Sep 13, 2008
Reflexology is often confused with massage, shiatsu and other forms of touch therapy. A lot of disinformation exists about whether Reflexologists diagnose illnesses or act in the place of medical care. Read on to find answers to the most common questions asked about Reflexology.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a form of bodywork that is applied to the feet, hands or ears. These extremities are thought to contain maps mirroring the entire body – a place for each organ, gland and part. The American Reflexology Certification Board describes it this way:
“Reflexology is a non-invasive, complementary modality involving thumb and finger techniques to apply alternating pressure to reflexes shown on reflex maps of the body located on the feet, hands, and outer ears.”
How Does Reflexology Work?
There are several theories about how Reflexology works. One theory is the Zone Theory, developed by Dr. William H. FitzGerald, that divides the body into ten zones running from the top of the head down to the feet. Stimulation inside one of the zones is thought to cause a response in other parts located within the same zone.
How is Reflexology Different from Massage or a Pedicure?
Nail technicians are trained specifically to improve the hygiene and beauty of the feet by using tools to remove layers of skin cells, trim the cuticles and nails and applying polish to the nails. It incorporates lower leg and foot massage strokes intended for relaxation. A pedicure is not touted as a therapeutic modality but a beauty treatment.
Body massages are given by practitioners trained in techniques to work on tight muscles, sore joints or as relaxation. It is generally applied to the majority of the body and is either available as a therapeutic treatment or a relaxation treatment.
Reflexology however has a wholly different focus than these two – the intention of a Reflexology session is to balance internal organ, gland and body functions. It is believed that Reflexology can improve functions of musculo-skeletal system, circulatory and lymphatic systems and profoundly affect the internal organs of the body. Specific techniques are used with the fingers and thumbs in a rhythmical fashion to work through the body’s systems: endocrine, which regulates hormone functions, digestive, and so on.
Is Reflexology Painful?
In some parts of the world Reflexology is applied using a very strong pressure. This is very common in several Asian styles of Reflexology and can be uncomfortable or painful. One Reflexologist communicated that when the recipient is in pain or uncomfortable he is not able to fully relax and the full benefits of a session may not be experienced.
A recipient of Reflexology shouldn’t experience pain during a Reflexology session. Some areas of the feet are naturally more sensitive than others and some reflex points may feel tender during a session. A Reflexologist is trained to follow the client’s cues and decrease pressure if it is uncomfortable for the client.
How Often Should Someone Have Reflexology?
Frequency is dependent on the client’s goals for the sessions. A typical approach is to receive Reflexology weekly for three to four weeks and then begin to space the sessions farther apart as improvements are noted. For those without specific health complaints a rule of thumb is monthly or every six weeks for ‘maintenance’ sessions.
For more information on this modality visit these resource articles:
Common Reactions to Reflexology
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