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This article is from the [alt.backrubs] Frequently Asked Questions, posted to alt.backrubs newsgroup. Maintained by Jamie Blustein with numerous contributions by others.

2.2.3 Reflexology

[This subsection, about Reflexology, is largely based on notes provided by Reflexology expert and author Kevin Kunz. He notes that there are significant differences between foot massage and Reflexology. Any errors are the fault of the FAQL maintainer and no one else.]

Reflexology is based on the belief that there are places on the feet (and hands) that correspond to parts of the body, e.g. internal organs and joints. Manipulating those parts of the feet (or hands) can have direct effects on corresponding parts of the body. Some proponents claim the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses of these organs by appropriate reflexological treatment.

I haven't seen a convincing explanation of why this is supposed to work but many people cite Reflexology as an excellent technique for holistic assessment and adjunct to other therapies. Although Reflexology is often discussed as part of Zone Therapy this isn't completely accurate. The archive contains some discussion and references to books about Reflexology.

According to Reflexology teacher Terry Norman <tnt@onramp.net>: a currently accepted theory in the West is that Reflexology works by way of the neuro-reflex points found in the feet & hands. When organs don't function normally the neural signals along the network change patterns. Such changes can be detected and monitored through the reflex points. Chemistry at these points sometimes changes as well -- hard painful spots (said to be uric acid crystals) may form at points that relate to the organ, or area of the body, to which the reflex point corresponds. Occasionally, when rubbing or pressing firmly on these spots you can feel them "pop" or burst apart -- they feel grainy or gritty like sand or sugar. After the spots disappear, the area begins to become less tender and the organ to which the reflex point relates also functions better.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) the points on the hands & feet correspond to the channels & collaterals. TCM has charts dating back thousands of years illustrating the same points on these areas as modern day Foot & Hand Reflexology charts. I believe that the "true" system is some convergence of both systems. Although, I think that what has been called "Reflexology", or "Zone Therapy" is nothing more than a re-discovering of the wheel you might say.

The Home of Reflexology provides details of Reflexology Organisations together with information on reflexology and other reflexology related links.

WWW: <URL:http://www.reflexology.org/>

 

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