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How Reflexology Works
All reflexologists—no matter what type of reflexology they practice—share the same core belief about how reflexology helps the body heal. They believe that the body becomes imbalanced when it is under stress or fighting illness. These imbalances can cause the body to become sicker and unable to combat stress. When reflexologists use their hands to twist, rotate, wring, stretch, or press certain points on a patient’s feet, they heal the corresponding body parts.
However, reflexologists don’t all agree on how reflexology works. They have several different theories, including:
- Chi energy: This theory is based on the idea that reflexology balances the flow of energy (chi) in the human body, which leads to healing.
- Counterirritation: The human body responds to illness or injury with an immune response. Some reflexologists believe that the body constantly tries to restore equilibrium and that reflexology effectively creates an “injury,” causing the body to seek out balance.
- Crystalline deposits: Crystalline deposits build up in the feet over time. Reflexologists believe that these deposits block nerve endings and decrease the flow of energy throughout the body. Reflexologists break down these deposits, which they believe enables the body to heal itself by releasing blocked energy.
- Electrical response: Some reflexologists believe that the body is made up of different types of electrical impulses. If one impulse is overpowering the others, it can cause an imbalance elsewhere in the body. Reflexology, in their view, helps rebalance the body’s electrical impulses and leads to healing.
- Lymph drainage: The body’s lymphatic system removes excess fluid and toxins from the body. Some reflexologists argue that reflexology stimulates the lymphatic system, improving its overall function and therefore eliminating more toxins.
- Psychological response: Some reflexologists believe that the mind plays a large role in convincing the body that it has healed. In essence, they believe that reflexology creates a powerful placebo effect.
- Proprioception: Reflexologists who ascribe to this theory argue that reflexology prompts the nervous system to send the body false messages that the body has been rebalanced. In turn, the brain sends signals to relax the muscles, which leads to healing.
Does Reflexology Work?
Studies have been done to try to quantify the positive effects of reflexology, but it is not a scientifically proven healing method. Nonetheless, it is safe, preventative, gentle, and noninvasive, and many patients find that it can enhance overall health. Always keep in mind that reflexology is not intended as—and should not be used as—a substitute for conventional medical care.
| Acknowledgments & Disclaimer |
