If you haven’t tried or even heard of Reflexology before now, you don’t know what you’re missing.
Reflexology is a type of bodywork considered holistic or complementary that is performed by a certified practitioner. The Reflexology Association of America defines it as: “an integrative health practice, maps a reflection of the body predominately on the feet, hands and outer ears. It uses unique manual techniques to deliver pressure to neural pathways assisting the body to function optimally. (2019)”.
This type of therapy has many benefits and is recognized around the world. In fact, there are hundreds of studies regarding the effectiveness of Reflexology. Countless studies found through the National Institute of Health (NIH) National Library of Medicine (https://www.nlm.nih.gov/) confirm positive effects of Reflexology for people suffering from 3 main issues that affect everyday life function: pain, anxiety and stress, and management of a multitude of disease processes and illnesses.
Pain, whether chronic or acute, can affect daily life activities (ADLs) to the degree that a person either cannot perform without limitations or outright avoid everyday tasks like laundry, shopping, or even going to work. Back pain is the number 1 cause of disability worldwide per the World Health Organization (WHO). Reflexology has been shown to decrease back pain, specifically mentioned discogenic pain in several studies. Other studies mention relief from post-surgical pain and even benefits women in labor.
Anxiety can be a life-altering feeling for some folks requiring psychological and pharmaceutical treatment. Several clinical trials found in the NIH Medical Library also cite the benefits of Reflexology to treat anxiety related to multiple issues including cancer and cardiac patients. As far as stress is concerned, who doesn’t have it? For some however, increased stress can lead to headaches or lower immune response, amongst other issues. Several studies reported by the Mayo Clinic show decreased stress, anxiety and improved sleep and relaxation following Reflexology treatments.
Management of symptoms related to such diseases as Multiple Sclerosis, high blood pressure, PMS, digestive problems, and autoimmune disorders are just some of the many illnesses that respond well to Reflexology. People have reported decreased symptoms meaning decreased need for medicine as well, which is good news when we consider the opioid epidemic currently raging.
Lastly, reflexology is a non-invasive, generally low-risk treatment that warrants a trial session at least if you are suffering from any of the above problems. It is also beneficial as a treatment to achieve or maintain the body’s natural balance even if you are healthy.
