Is there any scientific evidence for reflexology?
Is there any scientific evidence for reflexology?
Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medical practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet and/or hands. There is no convincing scientific evidence that reflexology is effective for any medical condition.
Are reflexology charts accurate?
Results: There is little evidence that the distribution of ratings vary with the status of the condition. Conclusion: Despite certain limitations to the data provided by this study, the results do not suggest that reflexology techniques are a valid method of diagnosis.
What are the zones in reflexology?
5. Reflex zone therapy
| Meridian | Reflex zone |
|---|---|
| Line 1 | Right thumbs and big toes |
| Line 2 | Right index finger and second toe |
| Line 3 | Right middle finger and third toe |
| Line 4 | Right ring finger and fourth toe |
What is the philosophy of reflexology?
How does reflexology work? The philosophy behind reflexology teaches that your body is divided into ten vertical zones, running from your head down to the reflex areas in your hands and feet, and from the front to the back of your body.
Which condition has research shown that reflexology will alleviate?
Research studies in the U.S. and around the world indicate possible benefits of reflexology, particularly in reducing pain, enhancing relaxation, and reducing psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
How did reflexology originate?
However, reflexology is thought to have been passed down through an oral tradition, and possibly first recorded as a pictograph on the Egyptian tomb of Ankhamor in 2330 BC along with other medical procedures. Reflexology symbols are thought to be recorded on the feet of statues of Buddha in India and later China.
Are pressure points in Foot real?
It’s important to note that although reflexology has been practiced in many countries for thousands of years, there is scant scientific evidence available to prove its effectiveness. A 2015 study noted that strong evidence to support foot reflexology is lacking, despite many small-scale trials and anecdotal evidence.
What is the history of reflexology?
Reflexology is a therapy that dates back thousands of years. It can actually be traced back to the ancient civilisations of Egypt, India, Native America and China. Eunice Ingham was a physiotherapist working in a doctor’s practice using the zone therapy developed by Dr Fitzgerald. …
What does the heel represent in reflexology?
Learn about an inside chart. It can also be helpful to know for more detailed foot reflexology massages. The bottom of your foot from the tip of your big toe to your heel represents your spine. The insides of your feet are the same basic shape as your spine, with the same curves and bends.
What is the origin of reflexology?
Who invented reflexology?
William H. Fitzgerald, MD
In the United States, William H. Fitzgerald, MD, who is frequently referred to as the father of reflexology, wrote in 1917 about ten vertical zones that extended the length of the body.
What is the reflexology theory?
The theory of reflexology is that all the systems and organs of the whole body are mirrored or reflected in smaller peripheral areas, for example the feet, hands, ears and face. These can be seen in relation to the feet by following the link to our interactive reflexology map (right).
What is a reflexology foot chart?
The theory behind reflexology is that areas of the foot correspond to organs and systems of the body. Pressure applied to the foot is believed to bring relaxation and healing to the corresponding area of the body. Reflexologists use foot charts to guide them as they apply pressure to specific areas.
Who can rereflexology help?
Reflexology is a therapy which can be received by anyone at any age, from newborn babies to those receiving end of life care, and everyone in between. However, there may occasionally be times when it is not suitable to provide a treatment.
Which databases are used to search for foot massage articles?
PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and SpringerLink databases were utilized to search the following medical subject headings or keywords: foot massage, reflexology, foot reflexotherapy, reflexological treatment, and zone therapy. The articles published for the last 10 years were included.
