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Reflexology                                                                                                                                                                                                

Involves stimulating points on the soles of the feet that are said to influence the physiology throughout the body.

 

According to reflexologists the body contains an energy field, invisible life force, or Qi, the blockage of which can prevent healing. [2] Reflexologists claim to be able to relieve stress and pain in other parts of the body through the manipulation of the feet.

 

These hypotheses are rejected by the general medical community, citing a lack of scientific evidence and the well-tested germ theory of disease. Reflexology was further developed in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham - 1899–1974, a nurse and physiotherapist. Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology.

 

Common criticisms of reflexology are the lack of central regulation, accreditation and licensing, the lack of medical training provided to reflexologists, and the short duration of training programmes. Diplomas in reflexology may be attained with as little as six months of home study - eg; opencollege.info/reflexologycourse

 

The lack of licensing and regulation allows anyone to practice as a reflexologist, with no qualifications. Some European countries, such as Switzerland, require reflexologists to be medical practitioners, due to the required understanding of anatomy and physiology.

 

Reflexology's claim to manipulate energy - Qi - has been called pseudoscientific, as there is no scientific evidence for the existence of life energy - Qi, crystalline structures, or pathways in the body.

 

MS                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Reflexology has been investigated in MS on one occasion. 71 patients were randomised to either reflexology treatment with manual pressure on specific points in the feet and massage of the calf area, or to non-specific massage of the calf area only. 53 patients completed the study, there were perceived improvements in the mean scores of;

• Muscle strength.
• Spasticity.
• Paraesthesia - abnormal sensations such as pins and needles.
• Urinary symptoms.

The application of reflexology has no known adverse side effects. [1]

 

 

 

1. Siev-Ner I, et al. Reflexology treatment relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis: a randomised controlled study. Multiple Sclerosis 2003;9(4) 356-361.
2. Norman, Laura; Thomas Cowan (1989). The Reflexology Handbook, A Complete Guide. Piatkus. pp. 22, 23. ISBN 0-86188-912-6

 

Other Web Sites                                                                                                                                                                                        

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