Ch 13

Introduction to Reflexology

• Reflexology is the application of pressure to specific points on the feet or hands, believed to correspond with areas of the body.

  • Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH, 2020).

• It is the fifth most popular modality among massage practitioners (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards [FSMTB], 2013).

• Reflexology has been shown to be safe for fragile patients (NCCIH, 2020).

• While reflexology can also target areas like the ears, this chapter focuses on foot reflexology.

• Foot reflexology differs from general foot massage as it applies pressure to specific points rather than generalized areas.

• Research indicates mixed outcomes on efficacy compared to other treatments for reducing symptoms in diverse populations (Gozuyesil & Baser, 2016; Williamson et al., 2002).

Cultural Significance of Feet

• Feet hold sacred significance in various cultures.

  • Jesus washed his disciples' feet as a symbol of humility.

  • In Indian culture, the practice of Pranama involves touching the feet of elders to show respect.

• Indigenous Americans consider feet sacred due to their direct contact with the earth, deserving to be uncovered to receive the earth's life force.

• The practice of foot massage and reflexology has been around for over 5000 years, with historical references in India, Egypt, China, and Japan.

  • Early Indian art depicts reflexology through depictions of Hindu god Vishnu.

  • A pictograph dating to approximately 2500 BCE demonstrates foot massage with inscriptions implying a therapeutic intention.

Historical Development of Reflexology

• Reflexology evolved from zone therapy, with foundational work by early American physicians William Fitzgerald and Joe Shelby Riley in the early 1900s.

• B. Barczewski introduced the term "reflex massage" in a 1911 publication.

• W. Kohlrausch's 1955 book, Reflex Zone Massage, emphasized the role of pressure in increasing blood flow through reflexive actions.

• While reflexology claims various benefits, researchers noted that specific hemodynamic effects on organs are not substantiated (Jones et al., 2013).

• Eunice D. Ingham, termed the "mother of reflexology," significantly advanced the practice, mapping reflex points on the feet.

  • She published Stories the Feet Can Tell in 1938 and taught reflexology until her retirement in the 1970s.

• Her nephew, Dwight Byers, continues her legacy through the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR).

Ancient Theories of Reflexology

• Ancient Eastern philosophies propose that all living things have a life force known by various names (chi, qi, ki, prana).

• Reflexology asserts that life force flows through the body via 10 vertical pathways (zones), leading to its initial designation as zone therapy.

  • A healthy body allows unimpeded energy flow; imbalances signify disruptions in this flow.

Body Mapping: Zones and Reflex Points

• Zones: Represent 10 vertical pathways in the body corresponding with reflex points on the feet (Fig. 13.2).

  • Each foot has five zones, integral for locating reflex points.

• Landmarks: Horizontal lines that intersect the plantar surface, defining reflex point regions (Fig. 13.3).

  • Examples include:

    • Neck/Shoulder Line: Between the base of the toes and ball of the foot.

    • Diaphragm Line: Below the ball of the foot covering the chest area.

    • Waistline: At the base of the fifth metatarsal, indicating upper and lower abdominal areas.

    • Pelvic Line: Above the heel, encompassing the pelvic area.

• Reflex Points: Points that correlate with bodily structures like organs (Fig. 13.4).

Basic Techniques in Foot Reflexology

• Techniques include walking technique, direct pressure, and relaxation methods.

• Walking Technique: Thumb pressure stimulates entire zones during the treatment.

• Point Work: Direct application of pressure to specific reflex points through:

  • Direct Pressure Technique: Locate and apply pressure, adjusting as needed.

  • Hook-In and Backup Technique: Locate and apply circular movements while nearby areas are held steady.

• Relaxation Techniques: Used before, during, and after sessions to enhance client comfort, including foot and ankle flops, dorsiflexion and plantar flexion movements, and pressure applications on strategic points.

Treatment Guidelines

• Reflexology can be conducted in various settings, ensuring to remove shoes and maintain a hygienic environment.

• Key guidelines include:

  • Conduct health assessments prior to sessions.

  • Wash hands and sanitize tools before and after each treatment.

  • Adjust pressure to client preferences and responses.

• Lubricants are optional; should be minimal to maintain tactile precision.

Contraindications

• Standard precautions apply for conditions such as:

  • Localized cysts.

  • Skin lesions (ulcerations and fissures).

  • Viral, fungal, and bacterial infections.

  • Ingrown toenails, gout, and recent foot/ankle injuries (avoid treatment on inflamed areas).

Reflexology Session Techniques

• Reflexology can be self-applied or taught to clients.

• Key treatment areas include:

  • Chest Area: Heart and lung reflex points located on the foot's ball.

  • Abdominal Area: Reflex points for vital organs (liver, spleen) positioned between diaphragm and pelvic lines.

  • Pelvic Area: Reflex points corresponding to urinary structures nestled below the pelvic line.

  • Reproductive Area: Located at the ankles, important for conditions related to reproductive health.

  • Head Area: Reflex points for the pituitary gland and sinuses reside in the toes, following specific mapping protocols.

  • Spinal Area: Along the medial edges of the feet, reflecting spinal health throughout the entire length of the feet.