Reflexology is an alternative therapeutic treatment based on the idea that areas of the feet, hands, and ears are connected to other areas of the body. According to reflexology, pressure applied to the right reflex points can correct problems with correlating body parts, organs and ones. For instance, a point on the arch of the foot may correspond with liver function. When pressure is applied to the reflex point on the foot, it will improve the liver functioning.
Reflexology is an ancient art. The precise date of origination is unknown, but there is evidence that it was a common healing treatment practiced 5,000 years ago in ancient Asian and Middle Eastern cultures. Reflexology is coming back in vogue and is the top alternative medical treatment in Denmark, where it is incorporated into employee health programs (see Reference section).
Reflexologists use “maps” of the hands and feet to determine which body systems correspond with one another. The extremities are broken down into tiny color-coded sections on the map that make it clear which organs, valves and bones will be affected by applying pressure to certain areas.
There are maps for the feet, hands and the outer ears (see Reference section). For example, in the feet, the left foot corresponds to organs on the left side of the body, while the right side of the foot corresponds to the right side of the body. More specifically, the gallbladder is on the right side of the body, and therefore the reflex point is on the right side of the foot.
Reflexology is sometimes referred to as a massage, but it is not a massage in the typical sense of the word. Massage involves applying pressure over large sections of the body to target the muscular and circulatory systems. Reflexology, on the other hand, focuses on pointed, specific areas of the feet, hands and ears. It can target not only the main body systems that massage affects but also specific organs, like the liver, bladder and kidneys.
While a Massage Therapist reflexologist can address specific conditions of the body, they cannot and should not attempt to diagnose disease. In fact, Bill Flocco, the Director of the American Academy of Reflexology, says it can be dangerous to use reflexology to diagnose a condition This is because the reflex points on the body may already be strained or sore, and they, therefore, won’t give a clear read of the body. This breakdown in response can be a result of regular wear rather than an issue with the body system that the point corresponds to.
Reflexology from a Macomb County Massage Therapist has a number of benefits. At its most basic level, it is a soothing experience that is helpful for stress-relief. If the specific reflex points are targeted correctly by a reflexologists, the benefits can be remarkable, including relief from migraines, circulatory and digestive issues, sinus problems and more. In general, any organ of the body with a correlating reflex point can be improved through regular reflexology treatments.
Reflexology massage treatments usually last between 30 and 60 minutes. Treatments can be performed as frequently as necessary, but most people choose to visit a reflexologist every two weeks for optimal health benefits
The reflexology experience should be relaxing. During the procedure, if you ever feel pain, be sure to let the practitioner know right away. Initially, you may experience tenderness or pain. If this happens, they will probably spend more time on that area. The soreness should decrease with pressure.
Reflexology has become a popular alternative treatment for patients. It has been shown to speed healing, soothe tired feet, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. This treatment can also be used to speed healing after an operation. According to a recent study by the American Cancer Society, one-third of U.S. cancer patients use reflexology as a complementary therapy. Keep in mind that reflexology should never be used to replace standard medical treatment. It is only meant to complement other medical treatment.
Some common uses for this therapy are as follows: stress, tension headaches, digestive disorders, arthritis, insomnia, hormone imbalances, sports injuries, PMS, constipation, and back pain.
Typical treatments will last nearly an hour. After consulting with you over your overall condition, you will be seated in a chair after removing your shoes and socks. The therapist will use brisk movements to warm the feet, and then will stimulate various parts of the feet to assess tension and tenderness. They may use lotion or oil during the process. After treatment, most people feel relaxed and sleepy, although some may feel nauseous temporarily.
If you are pregnant or have foot ulcers or a history of blood clots, do not take part in this therapy without thoroughly discussing it with your doctor and the reflexology therapist. http://search.qandas.com/article/what_is_reflexology.html?id=6641&keyword=reflexology
Macomb County Massage Therapist explains Reflexology
Total Health Systems is “a multidisciplinary practice that provides both traditional medical and holistic therapies with a two-pronged ‘corrective’ and ‘wellness’ approach.”
Call one of our three locations for a Macomb County Massage Therapist or more information on reflexology.