Reflexology Practitioners Near Me

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FAQs:

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better. The theory is that this eases stress, and that helps your body work better. It’s also known as zone therapy. The way reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside is a bit like acupuncture and acupressure. But those therapies use points all over your body, not just on your feet, hands, and ears. And while reflexologists do use their hands, it isn’t a form of massage. Like those other therapies, though, reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it’s not an alternative to it, and reflexologists don’t diagnose or treat illnesses.

How Does Reflexology Work?

There are different theories about the exact way that reflexology works, but the main concept of all is that different areas of the feet are linked to specific body parts and that putting pressure on one area of the foot can have an effect on the organ that it corresponds with.

According to zone theory, a foot is divided into five zones that run from toe to heel: The big toe is zone 1, and the pinky toe is zone 5. The body is divided into 10 zones that run from head to foot. Zone 1 aligns with the left and right center of the body, and zone 5 aligns with the left and right sides of the body. When you place pressure on zone 1 in the foot, it can relieve pain in the part of the body that’s linked to that area.

A theory that dates back to the 19th century suggests that reflexology works by stimulating the nervous system. Pressing on areas of the feet in a calming way stimulates the nerves there, which sends a message to the central nervous system. This helps to relax the body and has positive effects on your breathing, blood flow, immune response, and more.

Another theory suggests that reflexology helps offset the way that your brain registers pain. When your feet are massaged, the relaxing sensations may help relieve stress and improve your mood, which may make you less inclined to perceive pain as deeply.

Still, another theory suggests that your body contains “vital energy” that is affected by stress. If you don’t work to relieve the stress, your body may not work as well as it should, which may lead to aches or illness. Reflexology is thought to help you maintain the flow of vital energy through your body.

What Can Reflexology Treat?

Reflexologists do not claim to diagnose or cure any ailments. While reflexology is linked to a huge variety of potential benefits, only a few of them have been observed in scientific studies. These include reduced stress, anxiety, and pain, and improvements in mood and general health. This is because your nervous system – which controls almost every aspect of your health and well-being – can be influenced by outside factors, including touch.

Applying pressure to the hands and feet 'can help improve your blood supply, reduce any tension, and bring balance to your body. It can also provide good pain relief for those suffering from osteoarthritis, but make sure you consult your doctor before treatment. The theory behind reflexology is that it can help your body restore its balance naturally and can leave you feeling relaxed.

Reflexology is also used to treat symptoms of the following:

- Back pain

- Migraine

- Poor digestion

- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

- Respiratory problems

- Asthma

- Headache

- Bladder problems

- Menopausal symptoms

- Period pain

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence states that reflexology may be helpful for multiple sclerosis (MS), but there is not enough evidence to give firm recommendations. 'Although little research has been done to prove that reflexology works to relieve the pain caused by MS

Is Reflexology Safe?

Reflexology is considered safe for most people, but as with any health program, should be run by your healthcare provider before starting sessions.

The biggest safety concern with reflexology is the potential for its use in place of conventional treatments. Reflexology should only be used in addition to conventional medical treatments. It is not considered an effective treatment for conditions on its own. Using it instead of seeking care from a healthcare provider could lead to:

- Missed/inaccurate diagnosis

- Ineffective treatment

- Delayed treatment

- The condition worsens in the absence of effective treatment

How Do You Feel After Reflexology?

Reflexology feels different to each person. Generally, clients feel relaxed and sometimes even fall asleep during treatment. Other normal reactions to reflexology include increased sweating in the hands or feet, light-headedness, increased emotions, thirst, coughing, and exhaustion. Clients may feel slight pain when muscle groups that are being stimulated contract. When sensitive reflex points are activated, it may feel like a bruise, comforting pressure, and warmth in the corresponding area of the body.

How Often Should You Get Treated?

Your practitioner will advise how often you should receive treatment based on your health concerns and wellness goals. However, because the benefits of reflexology are more subtle and build over time, having frequent sessions is advised, especially if you are new to the practice. A general recommendation is to schedule an appointment once a week for the first six to eight weeks, then to schedule follow-up appointments every few weeks after that.

How Does Reflexology Differ from Massage, Reiki, or Acupuncture?

Many people confuse reflexology with massage, Reiki, or acupuncture, but there are essential differences between these therapies.  Massage therapists manipulate larger areas of soft tissue in the body while reflexologists apply pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears.  Unlike either massage or reflexology, Reiki does not involve any physical manipulation or pressure, but instead uses light touch to work with the subtle vibrational field thought to surround the body. Finally, while acupuncture and acupressure, like reflexology, use reflex points on the body to influence other parts of the body, the points are not the same and acupuncture uses points over the entire body. While these are different practices entirely, one thing they all have in common is that they are sometimes used to help manage symptoms associated with stress. 

What is the Difference Between Reflexology and a Massage?

Reflexology is a unique modality that involves applying pressure to the feet, hands, and outer ears to promote healing, wellness, and balance. These areas, which are jam-packed with nerve bundles, can be stimulated or “reflexed” to send a nervous response to the brain and other parts of the body.

Reflexology maps of the feet, hands, and ears show which areas correspond to other body areas. It can be used to address a variety of ailments including the management of chronic pain and has been shown even to reduce the severity of pain and length of labor in pregnant women.

While reflexology focuses mainly on the feet (and occasionally the hands and outer ears), massage therapy is a manual technique that typically applies pressure to the whole body. By kneading and manipulating soft tissue, we can relieve muscular tension, improve circulation and promote relaxation. The research supports massage therapy’s efficacy—among its many uses, it has been shown to reduce pain and increase function for people with musculoskeletal disorders.

Which Method of Reflexology is the Most Widely Used Today?

Foot reflexology is the most common type of treatment that people receive. The reason it is so popular is that the reflex areas in the foot create a response in corresponding organs which promotes healing in other areas of the body.

Which Is Better Hand Reflexology Or Foot Reflexology?

Hand reflexology can be just as effective as foot reflexology, whilst often remaining more convenient too. The reflex points within your hands are a lot deeper than in the feet, so more pressure must be applied during hand reflexology to get the same results. If you have decided you want to visit a hand reflexologist for a session but are unsure where to look, you’ve come to the right place.

Does Reflexology Really Work?

If the outcome you’re hoping for is stress relief and a feeling of general wellness, then the simple answer is yes, reflexology can work. That said, reflexology is ultimately just a form of massage and should not be relied upon to treat serious health issues. Again, there’s not much in the way of scientific evidence to support the idea that massaging a certain pressure point in your foot will have any effect on another part of the body. Still, many studies do show that reflexology can be beneficial to well-being in general, by increasing relaxation and lowering stress (similar to other forms of massage).

How Much Does Reflexology Cost?

The price for reflexology treatments depends on different factors such as where you live and the rate that the therapist charges. Reflexology treatments are usually charged by the hour, but this can also vary from one therapist to another, however.  On average, the price can cost anywhere from $40 to $90 per 60-minute session.

Types of Reflexology

Reflexology is an active and continually evolving therapeutic practice. In recent years traditional reflexology has branched out into new and exciting therapeutic expressions to improve the health and wellness of clients. Within all of these different types of reflexology, some therapists specialize in different protocols.

1. Foot Reflexology is the stimulation of the foot for health conditions in other parts of the body using specific hand and finger techniques.

2. Hand Reflexology is the stimulation of the hands for health conditions in other parts of the body.

3. Ear Reflexology is the stimulation of the auricle of the external ear for health conditions in other parts of the body using specific hand and finger techniques.

4. Facial Reflexology is a healing therapy on the face. It is a hybrid practice including principles of reflexology and meridian theories.

5. Maternity Reflexology supports a mother and baby through all trimesters of pregnancy with specialized protocols for common symptoms and complaints that often accompany pregnancy. The focus is the alleviation of the uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy without the use of drugs.

6. Craniosacral Reflexology is a different approach to working with the zones and reflex areas of the feet.  Craniosacral Reflexology integrates the principles of reflexology, cranial osteopathy, and craniosacral therapy.

Benefits of Reflexology

Reflexology is linked to many potential benefits, but only a few of them have been evaluated in scientific studies.

So far, there’s limited evidence that reflexology may help to:

- reduce stress and anxiety

- reduce pain

- lift mood

- improve general well-being

In addition, people have reported that reflexology helped them:

- boost their immune system

- fight cancer

- get over colds and bacterial infections

- clear up sinus issues

- recover from back problems

- correct hormonal imbalances

- boost fertility

- improve digestion

- ease arthritis pain

- treat nerve problems and numbness from cancer drugs (peripheral neuropathy)

How to Reap the Benefits of Reflexology?

After-care for treatments is crucial to its efficacy. To aid the healing process and gain the maximum benefits, in the 12 hours after treatment you should:

1. STAY HYDRATED

Do your best to drink plenty of water to help flush the excess toxins and waste released by the reflexology. Pro-tip: hydrating your body before treatment is equally as important. Staying hydrated will prevent excess soreness, improve metabolic waste, and aid in detoxification. Aim to drink half of your body weight in ounces per day, especially on treatment days.

2. EAT LIGHT

Avoid heavy meals for up to two hours after your treatment. While nourishment is important, eating a large meal will divert blood to your digestive tract, rather than to the areas of the body needing the oxygen and nutrients for healing. If needed, consider eating a light snack such as a piece of fruit or some veggies.

3. AVOID CAFFEINE

Beverages such as coffee, tea, and sodas contain stimulants that can dehydrate your body and increase your heart rate. This can trigger or elevate symptoms of anxiety, potentially counteracting the benefits of your reflexology treatment.

4. AVOID ALCOHOL

This is an extremely important substance to avoid after a treatment. Alcohol has diuretic effects, impairs judgment, and can undo the benefits reaped from treatment. Try to avoid alcohol and smoking for up to 24 hours, as the effects are intensified post-treatment.

5. REST AND RELAX

It’s important to let your body recover naturally after a session of reflexology. Give your body time to relax during the day and be sure to indulge in a good night’s sleep.

6. ADVERSE EFFECTS

With any treatment, there is the possibility to experience some temporary negative symptoms. Any side effects should pass within 24 hours and can be minimized by following the tips above. However, don’t be concerned if you experience mild effects of the following symptoms:

- A temporary worsening of your symptoms

- Fatigue

- Chills (feeling hot and cold)

- Intensified emotions

- Headache

- Irritability or restlessness

- Clamminess of the hands and feet

- Runny nose

- Skin reaction

- Nausea

- Dizziness

- Diarrhea

What to Expect During A Reflexology Session

Reflexology sessions typically last between 30 to 60 minutes. At the beginning of the first session, or intake, the reflexologist will:

1. Ask some general questions about your medical history (e.g., health, lifestyle)

2. Explain how reflexology works, what it does not do (such as treat specific illnesses), and what to expect

3. Sign a consent form (not every practice requires this)

4. Give time and space for you to ask questions (if the reflexologist is dismissive of your questions/concerns or not forthcoming with information, consider that a red flag)

You usually lie down or sit in a reclining chair during sessions. You will stay fully clothed, except for your feet, if your feet are being worked on. Reflexology sessions are typically relaxing and soothing, but there may be discomfort when some areas are being worked on. Tell your reflexologist if you are feeling pain or discomfort. It's also okay to stop the session at any time.

During the session, your reflexologist will:

1. Work on your feet, hands, ears, or a combination, depending on your needs, wants, and accessibility

2. (May) wash your feet and soak them in warm water

3. Assess your feet for open wounds, rashes, sores, warts, or bunions, and ask you about any foot or leg pain you may be experiencing (if working on feet)

4. Encourage you to do what feels comfortable (e.g., talk, rest, sleep), and encourage feedback as you go

5. End the session in a calm, peaceful way that may involve stroking the hand or food

How to Do Reflexology

Reflexology is an ancient healing art backed by modern research that you can learn how to perform in the comfort of your own home. Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific places on your feet, hands, and ears, which have peripheral nerves that are connected to your central nervous system. Massaging these areas is a way to tap into your central nervous system to relieve pain and reduce stress through the simple power of touch.

1. Learn the fundamentals of reflexology. 

Reflexology is based on the premise that the nerves in your feet, hands, and ears each correspond with other parts of your body. Applying pressure to certain reflex areas can relieve symptoms in other parts of the body.

2. Understand reflexology zones. Reflexology is based on the idea that the body can be divided into zones. Picture your body divided into a system of longitudinal and transverse zones. Imagine five zones on each side of your body, starting at the tip of each toe, and running up the length of your body to the top of your head. The transverse zones (similar to lines of latitude) divide the areas of your feet into zones that correspond to your head and neck, your chest, your abdomen, and your pelvis area. Engaging the tip of a particular zone by applying pressure to a place on the foot activates the body's healing power for that entire zone.

3. Consider making an appointment with a reflexologist. Meeting with a person who has been certified in the art of reflexology is a good way to introduce yourself to the practice. He or she will be able to show you the finger "walking" techniques used to apply pressure to specific points on the hands, feet, and ears to relieve stress and pain in other parts of the body.

4. Practice applying pressure to reflex points. When you identify which zone you want to engage, find the correct reflex spots on your foot by looking at a chart or consulting with a reflexologist. Apply gentle pressure to the area. The pressure you apply to these spots will stimulate your body to create endorphins that interrupt the pain cycle and relieve stress.

5. Get in a comfortable position. Remove your shoes and socks and sit cross-legged on a bed or a yoga mat. Try to relax your body to prepare yourself to begin the healing process. You may either perform your reflexology treatment or work with a partner who can apply pressure in the spots that are more difficult to reach.

6. Relieve tension in your neck and head. Relieve neck tension by applying pressure to the joints or "necks" of your 8 little toes. If you are experiencing tension in one area of your neck, you will feel tension or slight discomfort in one of your corresponding toes. Your entire head is represented in your two big toes, so apply pressure to them to relieve headache tension.

7. Help your chest relax. Stress often manifests in the form of a chest that feels tight. You may feel like you're having trouble taking a good, deep breath. Apply pressure to the balls of your feet to alleviate chest discomfort. This area contains the reflexes to your lungs, airways, heart, thymus gland, chest, and shoulders.

8. Relieve stomach tension. If you tend to feel stress in your stomach, which many might describe as having "the jitters," press the reflex points on your instep (the non-weight bearing area on the bottom of your foot) to relieve the discomfort to your abdominal organs. This is the area you would want to work on if you are feeling "gut-wrenching" emotions, or if you wake up with a feeling of heaviness in the pit of your stomach.

9. Loosen your limbs. If your legs, arms, and shoulders feel tight with stress, use reflexology to loosen up. Discharge tension in your arms and legs by applying pressure to the reflex points on the outer edges of your feet.

Help yourself sleep. Try applying pressure to a combination of all of the reflex points to relieve insomnia. Stress is often the main cause of insomnia, and if worries, fears, and tension tend to keep you up at night, you can relieve your insomnia using the same reflex points you would use to relieve tension and stress.

5 Main Techniques Used When Applying Reflexology

1. Thumb Walking – Using only the top section of your thumb from the joint to the tip, inch your finger along the foot or hand, pressing into the foot then rocking your thumb back a little bit, inching it forward. Keep pressure on the entire movement for the best result.

2. Rotation on a Point – Great to use along the diaphragm line, just under the metatarsal heads. Press in with your thumb, then rotate the foot with your other hand. Inch along the diaphragm line repeating across the foot.

3. Finger Walking – Best used on the top or sides of the foot in more sensitive areas. Use the same technique as thumb walking, but use your index finger instead. Inch it along in between the metatarsals.

4. Hook and Backup – Great to use on the spleen reflex and gall bladder reflex. Simply press the tip of your thumb directly into the point, then slowly back it straight out. Can be very deep, so be sure to check in with your client about the pressure.

5. Slide and Press – Place both thumbs on the heel and slide each thumb from the center of the sole to the edge of the foot. Alternate the thumbs by using the right and then the left as you work up the foot towards the toes.

When using these techniques, make sure to apply pressure gently and avoid digging right into the tender point. Pressing firmly yet gently is the key to a good reflexology technique.

When You Should Avoid Reflexology

Most people, even those in the hospital, can benefit from reflexology. A study on women with advanced breast cancer found it was safe even for people who are very ill. But you shouldn’t have reflexology if you’re recovering from an injured foot or have gout. Because it may affect blood flow, it’s not for people with blood clots or women who are pregnant. If you have a chronic condition, a disease that affects your feet or legs, or arthritis in your feet or ankles, ask your doctor first. If your feet are off-limits, you may still be able to have reflexology on your hands or ears.

Side Effects of Reflexology

Reflexologists believe that massaging and stimulating specific reflex points and nerve endings in the feet increases circulation so that oxygen and nutrients can be distributed throughout the body and toxins can be cleared out. While side effects appear to be minimal, there are some things to watch out for.

Cold or Flu

Reflexology is generally considered to be a safe therapeutic method, but in some cases, people have developed cold or flu-like symptoms afterward. Practitioners refer to this as a healing crisis that occurs as the body eliminates harmful toxins. You may experience a runny nose from sinus congestion or cough up mucus from the lungs as the bronchial passages clear.

Fatigue

You might notice yourself yawning; in fact, falling asleep during treatment and feeling tired afterward is pretty normal. If you experience both fatigue and a headache, it may be anxiety, which many people experience at the onset of illness or when beginning a new treatment therapy. Some people also develop headaches when they feel tired; since these two side effects seem to go hand in hand, a headache usually disappears once your energy returns.

Emotional Reactions

You might experience various emotional reactions during or after reflexology treatments. Some people feel relaxed or like laughing, and others feel like crying. An intense state of relaxation may even make you feel lightheaded. If feeling emotional is uncomfortable, try to be gentle with yourself and trust that any overwhelming feelings should pass.

Sensitive Feet

Tenderness, increased sensitivity, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the feet are temporary side effects during or following the first reflexology session.

Uncommon Side Effects

Nausea, excessive sweating, insatiable thirst, and skin rashes are other possible side effects. Reflexologists say that nausea may be due to the effect of eliminating toxins from your body. Drink plenty of water to help to ease the discomfort. Staying well hydrated also helps remove toxins from the kidneys, bladder, and liver. Another way to fight nausea is to take small bites and chew slowly when you eat. Do not eat foods that are high in fat or sugar, as these take longer to digest. Some people may experience more frequent urination or bowel movements for a day or two afterward, as the body detoxes.

General Cautions for Reflexology

Reflexologists do not diagnose, prescribe or treat specific conditions. Treatment for foot problems such as corns, calluses, bunions, and ingrown toenails is not in the scope of practice of a reflexologist and should be treated by a doctor or podiatrist. Reflexology is a complementary therapy in that it works alongside other medical and therapeutic techniques. Always be guided by your doctor or specialist. Be very wary of any reflexologist who advises you to abandon your conventional treatment. Do not stop any medical treatments on the advice of your reflexologist.

How to Find a Good Reflexologist

1. Ask others for a recommendation.

Friends, family, and healthcare providers who have seen the practitioner and who know you will often be good judges of a "good fit." It is important to work with a practitioner who feels right to you.

Check the websites of professional associations.

The following sites let you search for reflexologists in your area:

- American Reflexology Certification Board

- Reflexology Association of America

- Professional Reflexology Associations.

2. Ask about training and certification.

Many practitioners are lay practitioners, perhaps trained at a massage school, without the in-depth training required for certification in reflexology. Ask how many hours their reflexology training was (most nationally recognized programs require 110 hours). Ideally, you would look for a nationally certified reflexologist, who has not only trained at an accredited institution but has passed a national board exam. See Reflexology Regulations for more information.

3. Ask the practitioner how they work.

If you enjoy deep work, ask the practitioner if they are able and willing to provide firmer pressure during the session. Many reflexologists prefer not to use firm pressure because they have found it is not necessary to achieve optimal results. If deep work or gentle work matters to you, ask before you schedule an appointment.

4. Explore payment options before booking a session.

Reflexology is typically fee-for-service. Insurance does not currently cover reflexology. (If reflexology is performed by a hospital employee on a hospitalized patient, it may be covered as part of the overall treatment plan. However, if reflexology is performed on a hospitalized patient by a practitioner who is in private practice, the patient will be charged for the session.) Thus, it is important to discuss payment with the practitioner before the reflexology session.

Sources:

Healthline

WebMD

Taking Charge

Netdoctor

Very Well Health

NHPCanada

Natural Healers

Get Well Physiotherapy

Wikihow

RAC

BLYS

Spine and Sports Physiotherapy

How Much Is It

Northwich Foot Clinic

PureWow

Leaf

Better Health Channel

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.