Foot reflexology is supposed to treat diseases by applying pressure to certain areas of the foot. Can this really work?
Foot reflexology: The technique at a glance
Reflexology is a massage technique that treats diseases and disorders by applying pressure to specific areas of the foot. It was developed at the beginning of the 20th century by American therapists and masseurs. Reflexology is based on the idea that certain areas of the foot are linked to certain parts of the body. If a spot on the foot hurts or the skin changes, it is a symptom that the associated organ is damaged. Conversely, by applying pressure to the foot reflex zone, the associated organ can be stimulated and its function enhanced.
Division of the foot reflex zones
As a rule, the so-called grid pattern of Fitzgerald is used in foot reflexology. Here the soles of the feet are divided into zones: ten vertical and three horizontal. All zones represent certain parts of the body and organs. In general, the division is as follows:
Horizontal
Toes: Head, neck and shoulders
Middle foot: chest and upper abdomen
Heel: Ankle, organs in the abdomen and pelvic area
How does the foot reflexology massage work?
Diagnosis is done by palpation and looking at the foot - before the massage, the feet are examined for possible redness, swelling or water retention. During the actual foot reflexology massage, the sole and the back of the foot, the inside and the outside of the foot are massaged with the thumb or with the thumb and the index finger.
Stimulating or soothing touch
Depending on the symptoms you want to relieve, the reflex zones are massaged with a stimulating or a soothing grip:
Stimulating grip (toning): rather fast, circular movements (always in the same direction), the pressure is sometimes stronger and sometimes lighter. The toning grip is intended to stimulate the organs belonging to the reflex zones as well as the blood flow. For example, detoxification is supported in this way.
Calming grip (sedating): The sedating grip is primarily intended to help against pain. It involves constantly pressing the affected foot reflex zone - which often causes more pain at first, but then allows it to subside. The effect can start after only ten seconds or after two minutes. The soothing grip should not be used more than twice in succession per reflex zone. If the pain persists, the stimulating grip should be applied four to five times, after which the soothing grip is applied once again.How does reflexology work?
The diagnosis is made by palpating and looking at the foot - before the massage, the feet are examined for possible redness, swelling or water retention. During the actual foot reflexology massage, the sole and the back of the foot, the inside and the outside of the foot are massaged with the thumb or with the thumb and the index finger.
For which complaints is the foot reflexology massage used?
Typical areas of application for foot reflexology are:
Disorders of the internal organs
Joint complaints
Sports injuries
Pain
Sleep disorders
Digestive disorders
Muscle tension
Headaches
Relaxation through the foot reflex zone massage
Even if you do not want to specifically treat new ailments, foot reflexology can be helpful to relax. Massages are beneficial and help us to come to rest. If done properly, it also loosens the tissues and thus promotes blood circulation.
How well is reflexology scientifically proven?
Foot reflexology is not adequately supported by scientific studies. In particular, the idea that there is a connection between the foot and the organs of the body is not tenable. Also, deposits on the nerve endings in the foot cannot be proven. The healing effect of foot reflexology is attributed to the overall relaxing effect of the massage. In 2006, a study from Jena, Germany, suggested one-time indications of a possible effectiveness of the treatment, but a cure could not be clearly confirmed.
When should foot reflexology not be performed?
The method does not promise a cure for acute diseases, but is only intended to support the healing process. The treatment can sometimes be somewhat painful. Side effects are not usually to be feared, but there may be a temporary initial worsening of the state of health. Foot reflexology is not recommended for inflammatory and painful diseases of the feet and legs. In general, you should refrain from foot reflexology massage in case of the following ailments:
Fungal infections
Open wounds
Fractures or sprains
Rheumatism
Infections with high fever
Psychoses
Foot reflexology is also not recommended during pregnancy - certain zones treated in the process could induce premature labor.
For whom is reflexology suitable?
Foot reflexology is suitable for all who are ready to engage in physical contact with a trusted therapist. Self-treatment or partner massages are also possible.
What does the treatment cost?
The first treatment, including anamnesis, lasts about one hour and costs between 40 and 60 Euros. Subsequent treatments take less time and are correspondingly less expensive. The public health insurances do not cover the costs.
What should I pay attention to during a foot reflexology massage?
In general, a foot reflexology massage should only be performed as a supportive treatment. If you want to use the foot massage specifically against complaints, you should make sure to be treated only by experienced therapists. If the following symptoms occur during the massage, you should stop it:
Sweating
Suddenly increased pulse
Nausea
General feeling of discomfort
As a rule, a session lasts between 20 and 45 minutes and should be performed two to three times a week.