Research
has shown reflexology to be effective and
beneficial in many
ways. A survey of 170 reflexology studies from 21 countries shows that
reflexology is effective, impacting a variety of physical and
psychological concerns. Reflexology:
Creates relaxation: From the
moment the reflexologist's hands start their work, the relaxation begins
as shown in research using EEG brain activity. All together, 24 studies
demonstrate reflexology's relaxation effects.
Reduces pain: Pain reduction following reflexology work is
documented in 27 studies including research showing impact on
individuals of all ages and health states
Ameliorates health concerns: Research shows that reflexology work
helps indiviuals of all ages with some 78 health concerns ranging from
aggressive behavior Êin children to urinary concerns of the elderly.
Improves blood flow: Separate studies show that reflexology work
increases blood flow to the feet, brain, kidneys and intestines.
Aids post-operative recovery: Reflexology work aids recovery after
surgery as shown by several studies, reducing pain and lessening the use
of post operative analgesics.
Impact on physiological measures (e. g. blood pressure and cholesterol; measurements by ECG, EEG, and fMRI)
Enhances medical care: Reflexology helps where nothing else can for
many: phantom limb pain sufferers, neuropathy patients, and hemodialysis
patients to name a few.
Benefits mental health: Research demonstrates that reflexology can reduce depression (11 studies) and anxiety (9 studies).
Complements cancer care: Pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anxiety
eased for chemotherapy patients following reflexology work as shown by16
studies fom 7 countries.
Eases pregnancy, delivery and post-partum effects: Women who
received reflexology experienced shorter labor times and used less
analgesia. In addition, reflexology showed a positive impact on
postpartum depression, anxiety, urination and bowel movements.
Basically, the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the
feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body, they are an easy way to interrupt
the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body's equilibrium.
Reflexology is a complement to standard medical care. It should not be construed as medical
advice, nor should not be a replacement to medical help.