 |
 |
Reflexology
What
is reflexology?
What
is the background of reflexology?
What
are the indications for reflexology?
What
are the contraindications for reflexology?
What is reflexology?
- Reflexology is
defined as a calm and soothing massage of the pressure points of the
feet. Its basic principle is that the pressure points of the feet correspond
to different organs and that through the feet the entire body can be
balanced and harmonized.
- The correspondence
between the feet and organs is presumed to rely on meridians, a system
of energy lines extending throughout the whole body, from head to foot.
This system is the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine and also
is used in shiatsu
and acupuncture.
- Massaging pressure
points on the feet also creates a stimulation of the nervous system
that may have soothing effects of its own.
What is the
background of reflexology?
- Reflexology is
rooted in a 5,000-year-old tradition from China. As a method of healing,
however, it has not yet been validated by Western methods of scientific
inquiry.
- It was introduced
in the United States by Eunice Ingham in the 1930s.
- Reflexology is
a recognized form of care in China and some European countries, where
it is often provided in hospitals and other health care facilities.
What are the
indications for reflexology?
Reflexology
is a form of preventive medicine that aims to maintain a personês balance
and well being. Though empirical studies are lacking, many patients have
benefited from reflexology. Conditions treated may include:
What are the
contraindications for reflexology?
- recent surgical
removal of a malignant tumor
- foot wounds and
burns
|
 |
