Why is reflexology used

This is because there might be specific points on the feet that they need to avoid, or where they should only apply very gentle pressure.

People with diabetes should always ask their doctor before having reflexology. This is because it may interfere with drugs for diabetes. Also check with your doctor or nurse before having reflexology if you have any of these conditions:. There is no scientific evidence to prove that reflexology can cure or prevent any type of disease, including cancer. It is still a popular form of complementary therapy for people with cancer. Some studies have looked at using it to help with symptoms such as pain, sickness and anxiety.

A randomised controlled trial in looked at whether reflexology or scalp massage could help improve quality of life in women with early breast cancer, compared to social and physical support on its own. The women were split into 3 groups. They had one of the following:. Self initiated support meant physical and social support. Each group had the same amount of support. The study found that the women in the groups who had scalp massage or reflexology had improved quality of life compared to the group that just had support without a treatment.

Many cancer centres and hospitals in the UK now offer patients reflexology treatments free of charge. So you can ask your nurse or doctor if this is an option on the ward or centre where you have your treatment. If not, they may be able to direct you to voluntary organisations that offer complementary therapy treatments at no cost or a reduced cost. Costs can vary depending on where you live. It is important to have your treatments with a qualified therapist.

Make sure that you see a reflexologist who is properly trained and a qualified practitioner. The AoR provide advice and guidance to reflexologists, and work with others to promote high standards. Their website has a useful search to find your nearest reflexologist. Phone: Email: info aor. Find detailed information and research into some of the many different complementary and alternative therapies used by people with cancer.

Find out what complementary therapies and alternative therapies are, why people with cancer might use them and whether they are safe. Reflexology is an effective therapy that can help treat various issues from headaches and tension to menstrual cramps and insomnia.

So, if you have never had a reflexology treatment before, here is what you can expect. Reflexology is based on the idea that the glands, organs, and parts of the body are reflected in specific reflex areas on the hands, feet, and ears. Applying pressure to these specific points can reduce pain and anxiety and promote circulation, relaxation, and healing in the body.

The most common form of reflexology is foot reflexology. The stimulation of reflex areas in the foot triggers a response in corresponding organs, promoting healing in that area of the body.

Reflexology is reported to be effective in reducing tension and stress throughout the body by initiating the relaxation response. It also is effective at improving nerve and blood supply throughout the body by facilitation the functioning of the nervous and circulatory system.

Reflexology also helps the body to normalise by promoting balance and a state of harmony between the body, mind and emotions. It is also beneficial for issues relating to reproduction and fertility, digestion, anxiety, and insomnia. Reflexology does not treat specific conditions and is not a substitute for medical treatment and care.

Reflexologists do not diagnose illness based on the treatment they provide. A reflexology session generally starts with an overview of your medical history with the reflexologist. If we combine this information with your PHI, we will treat all of that information as PHI, and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of e-mail communications at any time by clicking on the Unsubscribe link in the e-mail.

Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. This content does not have an English version.

This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Healthy Lifestyle Consumer health. Products and services. What is reflexology?

Can it relieve stress? Answer From Brent A. With Brent A. Thank you for Subscribing Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Please try again. Something went wrong on our side, please try again. Show references Bauer BA. Other approaches.