What does foot reflexology do?

Foot reflexology, also known as reflexology, is an alternative therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet (and sometimes hands and ears) that correspond to different organs and systems of the body.

The purpose of reflexology is to improve health and well-being by stimulating these reflex points. Reflexology is based on the theory that specific points on the feet correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology is believed to promote healing responses.

Reflexologists believe that by stimulating reflex points, blood flow can be improved, which helps remove toxins and promote health. The scientific evidence for the effectiveness of reflexology is very poor. Some studies suggest that reflexology may help reduce pain and promote relaxation, while other studies conclude that the benefits may be due to the placebo effect.

The placebo effect is most commonly observed in conditions that are sensitive to stress and anxiety, such as chronic pain, headaches and migraines, and digestive problems. Reflexology has no place in serious conditions.

Source: https://www.painmanagementnursing.org/article/S1524-9042(24)00186-3/abstract

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0958259223000159?via%3Dihub

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024