REFLEXOLOGY

Manipulative and body-based methods - edit
Acupressure Bodywork Bowen technique Chiropractic Craniosacral therapy Indian head massage Lomilomi Manual lymphatic drainage Massage therapy Naprapathy Osteopathic medicine Physical Therapy Rolfing Structural Integration Shiatsu Thai Massage Tui na Watsu
NCCAM classifications
Alternative Medical Systems Mind-Body Intervention Biologically Based Therapy Manipulative Methods Energy Therapy
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Alternative medicine Glossary of alternative medicine

An example of a reflexology chart, demonstrating the areas of the feet that practitioners believe correspond with organs in the "zones" of the body.

Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work affects a physical change to the body.^[1]

A 2009 systematic review of randomised controlled trials concludes: "The best evidence available to date does not demonstrate convincingly that reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition."^[2]

There is no consensus among reflexologists on how reflexology is supposed to work; a unifying theme is the idea that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that by manipulating these one can improve health through one's qi.^[3] Reflexologists divide the body into ten equal vertical zones, five on the right and five on the left.^[4] Concerns have been raised by medical professionals that treating potentially serious illnesses with reflexology, which has no proven efficacy, could delay the seeking of appropriate medical treatment.^[5]

Reflexology and Inguinal Hernias

Last Updated: Aug 16, 2013 | By Eliza Martinez

Reflexology pressure points are commonly found in the feet. Photo CreditStockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Reflexology, also called zone therapy, is a form of alternative medicine that involves applying pressure to various points on your body. It is used to treat a variety of health conditions, including an inguinal hernia. Always talk with your doctor about integrating reflexology into your treatment plan for a hernia before scheduling an appointment with a reflexologist.

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when your abdominal wall becomes torn, allowing small portions of soft tissue to fall through. It is sometimes a preexisting condition, but pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting and a chronic cough can also contribute to the development of an inguinal hernia. Symptoms include a bulge in your groin area, pain or aching at the site of the hernia, particularly when lifting or coughing, and a weak feeling in your groin. Treatment often requires surgery to repair the hernia.

Reflexology

The practice of reflexology involves manipulating various points on the feet and hands, which stimulates your nervous system. This is supposed to relax you, increase blood flow through your body and improve the function of internal organs. Since reflexology uses pressure, it may provide pain relief as well. An inguinal hernia often produces pain, making reflexology a good option to help you control the discomfort while you await surgery and while you recover from it.