Video:Tips for Getting a Reflexology Treatment

Transcript:Tips for Getting a Reflexology Treatment

Hi, I'm Missy Anderson, licensed massage therapist and owner of Barefoot Body Works in San Luis Obispo, Calif. I'm here today for About.com to give you some tips for getting a reflexology treatment, using information from their Alternative Medicine GuideSite.

What Is Reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient practice that focuses on improving energy flow within the body, primarily through the feet. Let's take a closer look. Sometimes referred to as zone therapy, reflexology is an alternative form of treatment that corresponds certain areas of the feet to respective areas of the body. For example: the tips of the toes reflect the head; the balls of the feet correspond to the chest, heart, and lungs; the arches of the feet reflect the abdominal area including liver, pancreas, and kidneys; and the heels of the feet correspond to the pelvic region – lower back, intestines, etc.

What to Expect at a Reflexology Session

This type of treatment is administered on a standard massage table or a comfortably reclining chair. As you prepare for your appointment, you can expect to remain clothed throughout the process, so be sure to wear something comfortable. Only your feet will need to be exposed as your massage therapist or reflexologist uses her hands and fingers to apply direct pressure to the zones of your feet. As she does this, she may stop on certain points and give them a little more attention. In general, it's a very relaxing form of therapy and should not cause you any pain. However, should the pressure be too much, or you experience a great amount of discomfort, speak up and let your reflexologist know.

Theory Behind Reflexology

The theory behind Reflexology is that the pressure applied to each area of the foot triggers certain reactions within the nervous system. As a result, balance is restored to problem areas, and there may even be a reduction of pain and stress to affected zones of the body. As an alternative therapy, many people seek out Reflexology simply for relaxation or for general foot pain. It's also been useful to some in relieving headaches, arthritis, insomnia, back pain, and a whole host of other internal issues.

Additional Tips for Reflexology

Reflexology treatments are intricate and your massage therapist or reflexologist will work on both the dorsal and plantar surfaces of the feet, or top and bottom, respectively. You can usually expect a single treatment to last between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on your preference. Reflexology is a relaxing and worthwhile form of treatment. If you're at all interested in alternative medicine, I'd recommend giving it a try.

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