Reflexology & Massage Therapy

Overview
Reflexology and massage therapy are forms of alternative medicine practiced for health and well-being. Massage therapy involves active manipulation of soft tissues. Reflexology is a touch therapy similar to acupressure that focuses on specific reflex areas. According to the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, "scientific evidence on massage therapy is limited," and "scientists are not yet certain what changes occur in the body during massage, whether they influence health, and, if so, how."

Reflexology
Reflexology, similar to osteopathy in treatment and technique, is a form of zone therapy. During a zone therapy session, the therapist looks for tender spots using constant pressure and a circular, rolling motion, aiming to decrease sensitivity, according to EnergyBalancing.com. Reflex areas in the hands and feet are the focus of the reflexology massage and, according to reflexology theory, manipulation of these areas can affect your organs and other parts of your body. Reflexology techniques have not been scientifically proven.

Benefits of Reflexology
MassageTherapy.com says "reflexology works with the body's energy flow to stimulate self healing and maintain balance in physical function. It's used to reduce pain, increase relaxation and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It has particular use in stress-related illnesses and emotional disorders, the site says. Reflexology techniques may be useful in instances where disease or trauma prevent direct manipulation. However, there isn't enough medical evidence to conclusively determine the health benefits of reflexology.

Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a system of palpating or moving soft tissues, including skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. According to MassageTherapy.com, "the massage system may include, but is not limited to, such techniques as stroking, kneading, gliding, percussion, friction, vibration, compression and passive or active stretching within the normal anatomical range of movement." Therapists use various styles of massage to address the specific concerns of the client. Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are the most common forms.

Benefits of Massage
According to MassageTherapy.com, massage can alleviate pain, enhance immunity, stretch weak muscles, lessen depression, improve circulation and reduce swelling. The Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that "analysis suggests that a single session of massage therapy can reduce state anxiety, blood pressure and heart rate, and multiple sessions can reduce trait anxiety, depression and pain." But because studies are limited, it's not proven how effective it is for specific health conditions.

Medical Considerations
The Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says not to massage any area of the body with blood clots, fractures, open or healing wounds, skin infections, weakened bones or the site of a recent surgery. Side effects of massage can include temporary pain or discomfort, bruising, swelling and allergies to massage oils, the center says. Discuss massage therapy and reflexology with your health care provider, especially if pregnant or undergoing cancer treatment.

http://www.blindmassageintl.com/