Foot Reflexology

Overview
Reflexology is one of a number of alternative medical treatments related to the feet. Other treatments include foot detoxification baths and pads, both of which are supposed to draw toxins out through the soles. Reflexology is also said to support detoxification by stimulating the break-up of harmful substances, and some practitioners claim it can support heath in other ways. Research, however, does not back this up objectively and many doctors classify it as ineffective.

Definition
Dr. Stephen Barrett, a medical doctor affiliated with the Quack Watch medical fraud website, explains that reflexology is a form of massage performed on the feet and hands, although the feet are usually the main focus. Reflexologists believe there is a point on those areas for every other part of the body. They claim to be able to stimulate blood flow, energy, nerve impulses and nutrients to the designated areas by apply pressure to the proper spots. Barrett states, however, that there is no objective evidence to support any medical benefits from reflexology.

History
The International Institute of Reflexology states that reflexology is depicted on in drawings on an ancient Egyptian physician's tomb. Little is known about how reflexology was practiced in ancient times. The modern form was developed in the 1930s by a physical therapist named Eunice D. Ingham. She expanded on the Zone Theory espoused by a physician named Dr. William H. Fitzgerald in the early 1900s. He believed certain body areas corresponded to other areas and that putting pressure on the right point could relieve pain and cure certain conditions. Ingham refined this to corresponding points on the feet and hands for every body part, gland and organ.

Purpose
Some practitioners claim reflexology can be used to diagnose and treat many medical conditions by manipulating the appropriate point on the feet corresponding to the affected body part or organ. The International Institute of Reflexology explains, however, that it should be used primarily for relaxation and stress reduction. It may also help maintain good health and prevent some conditions.

Training
There are no uniform requirements for reflexology training. Some states require reflexologists to have a massage therapy license, while others do not regulate them at all. Training requirements in states with regulations run anywhere from 100 to 1,000 hours of training. Reflexologists in some locations must also pass the the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Certain cities require them to be licensed and makes their businesses subject to inspection.

Warning
Barrett warns that reflexology for various conditions such as PMS, post-surgical recovery and asthma, has not been shown to give better results than placebo massage. Additionally, there have not been any proven medical benefits. He maintains that reflexology can help with relaxation, but it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment of physical conditions.

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