Fingers and toes blanching white, to purple or angry red – these are classic symptoms of Raynaud’s syndrome. About 5% of the U.S. population has this condition according to the National Lung and Blood Institute. The disorder most commonly affects the hands and feet of sufferers but can also affect the nose, ears, nipples and lips.
A reduction of blood flow to the extremities is the cause of the discomfort and color changes in the skin but the underlying cause is unknown in many cases. People with Raynaud’s experience a decrease of blood flow to the affected area for a short time. This episode can be brought on by a change in external temperature, such as reaching into the freezer, or from a stressful incident.
Improving Circulation with Reflexology for Raynaud’s
Reflexologists work on body maps located on the feet, hands and ears – areas most often affected by Raynaud’s syndrome. Sessions work to create body-wide homeostasis, or balance, and have an effect on the circulatory system. At the 2005 International Council of Reflexologists’ International Conference Dr Mark Piquemal, MD, EE, shared his research on blood flow after a reflexology treatment. In his study he was able to observe changes in the skin using thermographic imagery before and after a 20-minute session.
“My hands and feet feel so warm after a reflexology treatment,” reports a client with diagnosed with Raynaud’s syndrome who finds Reflexology helpful during the cold weather months. Another client reports her symptoms are greatly improved after a couple of sessions spaced a week apart.
Reflexology’s Stress Reduction Can Benefit Raynaud’s Clients
Stressful emotions can trigger a Raynaud’s attack, which may last for minutes or over an hour in length. “When I’m stressed my fingers get so bad,” complained a Raynaud’s sufferer. As a stress management tool Reflexology is popular with many clients, “I can’t believe how relaxing Reflexology is!” is a common exclamation in my practice.
One of the most well-known benefits of reflexology is relaxation. Some clients find reflexology more relaxing than other types of complementary medicine such as massage therapy, acupuncture or Reiki. Giving the entire body a workout through the maps of the feet, hands or ears encourages a deep relaxation and the recipient walks away with a renewed sense of balance and wellness.
Reflexology Treatment Plan for Raynaud’s Syndrome
A good reflexologist will take the client’s health history and wellness goals into account when creating a customized session. Consider going for a weekly session three to four times and keep the practitioner updated on any changes in your health status.
The reflexology practitioner can also give you tips for self care at home, these may include suggestions for keeping the feet warm, self help Reflexology techniques or even a referral to a colleague practicing a complementary modality.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
- What is Reynaud’s? National Lung and Blood Institute, accessed online December 2010.
- Global Effect of Reflexology on Blood Flow, by M. Piquemal, MD, EE, accessed online December 2010.
- What is Raynaud’s Phenomenon? WebMD, accessed online December 2010.
- The author’s personal experience and interviews with Reflexology clients diagnosed with primary Raynaud’s and secondary Raynaud’s syndromes.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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