When a Reflexologist works on someone’s feet the practitioner is not treating for a specific condition, such as foot pain. The concept of Reflexology is that the entire body is reflected in the feet. By working the whole foot the practitioner is encouraging the body’s natural healing abilities to address imbalances throughout the entire body.
What is Foot Pain?
Pain in the feet can range from a myriad of problems ranging from trauma to the foot, gait or biomechanical issues when walking and standing, to ill-fitting foot wear. Common painful foot conditions include:
- Plantar Fasciitis – also known as heel or arch pain
- Neuromas – trapped nerves between the long bones of the foot
- Heel spurs – painful bone growths on the heel
- Bunions – a deformity or twisting of the great toe and first metatarsal bone joint
- Achilles tendonitis – inflammation of the tendon running from the heel up to the calf
How Would Reflexology Help?
In cases of inflammation, such as plantar fasciitis and tendonitis, a Reflexology session may be beneficial for improving circulation. The Reflexologist automatically uses techniques in every session that can help with circulation of the lower leg and foot so no special methods are required.
Gentle manipulations of the foot can help with arthritic and joint related pain such as bunions, hammer toes, claw toes and stiff joints.
Foot Pain and Reflexology Case Studies
Morton’s neuroma – a 44 year old male presented with Morton’s neuroma, a trapped nerve between the second and third metatarsals. The client reported finding moderate pain relief after his first session. Further Reflexology sessions were given until the date of surgery to repair the painful nerve condition.
Bunions – this 60 year old female came with a history of bunions in both feet. Monthly sessions improved her gait and reduced pain and discomfort when walking or standing.
Plantar fasciitis – a 52-year old marathon runner had ceased training due to painful plantar fasciitis that had lasted six months. After his third session of Reflexology he returned to running without further pain in his feet.
When Reflexology is Not Enough
Reflexology is not used a cure for foot conditions but works best when used alongside prescribed treatment plans from a podiatrist or primary care physician. Open wounds such as cuts and blisters require first aid treatment and appropriate care to prevent infection. The Reflexologist will determine if the area is too large to apply Reflexology to the foot or not.
Foot conditions that are contagious such as plantar warts and Athlete’s Foot should also be treated prior to receiving Reflexology. The practitioner may wear gloves or ask the client to put a plaster or bandage over the area to prevent spreading.
In cases of diabetes foot pain Reflexology can only go so far. The client will need to follow directions from his doctor regarding blood sugar levels, dietary needs and medication. Regular sessions of Reflexology may help improve circulation and prevent worsening foot conditions such as neuropathy and diabetic foot sores.
Giving Reflexology a Try
Combined with protocols recommended by a podiatrist, a doctor or a physical therapist, Reflexology can be helpful for many people with foot complaints. After finding a Reflexologist locally, the client should ask him if he has experience with this particular foot condition.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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