Cranial and Neck Reflex Areas in Reflexology

Apr 10, 2011
Amy Kreydin

Toes Mirror the Head and Neck in Reflexology - Jana Kollarova

The head and neck are mirrored on reflex maps on the toes, fingers, and ear lobes. Reflexologists use pressure techniques to encourage whole body balance.

Reflexologists work to stimulate reflex areas that are thought to mirror the body in map form on the feet, hands and ears. Reflex areas for the head and neck show up in the foot maps on the toes, in the hand maps on the fingers and in the auricular maps on the lobes of the ears.

Depending on the session’s goals, your reflexologist may spend extra time on these reflexes. For example, in a 60 minute full foot reflexology treatment, I may spend 20 or more minutes working on the reflexes found on the toes.

Reflexes Mirrored on the Toes

The pads of the toes are thought to represent the head while the necks of the toes are thought to mirror the body’s neck. Specific reflexology techniques are applied to all sides of the toes including the toenails.

Focus work on the toes would encourage a relaxed mind, release muscle tension in the neck and reduce discomfort in the face and scalp.

Toenails – are stimulated for the back of the head which includes the scalp.
Tips of the toes – are stimulated for sinus congestion.
Pads of the toes – are stimulated for the mouth – the teeth, gums, and jaw.
Pad of the great toes – are stimulated for the brain including the Hypothalamus and Pituitary gland reflexes.
Necks of the toes – are stimulated for the neck, throat, breathing airway or trachea.

Common Conditions of the Head and Neck

While reflexologists don’t treat specific diseases and disorders, they do work with clients that have diagnosed health conditions. Complementing the client’s existing medical care with her medical doctor the reflexology practitioner brings a holistic approach to working with the individual.

Clients may come to a reflexology session with the following complaints of the head and neck:

Sore throat – inflamed tissues of the esophagus can by a symptom of a cold or a strained throat from yelling, singing or crying.
Migraines and headaches – a variety of triggers can set off of a headache or migraine.
Toothache – throbbing or uncomfortable tooth pain can be a sign of an infection, a gum health disorder or recent dental work.
Dry, itchy scalp – often called dandruff, this skin disorder can be unpleasant as well as embarrassing.
Sinusitis – an infection in the sinus cavity may give the sufferer headaches, face pressure. Some describe it like a “punch to the face.”
Herniated or degenerated discs – over time the cervical spine, or “neck,” will succumb to gravity and show signs of compression or wear.

Where can I find a reflexologist?

Reflexology practitioners do not offer foot massage, in their specialized trainings they are taught how to work on the feet, hands and/or ears using specific finger and hand pressure techniques.

Use an online directory through your local reflexology association, or ask for a referral from your acupuncturist or chiropractor. Your potential reflexologist should have at least 200 hours of education in Reflexology according to the education standards of the United States and Europe.

Resources:

Wills, Pauline, The Reflexology Manual, (1995) Healing Arts Press
The author's personal experience as a Board Certified Reflexologist in private practice.

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.