Some may associate Reflexology with a pampering or luxury treatment available in a spa. But, unlike foot massage and pedicures, Reflexologists actually work therapeutically, much like an Acupuncturist would. By stimulating points within the reflex maps the Reflexologist is encouraging the body to find a balance for itself. The whole map is stimulated and therefore the entire body gets attention, while only the feet, hands or ears are being worked on.
In today’s stressful work environment men can benefit from the relaxation effects of a Reflexology session. Some employ Reflexology for general health maintenance or as a way to hit the ‘reset’ button.
Male Reproductive and Urologic Health
The male reproductive organs can suffer from a variety of conditions including but not limited to:
- Infertility – male factor infertility can account for up to 40% of all conception problems and can range from genetic to physiological to hormonal and sperm abnormalities.
- Urologic diseases and disorders – prostate cancer, hematospermia (blood in the semen), incontinence, and enlarged prostate.
- Sexual disorders – dysfunctions including premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
In addition to working the reflex areas for the entire body the Reflexologist will also spend some focus work on certain points. For example, if the client is presenting with a diagnosis of an enlarged prostate the Reflexologist will want to emphasize the following points in a session:
- Urinary System Reflexes – the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters.
- Endocrine System Reflexes – the pituitary, hypothalamus, pineal, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, and sex organs or gonads.
- Lymphatic System Reflexes – spleen and lymph reflexes.
A 1998 study published by the China Reflexology Association evaluated 50 patients with prostate enlargement with foot Reflexology sessions and put on a high water, no alcohol diet. After 10 days the study reported a 90% success rate and it took 21 days for the slowest recovery.’
Another study by the Bauneholm School of Reflexology in Denmark looked at 46 men with prostate complaints and gave them 13 sessions of foot Reflexology. At the end of the study 65% of the participants reported a reduction in their need to urinate, 67% reported better bladder pressure, 80% reported a reduction in sexual problems and 60% reported an overall improvement of their general condition.
Other studies suggest improvements for male sexual dysfunction with regular foot Reflexology sessions.
Reflexology for Heart Health
Two of the most common male health complaints in a Reflexologist’s office are high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These two conditions can take a toll on a man’s health and should be well monitored by a doctor to prevent a serious health condition, such as a heart attack.
After obtaining a thorough health history a Reflexologist will assess the feet and prepare a treatment plan. While the practitioner will give a full session to touch on all reflexes of a map system there will be certain systems or organs to emphasize depending on the condition. See Reflexology for Cardiovascular Health for ideas on how a Reflexologist may work with various heart and circulatory system disorders.
Remember that Reflexology does not replace the care of a man’s primary care physician. Most doctors recommend an annual exam to stay on top of health maintenance and to observe changes from previous exams. If in doubt whether Reflexology would be a complement to an existing health care regimen it is best to consult with the doctor and Reflexologist prior to an appointment.
References:
- Fertility & Conception: The Complete Guide to Getting Pregnant by Zita West 2003 Dorling Kindersley Ltd.
- Male Factor Infertility, Resolve.org, accessed online June 2009.
- Treatment of Prostatic Hypertrophy with Reflexotherapy, 1998 China Symposium Report, Beijing : China Reflexology Association, pages 50-51.
- Reflexology and the Prostate, by Bauneholm School of Reflexology, Denmark.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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