Karen* started seeing a reflexologist to see if it would help with her symptoms of multiple sclerosis after hearing about a research project on reflexology and MS. She had lost most of the feeling in her lower legs and feet which was greatly affecting her balance and ability to drive.
After her third foot reflexology appointment, Karen accidentally stepped into a puddle of cold water and for the first time in ten years noticed the sensation of cold, wet feet. She decided to continue her bi-weekly appointments and continued to gain sensation in her feet and lower legs as well as noticing other symptoms subsiding or becoming more manageable. When she went for a pre-scheduled MRI to monitor her condition the doctor was shocked; multiple lesions on the brain scan appeared smaller and some had completely disappeared when compared with the previous year’s scan. The doctor encouraged her to keep up with her regular visits to the reflexologist.
Reflexology’s Health Benefits
The body receives wide-ranging benefits from a reflexology session as the practitioner is working points for the entire body, not just a specific area or region. Every one will heal differently but here are some common benefits one might see with a single session or a series of reflexology sessions:
- relaxation – typically during and after a session
- improved circulation – blood flow, lymphatic drainage and a general reduction of edema or swelling in the extremities
- reduction in pain – Studies point to reflexology helping with low back pain, migraines and other chronic pain complaints.
- digestive response – Typically the client will experience more frequent bowel movements following a session, so reflexology is popular for those suffering from constipation or a sluggish digestive system.
- enhanced immunity – Some use reflexology throughout cold and flu season to improve their chances of staying well and supporting the immune system.
In her book The Art of Reflexology [1992 Element] Inge Dougans writes “elderly people with no specific complaint will benefit from a couple of courses of treatment a year to keep bodily functions toned.”
How Often to Receive Reflexology for Optimal Benefits
Ann Gillanders, author of The Busy Person’s Guide to Reflexology: Simple Routines for Home, Work and Travel [2002 Barron’s] notes that self-help reflexology is great to do at home between sessions but recommends a monthly session for general prevention. She writes “preventing illness is just as important as curing illness, and as a general rule a healthy person should aim to receive a full reflexology foot treatment at least once a month.”
Sources:
Author's own case study, name changed to protect privacy
Gillanders, Ann, The Busy Person's Guide to Reflexology 2002 Barron's
Dougans, Inge, The Art of Reflexology
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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