How does Reflexology Work?

Reflexes in the body create a quick response from a stimulus.  We are familiar with the reflex action of our hand drawing back from touching a hot object, or the foot swinging when the knee is hit by a pallet, or the pupil of the eye constricting when a light is shone on it.  The neat thing about the feet (and hands and ears) is that they contain reflexes that map to all other areas of the body including glands and organs in a logical anatomical pattern. (Scroll down to see the chart below) Repeated pressure on the specific reflex points creates a response in the corresponding areas of the body.

Reflexology is not a foot massage, but it does integrate relaxation techniques.  The stimulation of the reflex points encourages energy flow throughout the body, as well as increased lymph and blood circulation.  It lowers pain by two mechanisms: 1) encouraging the brain to create more endorphins (chemical messengers similar to morphine) and 2) confusing the body with many sensations so that it interrupts the pain cycle, eases pain and helps the body to relax.