Reflexology is an alternative medicine which bases on theory that massage or applying pressure to certain points on the feet, hands or ears can relieve symptoms of certain health problems. The theory is very similar to those in acupressure and acupuncture and also features an invisible life energy which is believed to be responsible for a wide range of diseases and disorders if being blocked, like qi in acupressure and acupuncture.
Reflexologists believe that the “zones” on the feet or hands and ears correspond with the organs of the body and that manipulation of the “zones” unblocks the pathways of the “qi”, rebalances the energy flow and relieves the stress and pain in other parts of the body. The therapy which was developed by William H. Fitzgerald and Eunice D. Ingham in the first half of the 20th century is one of the most popular alternative medicines and is said to be helpful for many conditions including back pain, migraines, sleeping disorders, poor digestion, arthritis, stress-related diseases, etc.
Many people report positive effects but the theory of reflexology is being criticized by the mainstream medical community due to lack of scientific evidence for the existence of the invisible life energy (qi) as well as due to inconclusive results concerning health benefits by stimulation of the “zones”. Reflexology is considered safe but is not appropriate for people who have open wounds or yeast infection on feet. Caution is also recommended if having diabetes or varicose veins and if being pregnant.
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