I am constantly surprised by those who see the benefits of reflexology as documented in hundreds of studies from around the world, yet somehow continue to find the practice all so mysterious.
​Sentiments like these "It is still unclear...precisely how reflexology impacts physiological and biochemical parameters" or "illustrates the need for further research into the use, efficacy..." are found in clinical studies confirming the positive effects of reflexology. 

Sometimes we ask ourselves the question why?, and there seems to be no good answer, but other times we have to ponder the thought a little further. Take the question of why Reflexology is even necessary. Why do we need this method to relax, calm ourselves, increase circulation, disburse energy to our organs and systems, and assist in bringing healing to our bodies?

Is something missing, or maybe something has changed in us?

​By some estimates humans began wearing shoes 40,000 years ago, based on fossil evidence that indicates habitual shoe wearing. So, as far back as 40,000 years ago humans lost daily contact with the earth below their feet. If you have ever walked barefoot outside, you know how your feet are stimulated by the dirt, sand, pebbles, stones, and other organic matter on the ground.

When we wear shoes, rather than going barefoot, our feet are missing out on a lot of naturally occurring manipulation, rubbing and massage. This change to the way we live may be a contributing factor to many health issues we experience today. By wearing shoes, we may have short circuited a built in healing system in our feet... 

Shoes are another piece of the puzzle. The human foot is an amazing engineering marvel, but in order for it to do it's job, it must be able to flex. As the foot handles all of the demands we make on it each day, it must be able to stretch, swivel, contract, and expand in many ways.

Most people wear shoes that are too tight, too small, and that cause their feet structural deformities, such as corns and bunions that may require surgical intervention. Feet get larger as we age, and may gain a half size or more every ten years. Maybe you have a friend who wears heels all the time, and swears she's worn a size 5 her whole life, and maybe she has some foot problems too?

So, should we all just kick off our shoes, and go barefoot from now on? This is probably not a viable plan for most people in our modern world with it's many hazards to our now delicate feet. Instead we should wear comfortable shoes, which allow our feet to move, and allow ourselves to go barefoot when it's safe to do so.

​Of course, seeking out quality reflexology to help us stay balanced, and healthy is highly recommended!  : )
​
Perhaps others have made these points in the past, I'm not sure, but it seems plausible to me. How about you?
​
We'd love to here your feedback on this topic. Please comment below.

Keywords: ​pain, complementary therapies, nursing, reflexology, back pain, low back pain, workplace, worker injury

Reflexology reduces the pain, and helps with sleep deprivation symptoms for all patients, so it is no surprise that is works well for RA patients too.

See the study below for more information about ​Foot reflexology as a non-pharmacological nursing intervention for the reduction of pain and sleep deprivation symptoms for RA patients.

Reflexology therapy should be a part of any treatment program for those suffering from neurological disorders of the brain, nerves, and spine. In my opinion, the positive effect that reflexology has on the nervous system makes it an obvious therapeutic choice for these types of illnesses.

The study linked below was published in 2017, and provides proof that reflexology, and relaxation can relieve anxiety, stress and depression for women with MS. (MS) Multiple sclerosis is a progressive autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system having a profound effect on physical function, and quality of life due to a myriad of debilitating symptoms.

Tags: Anxiety, multiple sclerosis, reflexology, relaxation, stress and depression

Migraines are essentially attacks of tension based pain that have a basis in congestion, inflammation, and ineffective circulation in the body. Reflexology is a therapy that is tailor made for relieving congestion, reducing inflammatory response, and bringing harmony to body.​ Reflexology can slow the heart rate, calm the mind, and bring a sense of peace, which is exactly what migraine sufferers need.

The study (link below), which ran from 2013 - 2015 in Zywiec, Poland was reported in the JTCM - The Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and found patients who received reflexology had significant decrease in the extent of migraine attack symptoms.
​                                                                                                STUDY