What is a foot reflexology massage?
If even slight pressure causes pain in the corresponding areas, this is supposed to indicate a disease of the corresponding organ. By massaging the areas, discomfort is supposed to be alleviated and the self-healing powers are supposed to be stimulated.
The foot reflex zone massage is therefore used in addition to conventional medicine. Locally, foot reflexology massage improves blood circulation and peripheral lymphatic drainage.
Foot reflexology has ancient roots
However, foot reflexology was also used in ancient Egypt and is still widespread in many parts of Asia. In recent decades it has been further developed by the German alternative practitioner Hanne Marquardt.
When does one carry out a foot reflex zone massage?
Foot reflexology is intended as a supportive measure, especially in chronic diseases: serve
- pain treatment
- Diseases of the skeleton or musculature
- Sports injuries
- Digestive complaints
- Migraine
- Headache
- Menstrual cramps
- Allergies
Foot reflexology is also used as a complementary therapy for psychological stress:
- Sleep disorders
- Depression
- exhaustion states
- stress
The concept of foot reflexology and its specific effectiveness have not been clearly proven by studies. Foot reflexology should always be seen only as a supportive therapy.
What do you do during a foot reflexology massage?
Throughout the treatment, you should sit or lie comfortably and neither sweat nor freeze.
Roughly, according to the horizontal zones, the toes correspond to the head and neck area, the middle part of the foot to the thorax and upper abdomen, and the heel and ankle area to the organs of the abdomen and pelvis. The vertical zones extend from the head to the feet. Thus, for example, the eyes are located in the vertical zones 2 and 3 and project to the second and third toes.
A foot reflexology massage usually lasts between 20 and 45 minutes two to three times a week, but can vary depending on the symptoms.
To increase your own well-being, you can also give yourself a foot reflexology massage. Diagrams can be used for orientation. Meanwhile, there are even socks that depict the zones on the soles of the feet.
What are the risks of a foot reflexology massage?
- Fractures or wounds on the foot
- Fungal infection
- Diabetic foot
- Rheumatism
- Sudeck’s disease – a disease that causes severe pain
On the other hand, it is assumed that the effect of a foot reflex zone massage could be detrimental in the following clinical pictures due to its influence on metabolism and immune system.
- Infections with high fever
- pregnancies and high-risk pregnancies – certain zones could induce premature contractions
- Inflammations – especially of the vessels
- Psychoses
If you feel sudden sweating, an increase in your pulse, nausea or other unpleasant reaction during the foot reflexology massage, tell your therapist immediately. You should also make sure that the foot reflexology massage is performed by a trained alternative practitioner, masseur, doctor or physiotherapist.
