Foot reflexology massage

What is foot reflexology and which ailments can it help with?

Foot reflexology is a special form of reflex zone massage, also known in technical terms as retuning therapy. This involves pressure treatment on certain areas of the feet through the hands. The massage of the foot reflex zones is based on the assumption that there is a connection between the feet and organs via nerve tracts. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) this refers to the flow of Qi. Manual stimulation of the reflex zones are supposed to alleviate pains and disorders. So much for the theory, but how effective is this treatment in real life and what should be considered when performing it? You can find out more about it in the following article.

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Which complaints does foot reflexology help with?

Foot reflexology is usually used as an accompanying measure in the context of alternative or conventional medical therapy. The treatment has shown promise, especially in the case of chronic diseases.

These include, for example:

• Allergies
• Chronic pain of any kind (back pain, headache, joint pain, etc.)
• Menstrual cramps
• Migraine
• Indigestion
• Diseases of the skeleton
• Muscular disorders
• Sinus diseases
• Sports injuries

But the foot reflex zone massage also has a positive effect on the following mental illnesses:

• Chronic stress
• Exhaustion syndrome (burn-out)
• Depressive moods
• Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
• States of inner restlessness (nervousness)

At this point it should be emphasized again that foot reflexology does not replace medical treatment, but only has a supportive effect. If you suffer from the illnesses or symptoms listed above, the first step is to get medical advice. Let your doctor know that you are looking into the subject of reflexology. Ask him whether the treatment makes sense for you from a medical point of view or whether something speaks against it.

How does foot reflexology work?

Foot reflexology is based on the findings of the American doctor William Fitzgerald (1872-1942). He dealt extensively with Indian medicine and became aware of the pressure treatment that has been used by the indigenous peoples for many centuries. Inspired by this knowledge, he developed the zone system in which the body is divided into ten vertical zones. This system is still the basis of reflexology today. Each foot reflex zone is assigned to a specific organ. The best thing to do is to take a look at an infographic explaining the system to get an initial overview of the reflex zones on the foot.

Broken down to the most simple explanation, you can remember the following:

• The toes are the reflex zones of the head area.
• The metatarsus stands for the thorax.
• The heels are linked to areas of the lower back.

Before the actual treatment, your feet will first be examined to see if you have small swellings, redness or injuries. A brief exchange on your medical history is also mandatory before the treatments starts, in order to rule out contraindications for reflexology. If nothing of the kind is present, the soles of your feet are divided into the zones and pressure points developed by Fitzgerald. Depending on your complaints, either stimulating (toning) or calming (sedating) points are pressed on the foot. If you feel severe pain even with slight pressure, this can be an indication of an imbalance in the organ concerned. Foot reflexolgy stimulates the body to activate its self-healing powers. In this way, existing blockades should be gently released.

What does a foot reflexology massage do?

Foot reflexology improves blood circulation and stimulates the peripheral lymphatic drainage. This has a positive effect on your health. Sedative handles are used to relieve pain, e.g. in chronic pain conditions. When the therapist stimulates the corresponding pressure point, it feels very uncomfortable or even painful at first. Now it’s time to be a little brave. The point must be pressed until the pain noticeably dminishes. This is to be interpreted as a sign that the pain-causing blockage has been released. Ideally, after just a few sessions (or even after the first treatment) you will feel a clear and lasting relief of your pain symptoms. Don’t be impatient, if it doesn’t take effect immediately. With some customers, the condition only improves after several sessions. If the problem is not pain but sluggishness of the organs, toning grips are used. The reflex zones are treated in circular movements and with stronger pressure. The desired effect is to induce positive reactions in the inert organ by stimulating the right nerve point.

Who is a foot reflexology massage suitable for?

Basically, foot reflexology is suitable for people of all ages. If carried out correctly, no undesirable side effects are to be feared. However, smaller children could have difficulties withstanding long lasting pressure pain, which should not be underestimated. Treatment for children under the age of 12 therefore usually makes little sense. But even in adulthood there are certain contraindications, in the presence of which foot reflexology may not be performed. This applies for example to customers with the following pre-existing conditions:

• Rheumatism
• (Risk) pregnancies (certain pressure points can provoke premature labor)
• Psychoses
• Diabetes (diabetic foot)
• Sudeck’s disease
• Vascular inflammation
• Thrombosis
• Febrile infections (e.g. flu)

Even with open wounds, broken bones or acute fungal infestation, it is urgent to refrain from foot reflexology. The danger of disrupting the healing process is too severe. It is not important whether it is a serious injury or “just” a small scratch. In short: a foot reflexology massage is only possible with absolutely healthy feet. Do not take the risk of harming your health. A reputable expert will take care not to overlook any injury – no matter how small.

If you suffer from high blood pressure and / or coronary artery disease, please talk to your doctor before you book an appointment for the foot reflexology massage. Heart patients should be careful because dizziness and palpitations can occur during treatment in individual cases.

Who can offer foot reflexology?

If you are considering foot reflexology for yourself, remember to make sure you are dealing with the experts. At Soulhouse you can be sure you will be working with professionals. Naturopaths, physiotherapists and doctors are also allowed and able to carry out the treatment. You can recognize reputable providers by the fact that they inform you transparently about the course of the treatment and the costs incurred. Be skeptical if a provider presents you with reflexology as the ultimate panacea. You should also pay attention to disguised or hidden costs. In addition, do not be too shy to inquire about the certified training of your practitioner and his / her references. On request, we can show you the certificates of our Soulhouse experts. This is your right. After all, it’s about your health. An unskilled person pressing on your feet will hardly have a positive effect on your health. In the worst case, there may even be short-term unpleasant side effects.

How much does a foot reflexology massage cost?

Since foot reflexology is not a scientifically established treatment method, the statutory health insurance companies usually do not cover the costs. If in doubt, you can of course tallk with your health insurance company whether they will grant you a cost subsidy under certain conditions, but this is not the rule. The treatment costs at Soulhouse vary depending on the length, a 60-minute treatment starts with 69 euros. With two to three treatments a week over a longer period of time, of course, a certain amount of costs build up. You should be aware of that, when you decide for this treatment.

How often and for how long should you do a foot reflexology?

A foot reflexolgy at Soulhouse usually takes 60 minutes. Depending on the symptoms, you should have the treatment two to three times a week. Daily use is not necessary and does not have any additional effect. Give your body the time to use the self-healing powers stimulated by the massage.

Can side effects occur with foot reflexology?

As already mentioned at the beginning, foot reflexology does not involve any health risks unless there are certain contraindications (see above). In individual cases, however, the stimulation of the pressure points can make you dizzy. Palpitations and cold sweats are also possible. However, the side effects will subside on their own. There is no risk of long-term effects. Nevertheless, let your expert know immediately if you feel uncomfortable during the massage. In this case, the treatment is interrupted or, if necessary, canceled entirely. Good communication between you and your expert is essential.

Can you do foot reflexology massage yourself?

Yes, that is possible. With a little practice you will be able to find and stimulate the reflex zones with ease. At the beginning it is recommended to use some assisting tools. In well-stocked drugstores, for example, you will find special socks on which the different foot reflex zones are marked. Use these socks for your first attempts. Once you have internalized the position of the reflex zones, you can do it without the socks. The following applies to the massage performed by yourself: Use the pressure sparingly! Always start with your right foot and massage with your thumb in flowing forward movements. Start at the heel and slowly work your way up to the toes. Keep in mind, however, that it is not that easy to endure the pain point for as long as it is necessary for the desired effect. Therefore, a self-massage cannot usually be compared with a professionally performed reflexology massage. Still, it’s a good option for in between.

An alternative for home use are massage boards that are studded with special stones. The stones are arranged in relation to the foot reflex zones. If you stand on the board, you will automatically massage the correct pressure points. In order for this to work, the stone board must of course be tailored to your foot size. 

You want to try a foot reflexology massage now? Then get our app now or use the online booking process and book your individual massage with just a few clicks.