| Origin | Developed in the United States from "zone therapy", introduced by physician William Fitzgerald in 1913. In the 1930s, nurse and physiotherapist Eunice Ingham mapped reflex points for the whole body onto the feet and renamed it reflexology. |
|---|---|
| Feel | Firm but comfortable thumb and finger pressure, "thumb-walking" and holding on the feet, usually without oil. Most people find it calming. |
| Pressure | 2–6 / 10 |
| Used for |
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What it is
Reflexology uses the thumbs and fingers to apply pressure to specific areas of the feet, and sometimes the hands or ears. Reflexologists use charts that divide the feet into zones and “reflex points” said to correspond to organs and body parts, for example the toes to the head, or the arch to the digestive organs.
What the evidence says
The organ “maps” are not supported by evidence. There is no known anatomical or nerve pathway linking a point on the foot to a specific organ.
Two systematic reviews by the same research group looked for evidence that reflexology treats any medical condition. The 2009 review (18 trials) and the 2011 update (23 trials) both concluded that the best evidence does not convincingly show reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition. Trial quality was often poor, and most of the better trials were negative. An Australian Government review in 2015 also found no clear evidence of effectiveness, and reflexology was later removed from private health insurance rebates.
What is reasonable to say: reflexology is a form of foot massage, and like other massage, many people find it relaxing and pleasant.
How to practise honestly
- Offer reflexology for relaxation, which is what the unit Provide reflexology for relaxation (Provide reflexology for relaxation) is about.
- Do not tell clients that tenderness in a foot area means a problem in an organ, and never suggest reflexology can diagnose or treat a condition. This could delay someone getting medical care.
- Refer clients with symptoms to their GP.
Safety
Use normal screening. Avoid pressure over broken skin, infections such as tinea, swelling, recent foot injuries and varicose veins. Take care with clients with diabetes or reduced foot sensation. Wash or wipe the feet (or have the client do so) and your hands before you start.