Is reflexology a placebo?
The one thing that reflexology may be able to do is serve as a placebo, in an attempt to relieve basic conditions such as tension and anxiety, as in East Carolina University’s studies, proved.
Is Foot reflexology scientifically proven?
The bottom line. Reflexology may not be a scientifically proven medical treatment for disease, but studies suggest it’s a helpful complementary treatment, especially for stress and anxiety.
Is reflexology medically proven?
Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medical practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet and hands. There is no convincing scientific evidence that reflexology is effective for any medical condition.
What happens when you activate a reflex point in reflexology?
Clients may feel slight pain when muscle groups that are being stimulated contract. When sensitive reflex points are activated, it may feel like a bruise, comforting pressure, and warmth in the corresponding area of the body.
Is reflexology backed up by science?
Previous systematic reviews failed to show concrete evidence for any specific effect of reflexology in any conditions. Due to its non-invasive, non-pharmacological complementary nature, reflexology is widely accepted and anecdotal evidence of positive effect reflexology in a variety of health conditions are available.
How common is the placebo effect?
You may be familiar with the term “placebo” in reference to something called the placebo effect. The placebo effect is when an improvement is observed, despite an individual receiving a placebo as opposed to active medical treatment. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 people experience the placebo effect.
What are the physiological effects of reflexology treatment?
Some consider that reflexology has the potential to assist, indirectly, in cell renewal and wound healing through increased circulation and other purported physiological effects. Reflexology treatment aims to facilitate the person’s innate self-healing processes, not merely suppressing symptoms but possibly also limiting the effects of disease.
Do you notice changes in feet after reflexology?
Experienced practitioners will also notice changes in the feet as a result of the treatments, either visually or on palpation, or the client will report symptomatic reactions to treatment.
Is the art of reflexology based on science?
Reflexology has an increasingly scientific underpinning based on a deepening understanding of the physiological mechanisms of action. However, it is also an art, in which sensitivity and creativity are core and in which the basic concepts of complementary medicine – body, mind and spirit – are fundamental to the care of clients.
Is there a common core curriculum for reflexology?
Reflexology is progressing towards voluntary self-regulation through the Reflexology Forum, which has defined a common core curriculum and the requirements for continuing professional development of qualified practitioners (see Ch. 3 ).