The use of different approaches, philosophy and methods to treat ill and injured people is as old as man. Healers have been part of society from the very beginning and there are numerous records of remarkable medical procedures that were performed centuries ago. Many of these ancient medical approaches and methods are still popular today. Reflexology is one of them. After reflex therapy Portland residents say that they feel better and much more relaxed.
Reflexology is classified as an alternative form of modern medicine. However, together with disciplines such as acupuncture and chiropractics, reflexology enjoys widespread support from patients across many countries and cultures. It is interesting to note that a significant percentage of practitioners in these fields are also qualified in traditional medicine. Patients are shying away from medication that pose the threat of dangerous side effects and treatment methods that are invasive.
Reflexology involves the application of pressure on the hands and feet. This pressure is applied by the fingers and the thumbs and various specific techniques are employed. No lotions are used and the pressure is applied to very specific areas of the feet or hands. Reflexologists believe that specific forms of pressure will have an effect upon organs elsewhere in the body.
The exact place on the hand or foot where the pressure is applied is of paramount importance. The hands and feet are divided into zones. Each zone is linked to very specific body parts, organs and systems. The arch of the foot, for example, is linked to the liver, stomach, kidneys and pancreas. Patients with problems in those areas are therefore treated by applying pressure on the arch.
Reflexology is not diagnostic in nature and that is why it is most often used as a complimentary treatment method. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Practitioners also claim that it can provide pain relief almost anywhere in the body. It is a popular supplementary treatment for those with cancer and diabetes. Patients suffering from chronic headaches and sinusitis also seem to benefit.
Critics say that there is no scientific basis to this form of treatment and that, despite numerous studies, no evidence has ever been produced to confirm that reflexology can lead to positive medical results. Some critics agree that reflexology can help in the reduction of anxiety and stress at best, but they point out that no medical insurance will cover the cost of this type of treatment.
The field of reflexology is not formally regulated and in most countries practitioners do not have to obtain a licence or register as practitioners. Patients must therefore understand that there is no official body where they can lodge complaints. There are, however, a number of bodies and organizations such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council in the UK that can be joined on a voluntary basis.
Yet reflexology remains highly popular and millions of patients seek treatment every year. Practitioners point out that their methods are totally safe and that the majority of their patients are satisfied with the results of treatment. The final choice, after all, lies with the patient.
Reflexology is classified as an alternative form of modern medicine. However, together with disciplines such as acupuncture and chiropractics, reflexology enjoys widespread support from patients across many countries and cultures. It is interesting to note that a significant percentage of practitioners in these fields are also qualified in traditional medicine. Patients are shying away from medication that pose the threat of dangerous side effects and treatment methods that are invasive.
Reflexology involves the application of pressure on the hands and feet. This pressure is applied by the fingers and the thumbs and various specific techniques are employed. No lotions are used and the pressure is applied to very specific areas of the feet or hands. Reflexologists believe that specific forms of pressure will have an effect upon organs elsewhere in the body.
The exact place on the hand or foot where the pressure is applied is of paramount importance. The hands and feet are divided into zones. Each zone is linked to very specific body parts, organs and systems. The arch of the foot, for example, is linked to the liver, stomach, kidneys and pancreas. Patients with problems in those areas are therefore treated by applying pressure on the arch.
Reflexology is not diagnostic in nature and that is why it is most often used as a complimentary treatment method. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Practitioners also claim that it can provide pain relief almost anywhere in the body. It is a popular supplementary treatment for those with cancer and diabetes. Patients suffering from chronic headaches and sinusitis also seem to benefit.
Critics say that there is no scientific basis to this form of treatment and that, despite numerous studies, no evidence has ever been produced to confirm that reflexology can lead to positive medical results. Some critics agree that reflexology can help in the reduction of anxiety and stress at best, but they point out that no medical insurance will cover the cost of this type of treatment.
The field of reflexology is not formally regulated and in most countries practitioners do not have to obtain a licence or register as practitioners. Patients must therefore understand that there is no official body where they can lodge complaints. There are, however, a number of bodies and organizations such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council in the UK that can be joined on a voluntary basis.
Yet reflexology remains highly popular and millions of patients seek treatment every year. Practitioners point out that their methods are totally safe and that the majority of their patients are satisfied with the results of treatment. The final choice, after all, lies with the patient.
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