How to Apply Reflexology to the Feet

Reflexology is usually applied as a massage technique on the hands and feet to target other parts of the body that require healing. Reflexology techniques are used to relieve stress and tension in the neck, back and sinus areas. Reflexology is also thought to be effective for infertility and eating disorders.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Reflexology chart

Learn About Reflexology

1. Learn more about reflexology by visiting the Reflexology Association of America Web site (see Resources below). This Web site contains a wealth of information including a list of reflexology professionals across the United States and links to several articles on the topic.

2. Attend a course or seminar on the study of reflexology. Keep an eye out for courses that are hands-on so that you may apply what you learn. One-night classes are fairly inexpensive, but multi-day courses will cost you more. The Reflexology Association of America lists events you can attend on its Web site.

3. Purchase videos or DVDs about reflexology from a local retailer or online. A simple keyword search for the word "reflexology" will bring up an exhaustive list of media. Listed prices are inexpensive to moderate.

4. Stop by an offline or online bookstore to buy books on reflexology like "Feet First: A Guide to Foot Reflexology" (see Resources below). Reflexology may be listed under Alternative Medicine or Holistic Medicine.

Apply Reflexology to the Feet

1. Identify the areas of the body you wish to target; for example, your temples where a headache may be pounding. Refer to a reflexology chart to find the corresponding foot reflex zones.

2. Use your thumbs and fingers to apply pressure to the correct foot reflex zone. Apply enough pressure to generate a response, but not so much that the pain is constant and severe.

3. Be sure to apply pressure to the entire foot reflex zone. Refer again to the reflexology chart to find your way.

4. Use a reflexology instrument to apply pressure if you don't want to use your hands. The price of such instruments is relatively inexpensive. They include massagers, rollers, balls and probes.

5. Save some cash and be creative with household items. Instead of purchasing a reflexology ball, try a tennis ball or racquetball. Try applying pressure with a marker or the eraser tip of a pencil instead of a probe.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are self-treating, the use of certain instruments may help you reach the target areas of your feet. Instruments include rollers and reflexology socks. Reflexology socks have a map of the foot printed on the bottom to identify target zones. Reflexology socks are included when you purchase the book "Hands on Feet." (see Resources below)

• Reflexologists are not licensed medical practitioners and cannot treat or diagnose medical conditions. Seek the aid of a licensed physician if you are experiencing severe pain or if reflexology treatment causes serious discomfort.

• Avoid reflexology if you are pregnant.

• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.