Where did reflexology come from?
Reflexology is a therapy that dates back thousands of years. It can actually be traced back to the ancient civilisations of Egypt, India, Native America and China.
When was reflexology founded?
Reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872–1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Edwin F. Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body.
Who is referred to as the mother father of reflexology?
The Origins of Reflexology Modern reflexology developed in the early 20th century largely due to the works of Dr William Fitzgerald and physiotherapist Eunice Ingham, who are considered the father and mother of reflexology.
Is there any science behind reflexology?
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.
What is the theory behind reflexology?
Reflexology is the application of pressure to areas on the feet (or the hands). The theory behind reflexology is that areas of the foot correspond to organs and systems of the body. Pressure applied to the foot is believed to bring relaxation and healing to the corresponding area of the body.
Who is considered to have contributed most to modern reflexology?
But it is Dr William Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose and throat specialist, who is revered as the forefather of modern reflexology. He developed zone therapy in the early 20th century, and soon reported that he could produce a natural anaesthesia by clamping his patients’ fingers.
Who invented foot reflexology?
William H. Fitzgerald
In the United States, William H. Fitzgerald, MD, who is frequently referred to as the father of reflexology, wrote in 1917 about ten vertical zones that extended the length of the body.
Is foot reflexology better than hand reflexology?
The results indicated that foot reflexology was more effective than hand reflexology in reducing pain. The difference was significant three and 24 hours after the intervention.
What are the four basic reflexology techniques?
There are four basic reflexology techniques you need to learn. These actions are creeping, rotating, spinal friction and achieving the right pressure when carrying out hand reflexology. The techniques are easy to pick up and you can start to heal yourself straight away.
Why do I feel sick after reflexology?
If your body is dehydrated it causes your liver and kidneys to work harder. You may experience a feeling of nausea, headache or flu-like symptoms as your body struggles to process the increased amount of metabolic waste.
What is reflexology and how does it work?
Reflexology focuses on reflex maps of points and areas of the body in the feet, hands, and ears using unique micromovement techniques, such as thumb or finger walking, with the goal of creating a response throughout the body. Massage therapists work “from the outside in,” manipulating specific muscle groups or fascia to release tension.
How to become a reflexologist?
Postsecondary Education Aspiring reflexologists can complete a certificate or an associate’s degree program in massage therapy that includes courses in reflexology.
How often to have reflexology?
As a general rule of thumb this is usually weekly for between four to six weeks, after which it may be reduced to fortnightly or even monthly visits (as a maintenance programme). It very much depends on the clients health and how they feel.
What is reflexology treatment?
Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better. The theory is that this eases stress, and that helps your body work better.