2006-10-17 02:53:51 · 6 answers · asked by chase u 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
it works only if you think it does
2006-10-17 03:01:28 · answer #1 · answered by bradthepilot 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No, actually reflexology is very beneficial. It stimulates the organs/areas that are represented in that particular part of the foot/hand/ear. Yep, reflexology is used in all three places. You should not use reflexology but every three days (no relation to the three areas). When you use reflexology it will continue to work for three days. So, twice weekly is a great schedule. Since the foot are the best known form of reflexology I'll stick to that. When you hit a reflex point it will cause a burning sensation ( these are very small-approximately 1/8") the area should be massaged until the burning sensation stops or reduces substantially. As the systems become more healthy the discomfort will reduce and disappear.
2006-10-17 10:12:09 · answer #2 · answered by dulcrayon 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Western scientists and medical professionals consider reflexology to be a pseudoscience and claim there are no reliable scientific studies proving its effectiveness as a medical treatment, or that there is any form of link between specific areas of the feet and the various organs of the body. Furthermore, the 'crystalline structures' rationale is unsustained by current understanding of physiology. There is no scientific evidence that healing can be achieved by it or that the claimed "energies" and their supposed pathways through the body even exist. However, research shows the relaxing and pleasurable nature of massage has many medical benefits.
Prominent skeptic Stephen Barrett, M.D., contends there is no scientific support for any of the theories of Reflexology, and refers to several scientific studies that have shown Reflexology is no better than random chance detecting medical problems.
In a paper titled "Reflexology: A Closer Look", Dr. Barrett concludes: "Reflexology is based on an absurd theory... Claims that reflexology is effective for diagnosing or treating disease should be ignored. Such claims could lead to delay of necessary medical care..."
William T. Jarvis, Ph.D. says: "Reflexology has almost no potential for direct harm, but its ability to mislead well-meaning people into believing that it can be used for screening for health problems, or that it has real therapeutic value could lead to serious problems..."
2006-10-17 12:15:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Nothing wrong with a good foot-rub. Just don't pay some grifter to do it because it is not going to "detoxify" or "cleanse" your system. It offers absolutely no benefits beyond theraputic massage.
Best bet: 1. Make sure your feet are clean. 2. Get significant other. 3. Trade foot-rubs. 4. Everyone is happy!
If you are having serious muscle or foot pains, consult a sports massage therapist or podiatrist.
Check out Penn & Teller's Bullshit season 1 for a great expose on reflexology and chiropractors.
2006-10-17 12:38:27 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
While people continue to receive health benefits, even if this is the result of the placebo effect, massage of the foot can not do any harm. A person should be able to detect if too much pressure is being applied and inform the reflexologist accordingly.
(lizzy?)
2006-10-17 10:56:03 · answer #5 · answered by treb67 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
not suitable for ticklish people. Some patients may experience a healing crisis as the body eliminates toxins and symptoms such as change in sleep pattern, increased perspiration or coughing and sneezing may occur.
can cause sweaty feet in some patients
2006-10-17 10:05:30 · answer #6 · answered by dandyl 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋