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Hundreds of books have been written about Reflexology and thousands of web sites on the Internet refer to Reflexology. Yet, there are common misconceptions about the origins of Reflexology, where and when Reflexology was first discovered. What follows is the Documented History of Reflexology.

"Reflexology was re-discovered in the 20th Century by three Medical Doctors."

1917 William Fitzgerald, M.D., USA, in his book, Zone Therapy, postulated the theory of 10 wide vertical zones running the entire length of the body, every part of the body being in one or more of the zones. He is frequently called the father of reflexology.

1924 Joe Shelby Riley, M.D., USA, in his book, Zone Reflex, suggested, for the first time in recorded history, the existence of horizontal zones going across the body, in an orderly arrangement. He also made the first detailed drawings of reflexes or pressure points on the feet and hands, that suggested a shape of the human body, with the tips of the fingers and toes corresponding to the head, progressing downward, with the heel of the feet and hands corresponding to the lower parts of the body. In his book, Dr. Riley included an illustration of the outer ear with just a few pressure points. The full reflex map of the body on the outer ear had not yet been discovered.

1935 Willard Penfield, M.D., USA, a neurosurgeon, documented reflex maps of the human body on the cerebral cortex of the brain. (Medical students study this reflex map in their classes on neurophysiology. Each reflex map is called a homunculus, meaning little man.)

1938 Eunice Ingham, a physical therapist working in Dr. Riley’s office in Florida, wrote the first layperson’s book on Foot Reflexology, Stories The Feet Can Tell, and popularized classes in Foot Reflexology across America. Her work was then continued by her nephew, Dwight Byers.

1975 Mildred Carter wrote and published the first book on Hand Reflexology, Hand Reflexology: Key to Perfect Health

1957 Paul Nogier, M.D., France, also a neurosurgeon, documented for the first time in recorded history a complete reflex map of the human body located on the outer ear. Doctor Nogier is the father of Auriculotherapy, the medical approach of diagnosing and treating illnesses with medical implements.

1959 Nanjing (Nanking) Army Ear Acupuncture Research Team, China, verified Dr. Nogier's ear reflex map and went on to discover a similar yet different ear reflex map.

1972 Paul Nogier, M.D., published the first book on Auriculotherapy, Treatise of Auriculotherapy. In French

1982 Bill Flocco coined the term Ear Reflexology. He had seen Auriculotherapy Charts in Doctor’s, Chiropractor’s, and Acupuncturist’s offices. These medical professionals were licensed to do Auriculotherapy, where they could legally diagnose, prescribe, and use implements to treat specific illnesses.

He reasoned that since working with fingers and thumbs on the reflex maps of the body on the feet and hands was called Foot and Hand Reflexology, working with fingers and thumbs on the reflex map of the human body on the outer ears should be called Ear Reflexology.

1996 Terry Oleson, Ph.D., Published the first book to contain, side by side, all the reflex map points, Master Points, and each Functional Point on the ears discovered by the French, Chinese, as well as some German Points in the book Auriculotherapy Manual: Chinese and Western Systems of Ear Acupuncture.

1982 Bill Flocco, Los Angeles, California, USA, began exploring working with all three reflexology maps - those on the feet, hands and outer ears. During the next several years, he discovered specific advantages to helping people feel better. For example, some health challenges are best addressed by foot reflexology, others by hand reflexology, and yet others respond far better to ear reflexology. It was discovered that working all three reflexology maps - those on the feet, hands and outer ears - during the same reflexology session, helps deliver more effective results for relief of a wide range of health challenges1983 Bill Flocco taught the first Professional Certification Length Course in the Integration of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology to be offered anywhere in the world.

1993 The American Academy of Reflexology, under the guidance of Terry Oleson, Ph.D., and Bill Flocco, conducted and published the first Reflexology Research Study to be published in scientific medical literature, Randomized Controlled Study of Premenstrual Symptoms Treated With Ear, Hand, Foot Reflexology, December issue of the Journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. For more information on this pioneering study go to Reflexology Research.

1994-1999 Bill Flocco spread the Integration of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology to China where he taught over 1800 Foot Reflexologists, hundreds of whom were also Medical Doctors, Hands-on classes in the Integration of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology.

The Flocco Method - Integrating Foot Hand Ear Reflexology, is an approach to reflexology that shows how to use all three reflexology maps - those on the feet, on the hands and on the outer ears - to get far greater results than when working on any one of them by themselves.

During more than 25 years of pioneering the integration of foot, hand and ear reflexology, here at the American Academy of Reflexology, we discovered a new body of knowledge that has expanded the field of reflexology.

The results of knowing how to most effectively integrate foot, hand and ear reflexology into the same reflexology session results in people getting better sooner, the benefits lasting longer, and people reporting remarkably better results.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is an example of a reflexology chart, correlating areas of the feet with organs in the "zones" of the body.

Reflexology, or zone therapy, is a complementary therapy, intended for use alongside conventional medical care and not as a replacement. It is the practice of stimulating nerves on the feet, hands and ears, to supposedly encourage a beneficial effect on some other parts of the body, or to try to improve general health. Reflexology is most commonly performed on the feet, moving on to the hands and/or ears where physical restraints (contraindications), such as veruccas or fractures, apply.

There is no one fixed theory to explain reflexology. All practitioners believe that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that reflexology assists the self-healing process. Some practitioners believe these zones to reflect the energy (Qi) body, and that blockages of energy in the body are reflected through "grit" or "lumps" on the foot. A therapist will apply pressure in the form of relaxing massage to these areas, in order to stimulate the corresponding area and thereby remove blockages in the energy body.

Contrary to some beliefs, reflexology does not seek to diagnose or cure medical conditions - merely imbalances in the life energy or Qi of the body. There are concerns over the efficacy of this treatment, and about the safety of using such a therapy instead of conventional medicine, which have resulted in some studies to investigate reflexology.

Theory

Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the mechanism behind reflexology, although none have been supported by any substantial body of scientific evidence.

The nervous system hypothesis

According to one theory, a reflexologist can break up patterns of stress in other parts of the body through the 7200 nerves in the feet by applying “technique”:

“Pressure applied to the feet generates a signal through the peripheral nervous system. From there it enters the central nervous system where it is processed in various parts of the brain. It is then relayed to the internal organs to allocate the necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen. Finally a response is fashioned that is sent on to the motor system. This message is fed forward to adjust the body's tone or overall tension level. Theoretically, if applied properly, the tone will reset itself to a lower operating tempo. A lower operating tempo means a lessening of stress and less wear and tear on the body's systems.”

The Qi hypothesis

Another proposed theory is that the body contains an energy field, invisible life force, or Qi. While this theory lacks basis in scientific fact, it has been suggested that when this “life force” is blocked or imbalanced at a point in the body, illness in the organs of that area may result. However, stimulation of the corresponding points on the feet, hands or ears can unblock and increase the flow of vital energy to various unhealthy parts of the body and promote healing.

Similarly, blockages of this life force (in the organs of the body) are reflected through the feet, hands and ears in the form of lumps or crystals. A therapist will feel these imperfections and massage directly onto the lump or crystals to dissipate the blockage.

Other hypotheses

Some other proposed explanations include the release of endorphins (natural pain killers in the body, stimulation of nerve circuits in the body ("cutaneo-organ reflexes"), promotion of lymphatic flow or the dissolving of uric acid crystals.

History

This picture may show ancient Egyptian reflexologists, or possibly a Manicure/Pedicure

Some people believe reflexology has been practiced for thousands of years in Asia. It was introduced into the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872-1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and accompanied by Dr. Edwin Bowers. At the time, he showed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on another area.

Reflexology was further developed by Eunice D. Ingham (1899-1974), a nurse and physiotherapist, in the 1930s and 1940s. Ingham found that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and then mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology, and found to be effective for more than just pain reduction.

Modern reflexologists in the United States and the United Kingdom often learn Ingham's method first, although there are other more recently developed methods.

Reported effects

Short term

Reactions to reflexology are demonstrated by case studies rather than statistical conclusions. These will vary between individuals and treatments, but are most commonly reported to include the following:

According to the theories of reflexology, the tingling and tiredness are due to release of built-up toxins and clearing of energy blockages in the body. These feelings may also result from the placebo effect.

In rare cases a client may experience a "healing crisis", which may include headaches, nausea and sinus congestion. This is considered by practitioners to be a result of the body clearing its toxins, and is unlikely to be disabling or to last more than twenty-four hours. Reflexologists believe this experience is a positive cleansing process.

Long-term

Stress can drain the immune system, leading to more frequent cases of illness and infection. Stress can also cause tension, which can cause neck and shoulder stiffness and headaches. Regular relaxation can help prevent stress and improve the overall functioning of the immune system.

It is claimed that reflexology opens pathways to renew ourselves and boost our energy level, immediately after treatment and for several days afterwards. It could keep us free from the feeling of lacking motivation, tiredness, and inability to concentrate. Reflexology advocates say that reflexology not only relieves symptoms, but also acts on improvements of our body as a whole.

Current practice

Reflexologists apply pressure using their thumbs and fingers on "reflex zones" found on the feet and hands, which are said to correspond to the different parts of the body.

Reflexology is a widespread practice in Asia, where foot reflexology is quite popular. Although many people are skeptical about the concepts underlying this practice, its use is spreading - perhaps because it is being taken simply as a relaxing massage therapy.

It should be made clear that reflexology is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions, and is not a replacement for conventional medical practice.

Professional treatment as defined by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT)

All professional treatment will begin with a consultation, to assess the current physical condition of the client and to identify any contraindications.

A practitioner will most likely sanitize the feet before beginning. (During the treatment, clients are only required to relax and expose their feet to the reflexologist.) This is often followed by application of oil or powder with some relaxation techniques and then the reflexology itself. Throughout the treatment, a practitioner will notice any imbalances reflected in the foot, working over those areas for longer to aid the restoration of energetic homeostasis. Some therapists will use hand as well as foot reflexology, some as an alternative if the foot is injured in some way.

Treatment components can also include soft music, essential oil and soft lighting, although components vary considerably between practitioners and each will have their own method of working. A good practitioner will create an atmosphere that will relax and nurture a client.

A treatment can be expected to last about one hour, although this may vary and will be discussed before treatment. The number and frequency of treatments may also be recommended by the practitioner.

Sales of foot reflexology equipment, such as rollers, are increasing rapidly. In addition, many new instruments using the same principle are being marketed, such as whole body vacuum cans. Socks printed with reflex zone foot maps were developed based on reflexology. By wearing the socks, people can easily locate appropriate areas to apply pressure to. Though not generally used by professionals, these "reflexology socks" have gained popularity in Taiwan and China. Inexpensive how-to books enabling people to perform the exercises by themselves are also available for self-help practice. Reflexologists advise caution in applying the techniques to oneself, and would recommend that people should consult an expert before using them if they are pregnant or have a chronic condition.

Contraindications

As with any physical treatment, there are some conditions (contraindications) that could prevent a practitioner from treating a client.

Clients should seek medical advice before a treatment in the case of the following:

Analysis

While scientists have conducted studies testing the effectiveness of reflexology, there are potential research problems that tend to crop up.

Research

Scientists have studied reflexology for the following health problems and found that many of the conditions were improved but that further evidence was needed.

A Korean study on 46 women, 40-64 years of age and suffering from clinical depression and inefficient immune system, were taught self-reflexology for two weeks, which they practiced daily for six weeks. Measures were taken before, during and after the treatment, and patients reported a significant difference in perceived stress, depression, systolic blood pressure and natural killer cells.

A study suggests that reflexology does not affect chronic lower back pain, although reflexology is purported to provide pain relief.

Potential dangers

As with any other physical treatment, from the point of view of the practitioner and the client, it is wise to consider any contraindications before treatment. More of a concern are practitioners who believe they have the ability to screen for health problems or similar. Reflexology has the potential to be harmful indirectly if:

Supporting Organizations

If a client is concerned about the safety of the treatment and the credibility of the practitioner, they should contact a professional body. They can provide a list of practitioners in the potential client's area upon request, and can confirm the authenticity of a practitioner on behalf of a client.

The FHT, based in the UK, is an organization to assist holistic therapists in their practice and to regulate the services given; the FHT strongly encourages the use of full and detailed consultations before treatment. Their affiliated Therapy Insurance Service (TIS) does not cover those in the third trimester of pregnancy, for example.

In the case of a recognized serious physical illness, all professional organizations will require written permission from a general practitioner in order to go ahead with the treatment; this is not just for the client's benefit but that of the practitioner, who wishes to avoid causing harm to the client.

Reflexology as a pseudo science

Current scientific research cannot support or refute the existence of life energy or Qi in the body through the scientific method, suggesting that it is a pseudo science. This does not validate or invalidate assertions made about its healing properties, though it does force more scrutiny towards the topic.

Reflexology fails to conform to the scientific method because it is extremely hard to create a test that conforms to personal feeling, emotions, pain, and overall sense of well being. This creates an untestable hypothesis.

Probably the biggest concern regarding the scientific basis of reflexology, and the primary reason it is sometimes dubbed a pseudo science, is that reflexology is a “no-fail” system. If something is found at an alleged reflex point it is reassurance or "proof" that the system is valid; if nothing is found, the system is still purported to be valid because it merely detects imbalances in the energy of the body, which may or may not correspond to physical conditions or illness.

Reflexology slippers with magnets

History of Magnets and Magnetic Therapy

It appears that magnet was discovered several hundred years before Jesus Christ. One story of its discovery is very interesting. There is a story according to which, a vast area called Magnesia in Asia Minor was enriched with black iron ore composed of iron and oxygen – Fe3O4 (Ferrosoferric oxide). The local inhabitants found the ore having powers of attraction and named it “Magnetite” as it was first found in Magnesia.

Magnes, a shepherd boy, about 2,500 years ago, was walking, wearing an iron piled sandal, on Mount Ida and suddenly he found the movement was not easy. His sandal got stuck on the rocks and for every step he had to take; he had to put in extra effort. The rock, in fact, was full of “lodestones”, which had intrinsic power of attraction. The stone, as the story goes, was named after that shepherd boy Magnes, and later came to be known as “Magnet”.

It is seen that Aristotle, Plato and Hanon (850 BC) were talking about lodestones in their works.

Later about 200 years ago, Chinese sailors used magnets as a compass, and called it ‘leading stone’. Chinese medical practitioners were of the view that the all pervading magnetic field also plays a part in harnessing our natural physical energy and has a role to play in safeguarding living beings from any ailment. To them it is “Wei chi” – defense energy or protective energy.

It was a Physician from Switzerland – P A Paracelsus – 1493-1541 – who recognized the therapeutic powers of magnets. He made a relevant observation, which is, “…that which constitutes a magnet is an attraction force which is beyond our understanding, but, which nevertheless causes an attraction of iron and other things. Magnetic treatment was useful in all inflammation, influxes, and ulcerations, in diseases of uterus and bowels, in internal as well as external diseases…”

Dr William Gilbert of England (Colchester) 1540-1603 AD, made a scientific study of electricity and magnetism and wrote a path-breaking book entitled “De Magnet”.

An English scientist, Michael Faraday (1791-1867 AD), made extensive discoveries and has come to be known as the founder of Biomagnetics. He is the one who worked to point out that all matter is magnetic and they are either repelled or attracted by a magnetic field.

The Chinese called the magnet ‘Chu Shi’ the French called it ‘Aimant’ whereas the Greeks called it ‘Magnetis’.

Dr Mesmer (1734-1815), who was known to be the father of hypnotism, in fact “mesmerism” came to be known from his name, Father Hall of Austria, Dr Samuel Hahnemann, the father of Homoeopathy are some of the pioneers who contributed their might for the development of Magnetic Therapy.

Magnetic therapy has been recorded as being used historically in many different civilizations as a natural healing technique. The Get Slim Slippers with magnets perform a specific function and will enhance the benefits to your health.

Our magnetic products have both beauty and health benefits, they increase blood flow and they increase the oxygen level in the body, this helps bring pain relief to areas of the body where it is needed. This helps alleviate pain in arthritic joints especially, but is beneficial in a large range of other problems as well. The increased oxygen in the stimulated circulation relaxes the muscles so tension is decreased as well as feelings of depression and stress. This is accompanied by a heightened sense of well-being. Magnets help to flush out toxins in our body that especially occur where there is inflammation. Magnets are also effective in the physical area where they are so they will help your tired feet feel better.

Reflexology slippers are mobile so you can you enjoy all the benefits of cutting edge magnetic therapy where ever you go. This allows you to ease your pain without having major interruptions in your life and routine. You also get all the benefits without having to go for expensive sessions with a magnetic therapist, Reflexologist or having to take expensive courses of drugs, which can also have harmful side effects.

Women, be sure to take a break from the magnets for those few days a month during menstruation. You may use the Get Slim Slippers without magnets during those days.

Human body is unique. It consists of cells, which are a minute mass of protoplasm containing a nucleus. Protoplasm, which is synonymous to Cytoplasm, means the complex chemical compound constituting the main part of the living substance of the cell, other than the contents of the nucleus. It has now been established that each human cell is a small magnetic piece and this property, naturally, passed onto all the organs, all of them are composed of cells and tissues. And, tissues are a collection of cells or fibers of similar function forming a structure. Body fluids contain various ions such as Potassium ion (K+), Chloride ion (Cl), Phosphoric ion (PO4) Sodium ion (NA+) etc.

Ion is a charged atom or radical. In electrolysis – electrolysis means chemical decomposition by electricity with migration of ions. Ions in a solution have a tendency to pass to one or the other Pole. Ions are conductors and the electric current passing through them are bound to be associated with magnetic fields around them. This electromagnetic field is the basic premise on which Magnetic therapy is built. This magnetic field has a proclivity to fluctuate. It is mind boggling to note that organs like brain emit a peak magnetic field in the region of 3,00,000 kilo-gauss! This is when the person sleeps. At normal hours, the value of magnetic field may differ. So, there is an average magnetic value of each organ of the body available. If any organ developed any ailment, immediately its magnetic field gets disturbed, which naturally tells upon its magnetic values. The beauty is that this bio-magnetic field can be induced to regain its normal value by the application of magnets on the affected organ. This is the essence of magnetic therapy.

Magnetic Therapy is said to have soothing effect on the cells, tissues and nerves, when applied to an affected part and cause to lessen the pain, stiffness, soreness or swelling. Magnetic Therapy acts:

1. Use "Slippers Without Magnets" during pregnancy. You may begin to wear magnets Six weeks after your delivery, starting at 15 min./day. They are designed to strengthen your uterus and abdominal muscles.

2. Do not use magnets during the menstrual period – take a break for those few days each month or use “The Get Slim Slippers Without Magnets".

3. For severe Heart or Hyperthyroid conditions, use “The Get Slim Slippers Without Magnets".