THE REFLEX ZONE

No, reflexology is NOT associated with the New Age Movement! 

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False information abounds on the internet regarding the practice of reflexology, its origins, and its benefits.  As a result, many people mistakenly believe that reflexology is based on New Age principles involving a “life force” or “vital energy” referred to as “qi” or “chi."  This is simply not true. 

While reflexology is often touted as being nothing more than a pampering and relaxing experience, it is in fact a science-based discipline that was developed in the 20th century by three medical doctors. It was first introduced to the U.S. in 1913 by Dr. William Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat surgeon.

Dr. Fitzgerald's techniques were refined in the 1930s by Eunice Ingham, a nurse and physiotherapist. She created charts of the reflexes demonstrating how the entire body is mapped out on the feet.

Dr. Jesus Manzanares, a physician from Barcelona who uses reflexology in his practice, began researching the neurophysiological basis for reflexology in the early 1980s. He has documented 70,000 clinical cases over the course of three decades. Using electroencephalogram (EEG) studies, he was able to prove that the application of reflexology techniques produces changes in brain waves. His research is recognized as the first to scientifically validate the central nervous system as the mechanism for reflexology.

Dr. Manzanares also performed anatomical-pathological studies using biopsies of deposits taken from human foot tissue. These biopsies revealed the congested reflexes in the feet were actually an excess of tangled nerve fibers - not uric acid or lactic acid deposits as previously thought. These congested reflex areas indicate an anatomical or functional imbalance, and working the nerve entanglements with foot reflexology techniques helps to restore homeostatic balance. 

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More recently, a scientific study in the U.K. found that reflexology may be just as effective as painkillers! The researchers are hopeful that reflexology may be used to complement conventional drug therapy in the treatment of conditions associated with pain, including osteoarthritis, backache, and cancer. 

So, the next time someone tells you reflexology is just a bunch of New Age quackery, refer them to the numerous scientific research studies confirming the benefits of reflexology for a vast array of health issues.  

Yes, there is most definitely a difference!  Reflexology is NOT just a "foot rub," and it is NOT a form of massage therapy. 

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Foot massage works through the musculature by using gentle gliding strokes to manipulate the soft tissues of the feet for a relaxing and pampering experience.  Although some massage therapists have a basic understanding of reflexology, typical foot massage techniques are not intended to target the reflex zones. 

Foot reflexology is recognized as a distinct complementary practice within the holistic health field. It works through the nervous system by using specific pressure techniques to systematically target the nerve reflex zones of the feet.  While only the feet are worked, the entire body benefits from a reflexology session. The ultimate goal of reflexology is to facilitate a return to a state of balance among all of the body systems. 

Two methods of foot reflexology have been recognized internationally – the Ingham method (popular in the U.S.) and the Rwo Shur method (popular in Asia). 

The Ingham method focuses on relaxation and balancing the body systems. It is holistic, so all of the reflexes are worked during a 50-minute session.

The Rwo Shur method utilizes a deeper pressure and makes use of the practitioner’s knuckles and a small wooden stick. It focuses on stimulation rather than relaxation. Because of its intensity, each session lasts only 30 minutes.

By combining these two therapeutic methods in each 40-minute session and adjusting the amount of pressure based on the individual, The Reflex Zone offers its clients the best of both worlds!

To understand how reflexology feels, it is important once again to realize that reflexology is not just a simple foot massage.  Reflexology is a therapy designed to improve your body's overall function and to alleviate the symptoms associated with numerous health issues.

Because the goal of therapeutic reflexology is to normalize and balance all of the body systems, firm pressure is used to work the reflexes. Therefore, you may notice that some areas of the feet are particularly sensitive, tender, or even painful during a session. The good news is that any pain experienced on a specific reflex is very brief, lasting only as long as the reflexologist applies pressure.

Our reflexologist's goal is to ensure that any amount of discomfort you experience during a session is bearable, so she will adjust the level of pressure accordingly based on your feedback. While it is true that reflexology is therapeutic in nature and is not meant to be a purely pampering experience, neither should it prove to be a torturous one!

Reflexology is safe and effective for just about anyone, but it is typically not recommended for those with severe varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, or a history of blood clots.

Additionally, clients currently suffering from a contagious illness, foot fracture, fungal infection, or active gout should postpone reflexology sessions until these issues resolve.

SHORT ANSWER - No, we do not accept insurance.

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LENGTHY ANSWER - Regarding health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts, the following statement indicates that reflexology is an eligible expense:  "If used to treat a medical condition, the cost of reflexology is eligible for reimbursement with a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA)."

The main flaw with the above statement is that it blatantly flies in the face of a reflexologist's scope of practice!

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Reflexologists may teach, manage, and conduct research in the science, techniques, and practice of reflexology.  They may also specialize, through experience and/or training, in order to work with specific client groups.  In fact, reflexologists are encouraged to adjust their reflexology plans, techniques, and protocols depending on their training and the health circumstances and goals of their clients.

However, reflexologists are NOT permitted to diagnose or to treat a specific medical condition. To do so would violate the code of ethics and venture far outside the reflexologist's scope of practice. So, even with a Letter of Medical Necessity signed by a physician, it would be unethical to accept HSA or FSA payments for reflexology sessions. For this reason, The Reflex Zone does not accept these payment forms. 

If you have additional questions or concerns and would prefer to speak with the reflexologist prior to scheduling an appointment, please feel free to get in touch by calling, emailing, or using our contact form. The Reflex Zone looks forward to hearing from you!