Health benefits of reflexology

Reflexology, a therapy in which pressure is applied to reflex points on the hands, feet and also sometimes on the ears, can be traced back to the beginning of the last century.

With most reflexologists working on the feet, the first session usually lasts for an hour in which time the practitioner will ask you questions about your lifestyle, moods and general health. Subsequent sessions may last anything between 30 to 50 minutes.

Dr. Chen Qiang, Acupuncturist and Reflexologist at the Gulf American Clinic in Jumeirah, says, "Most people are amazed that the treatment does not feel ticklish and that they are able to relax immediately. Sometimes people experience a feeling of warmth in the area being worked on or a little sensation if a tender spot is discovered, but with each treatment, the area becomes less sensitive.

"It is quite normal to get an immediate response after the first session with many people experiencing a warm glow over the body and sometimes due to the relaxation, one might feel a bit sleepy, while others can feel thirsty and have the urge to go to the bathroom, which indicates the immediate relief of water retention," added Dr. Chen.

Research has proven that reflexology has numerous benefits that have achieved results in the following ways:

- Normalises gland and organ function.

- Improves blood circulation.

- Helps with allergies, eczema and skin problems.

- Problems that are specific to women that include menstrual disorders. It improves the symptoms of 46 per cent of women suffering from PMS.

- Mentally challenged children have shown significant improvement in height, weight, health states, social living abilities, and intellectual development when receiving reflexology.

"These are just some of the benefits reflexology can achieve," says Dr. Chen. Reflexology is a safe, effective and a non-invasive therapy that can address many ailments and disorders.
However, there are some things people need to bear in mind:

- Reflexology cannot diagnose or treat specific disease.

- If you have a foot injury, blood dots, thrombosis, phlebitis, or other vascular problems in your legs, you need to talk to your doctor before you have reflexology.

- If you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, kidney stones, you need to let the reflexologist know.