What is reflexology? Can it relieve stress?

Answer From Brent A. Bauer, M.D.

Reflexology is the application of pressure to areas on the feet (or the hands). Reflexology is generally relaxing and may help alleviate stress.

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.

Reflexologists use foot charts to guide them as they apply pressure to specific areas. Reflexology is sometimes combined with other hands-on therapies and may be offered by chiropractors and physical therapists, among others.

Several studies indicate that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as stress and anxiety, and enhance relaxation and sleep. Given that reflexology is also low risk, it can be a reasonable option if you're seeking relaxation and stress relief.

Dec. 01, 2018 See more Expert Answers

See also

  1. A Very Happy Brain
  2. Acupuncture for back pain?
  3. Alexander Technique
  4. Alternative cancer treatments: 10 options to consider
  5. Aromatherapy: Is it worthwhile?
  6. Candida cleanse diet
  7. CBD safety
  8. Chronic fatigue: Can a natural remedy boost my energy?
  9. Colloidal silver
  10. Colon cleansing
  11. Considering complementary therapy
  12. Cupping therapy: Can it relieve fibromyalgia pain?
  13. Detox foot pads
  14. Diabetes treatment: Can cinnamon lower blood sugar?
  15. Do infrared saunas have any health benefits?
  16. Prickly pear cactus
  17. Ear candling
  18. Ear infection treatment: Do alternative therapies work?
  19. Echinacea: Is it effective for the common cold?
  20. Ginkgo biloba: Can it prevent memory loss?
  21. Herbal supplements: Not risk-free
  22. Herbal supplements: Safety first
  23. Supplements and heart drugs
  24. Huperzine A: Can it treat Alzheimer's?
  25. Integrative approaches to treating pain
  26. Integrative medicine: Different techniques, one goal
  27. Integrative medicine: Find out what works
  28. Kombucha tea
  29. Kratom: Unsafe and ineffective
  30. Kratom and pregnancy: Not a safe mix
  31. Kratom for opioid withdrawal
  32. Learn to reduce stress through mindful living
  33. Massage
  34. Medical marijuana
  35. Meditation 2.0: A new way to meditate
  36. Meditation Application
  37. Mindfulness exercises
  38. Mindfulness practice: Can it reduce symptoms of MS?
  39. Miracle cure or marketing scam?
  40. Natural aphrodisiacs
  41. Natural remedies for depression: Are they effective?
  42. Oil of oregano: Can it treat sinusitis?
  43. Pet therapy
  44. Probiotics and prebiotics
  45. Fish oil supplements
  46. Tai chi
  47. Tai Chi and Cardiac Rehab
  48. Valerian: A safe and effective herbal sleep aid?
  49. Tai chi
  50. Vitamin B-12 and Alzheimer's
  51. Alternative psoriasis treatments
  52. What is hot yoga?
  53. Wheatgrass
  54. Why aromatherapy is showing up in hospital surgical units
  55. Yucca: Can it relieve arthritis pain?
  56. Do zinc supplements shorten colds?