What Should I Know About Reflexology. When most people consider getting massage in order to receive some type of medical benefit from the procedure, they think that all that they will be able to accomplish is an increased level of circulation, a decrease in muscle tension, and general feelings of relaxedness.
However, there are many different types of massage therapy that one may consider undergoing in order to reap health benefits, some of which offer benefits beyond those of the traditional massage.
In this article, well examine a type of massage that is known as reflexology, which has been shown to be helpful in relieving many different types of symptoms.
Reflexology is a type of massage therapy that involves the massage with the fingers and thumb of various points located on the feet. Practitioners of reflexology state that the different points on the foot correspond to different organs and areas of the body, and that by stimulating the points on the feet, greater relief will be felt in the determined area.
They also state that the main focus of reflexology isnt the relief of symptoms it is the promotion of the balance of energy that is found throughout the human body.
It is a practice that has been performed for thousands of years, and it was only brought to America in the year 1913. In that year, William H. Fitzgerald shared the practice with other doctors by demonstrating that applying pressure to the feet helped other areas of the body.
The benefits that are claimed to be offered by reflexologists include several short-term and long-term positive effects on the body. Feelings of relaxation are increased during and after acupressure treatment, and feelings of increased energy are often experienced afterwards.
Quick Facts About Massage Therapy
The medical benefits Of Massage Therapy. The Placebo Effect
The most important, and least controversial, benefit, is the placebo effect. This refers to the fact that if you are receiving treatment, you are more likely to get better even if the treatment does nothing to you. This form of 'mind over body' health improvement (your health improves because you think your health is improving) is powerful, and has been demonstrated in clinical trials. It is particularly significant in areas such as pain relief, where the symptoms experienced are a blend of the physical and psychological.
So, any form of treatment in which the patient believes can benefit them. But massage probably has advantages beyond this. When we feel pain, our instinct is to touch the affected part of the body and this seems to bring at least a minimal level of relief. If touch can relieve pain in this context, then why not also in massage.
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Long-term effects of reflexology include a boosted immune system, which scientists believe may be linked to a lower level of stress in the afflicted individual.
Several studies have been conducted that have helped consumers to gauge how practical of an option reflexology is for treating specific symptoms with some very promising results.
Anxiety, PMS, headaches, and cancer pain have been shown to be lessened by reflexology.
There are some people who state that reflexologys benefits are more of a placebo effect than anything, and it is something to consider.
While studies have shown that reflexology is helpful in treating certain symptoms, you may be able to receive the same benefits if you were to just believe that the symptoms were going to go away on their own.
However, many people swear that reflexology is helpful for getting rid of the problems that ail them.
Theraputic Massage Terms and Facts.
Massage is a perfect anti depressant. This is because it increases the level of endorphins.
Which is also another reason why husbands should aim to give their wives regular feet and back massages.
Endorphins are aphrodisiacs. |
If you are considering undergoing reflexology treatment in order to help a specific problem with your health, be sure that you do plenty of research and realize exactly what types of benefits you may receive from reflexology treatment.
Remember that there are many different types of massage therapy that can be helpful for relieving whatever problems you may have, and that reflexology is only one of many options. Your health is your responsibility be sure to take care!
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