Modern medicine often relies on advanced technology and tools, precision instruments and medication. Yet the practice of medicine is as old as mankind itself. The very earliest records tell of healers in various different disciplines of ancient medicine. Most of these disciplines survive to this day and some, like reflexology are extremely popular. After reflex therapy Portland patients often report that the symptoms that plagued them simply disappeared.
Reflexology is classified as an alternative form of modern medicine. However, together with disciplines such as acupuncture and chiropractics, reflexology enjoys widespread support from patients across many countries and cultures. It is interesting to note that a significant percentage of practitioners in these fields are also qualified in traditional medicine. Patients are shying away from medication that pose the threat of dangerous side effects and treatment methods that are invasive.
Reflexology involves the application of pressure on the hands and feet. This pressure is applied by the fingers and the thumbs and various specific techniques are employed. No lotions are used and the pressure is applied to very specific areas of the feet or hands. Reflexologists believe that specific forms of pressure will have an effect upon organs elsewhere in the body.
The hands and the feet are divided into specific zones and each of these zones are directly related to specific body parts and organs. For example, problems with the sciatic nerves, lower back and the intestines are treated by applying pressure on the heel of the foot. Treatment opens an energy flow between the heel and the diseased or affected organs and body areas, stimulating relief or healing.
Reflexology is not diagnostic in nature and that is why it is most often used as a complimentary treatment method. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Practitioners also claim that it can provide pain relief almost anywhere in the body. It is a popular supplementary treatment for those with cancer and diabetes. Patients suffering from chronic headaches and sinusitis also seem to benefit.
There are those that dismiss reflexology as a worthless discipline and they are very quick to point out that no study has ever produced a shred of evidence that it actually produce positive health benefits. They also point out that other alternative fields, such as chiropractics are covered by medical insurance, but not reflexology. This, they say, is proof that reflexology is not remotely considered as even alternative medical treatment and that it should be treated as just one form of relaxation.
The field of reflexology is not formally regulated and in most countries practitioners do not have to obtain a licence or register as practitioners. Patients must therefore understand that there is no official body where they can lodge complaints. There are, however, a number of bodies and organizations such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council in the UK that can be joined on a voluntary basis.
Yet reflexology remains highly popular and millions of patients seek treatment every year. Practitioners point out that their methods are totally safe and that the majority of their patients are satisfied with the results of treatment. The final choice, after all, lies with the patient.
Reflexology is classified as an alternative form of modern medicine. However, together with disciplines such as acupuncture and chiropractics, reflexology enjoys widespread support from patients across many countries and cultures. It is interesting to note that a significant percentage of practitioners in these fields are also qualified in traditional medicine. Patients are shying away from medication that pose the threat of dangerous side effects and treatment methods that are invasive.
Reflexology involves the application of pressure on the hands and feet. This pressure is applied by the fingers and the thumbs and various specific techniques are employed. No lotions are used and the pressure is applied to very specific areas of the feet or hands. Reflexologists believe that specific forms of pressure will have an effect upon organs elsewhere in the body.
The hands and the feet are divided into specific zones and each of these zones are directly related to specific body parts and organs. For example, problems with the sciatic nerves, lower back and the intestines are treated by applying pressure on the heel of the foot. Treatment opens an energy flow between the heel and the diseased or affected organs and body areas, stimulating relief or healing.
Reflexology is not diagnostic in nature and that is why it is most often used as a complimentary treatment method. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Practitioners also claim that it can provide pain relief almost anywhere in the body. It is a popular supplementary treatment for those with cancer and diabetes. Patients suffering from chronic headaches and sinusitis also seem to benefit.
There are those that dismiss reflexology as a worthless discipline and they are very quick to point out that no study has ever produced a shred of evidence that it actually produce positive health benefits. They also point out that other alternative fields, such as chiropractics are covered by medical insurance, but not reflexology. This, they say, is proof that reflexology is not remotely considered as even alternative medical treatment and that it should be treated as just one form of relaxation.
The field of reflexology is not formally regulated and in most countries practitioners do not have to obtain a licence or register as practitioners. Patients must therefore understand that there is no official body where they can lodge complaints. There are, however, a number of bodies and organizations such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council in the UK that can be joined on a voluntary basis.
Yet reflexology remains highly popular and millions of patients seek treatment every year. Practitioners point out that their methods are totally safe and that the majority of their patients are satisfied with the results of treatment. The final choice, after all, lies with the patient.
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