Are There Any Health Conditions For Which Reflexology Should Be Avoided?

Obviously, open sores to the hands and/or feet would be a reason to avoid reflexology. Acute injuries also must be handled with care. Anyone with active blood clots should avoid rubbing near the area of the clot. Burns, wounds, gout and infections to the hands or feet should also limit the use of reflexology. Lower extremity swelling or chronic skin changes that are a result of vascular problems to the feet should also limit this form of therapy. Recent removal of a cancerous tumor or other surgical procedures, such as wart removal, also make reflexology inadvisable. There is some evidence that rubbing of the feet during pregnancy might stimulate contractions, and so should be avoided in the later stages of pregnancy.

Is There A Governing Body That Oversees Or Credentials Practitioners Of Reflexology?
The American Commission for Accreditation of Reflexology Education and Training (ACARET) sets the standards for education required for the reflexology profession. It also credentials those involved with educating students of reflexology. The American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) has a three-part examination process to ensure the practitioner has met the standards set by the board. In order to be certified through ARCB, a minimum of 110 hands-on training hours must be completed.

To remain certified by the ARCB, an annual fee is collected and 12 hours of continuing education every two years must be documented. This certification is voluntary and not mandatory to practice reflexology.

However, certification is not a license to practice reflexology. Laws regarding licensing to perform massage and touch therapies are set at the local and state level.

How Does One Get In Touch With A Practitioner Of Reflexology?
The ARCB and the International Institute of Reflexology have a referral lists on their websites, or visit www.reflexology-research.com.

What Is Dr. Weil’s View On Reflexology?
Dr. Weil thinks hand and foot reflexology is of great value for relieving generalized foot pain caused by cramped or chronically tight muscles. He also believes that, like other forms of massage, it may release endorphins, leading to pleasurable, relaxed states.

Until better evidence is published in peer reviewed journals, he remains skeptical of claims that by massaging or applying pressure to specific points on the hands or feet, a reflexologist can alleviate problems in corresponding organs or other systems throughout the body. He has seen no evidence showing that reflexology is effective for pain or any health problems unrelated to the feet and hands. He urges caution with regard to claims that reflexology can cleanse the body of toxins, increase circulation, promote weight loss, or successfully treat earaches, hemorrhoids, emphysema, heart disease, thyroid disorders or any other health condition.