Reflexology and Diagnosis


Can reflexology be used for diagnosis? Or does it really matter?

Several studies have tried to discredit reflexology by testing the diagnostic abilities of reflexologists. Reflexologists aren't very good at diagnosing according to these studies. Therefore the researchers have concluded that there is nothing to the theory that the body whole is mirrored on the body part (feet or hands). This leap in logic is flawed according to other studies for a number of reasons.

The first problem is that reflexologists don't diagnose if they are practicing legally. So it isn't something that is routinely practiced. Even if it was a part of reflexology practice there isn't much chance that a reflexologist could outstrip a blood test, x ray or other means of medical diagnosis. And what is the point?

Entered three studies. One is from the Israeli's who have found that will reflexologists aren't that good at specific diagnosis but when it comes to diagnosing the systems of the body the reflexologists do pretty good. More

Medical diagnosis is looking for the exact cause but if you backup a little ways disorders often are systemic. I have often felt that reflexology's value is in the overall picture you get. Assessing the body as a whole is quite valuable. It will be used in the future to look for precursors of upcoming problems.

The next two studies involved blood flow. One is for the kidneys and the other the intestines. They are double blind randomized controlled studies or the "good stuff". They had reflexologists work on three different areas without knowing what areas were being tested. The researchers used a device called a doppler sonogram which measures blood flow. Kidney Intestines

The results were positive in both studies. So instead of testing the diagnostic abilities of the reflexologists should the question have been is there a physiological link from foot to body? Now that is profoundly valuable.

Posted: Tue - November 18, 2003 at 05:19 PM        

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