Hand Reflexology v Foot Reflexology

In this blog I focus mainly on foot reflexology. However it is worth having a look at hand reflexology. The principles and techniques are very similar, it's just the position of the reflex points and the handling which differ. 

Hand reflexology might be useful when a person has health problems with their feet (local infection , broken foot...) or is very ticklish! It's also more practical if you want to practice in public with friends or family.

I've reviewed an article from Teresa Rich who is an advanced reflexology trainer (01202 295910). She also sells training DVDs published by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (www.reflexology-uk.org). Here are some of the differences between hand and foot reflexology she mentioned in the article:

"Our hands are of the upmost importance when it comes to touching, sensing and communicating with others. Perhaps this is why they have such a powerful role in the healing process, whether they are providing a treatment - or indeed, receiving one. Hand reflexology is a very simple yet effective therapy that most clients find pleasant and deeply relaxing. Although some consider it to be the poor relation of foot reflexology, hand reflexology is often more convenient and can be just as effective as its sister therapy.

"It is true that the reflexes are much deeper in the hands and therefore more pressure is required in order to produce the same results as foot reflexology. However, if a gentler treatment is desirable for a particular client, then hand reflexology may be more preferable to foot reflexology as it is generally considered less powerful."

Here is Teresa's description of a treatment session:

"A treatment typically begins with a five-minute massage of the right hand, which includes effleurage, wrist rotations, thumb rotations and knuckle kneading. This is then followed by a 25-minute reflexology routine, where the therapist works the following:

- The neurological system/skeletal system/muscular system;

- Head;

- Arm and shoulder;

- Spine;

- Pelvic area;

- Cardiovascular/lymphatic system;

- Digestive system;

- Reproductive system;

- Urinay system;

- Endocrine system.

The treatment is then concluded with a five-minute routine and all of the above is repeated on the left hand."

Here are some of the benefits outlined in the article:

"As well as improving circulation and well-being, the therapy is said to:

- Benefit conditions that typically affect the hands and wrists, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and RSI;

- Aid recovery from hand injury;

- Help maintain manual dexterity;

- Rejuvenate overused or tired hands.

Many reflexologists have also found that hand reflexology is particularly useful if the client has an injured foot, an infection - such as athlete's foot - ticklish feet, or does not like their feet being touched. It is found that most people can cope with having their hands touched as this is common occurrence in everyday life.

Reflexologists who are presented with a local contraindication on the foot, such as an ingrown toe nail, or who want to reinforce their work on a particular reflex found on the foot, may find it useful to work the corresponding reflexes on the hand towards the end of their treatment."