Contents

Introduction 2
Brief history of reflexology 3
Definition of reflexology 4

Practice of reflexology in Malaysia

The art of reflexology 5
Common “flow” in reflexology treatment of Malaysia 6
Preparation for reflexology 10

Overview of reflexology
Medical perspectives 11
Related research on reflexology 12
Special precaution, attention and advice 13
Myths, rumors and facts about reflexology 14

Conclusion 15

References 16
Introduction

Massage is a form of energy therapy used to correct energy imbalances and stimulate blood flow
to specific areas. Reflexology, a form of energy medicine also known as zone therapy, refers to
the practice of stimulating specific zones and medians on the feet, and occasionally the hands
and ears, to provide specific medical benefits. By massaging these points various ailments and
symptoms may be treated in a safe and non-invasive way. Additional benefits include a sense of
wellbeing and relaxation benefiting the whole body. Reflexology is based on the principle that
specific points on the feet, hands and ears correspond to specific bodily organs. Massaging these
corresponding points indirectly affects the corresponding organs and has the ability to stimulate,
heal, and anesthetize these organs

Reflexology is based on the understanding that certain parts of the body reflect the whole body.
Such parts are referred to as microsystems. In the practice of reflexology these microsystems are
worked to relieve stress and tension throughout the body. Reflexology as a natural healing art has
a very real beauty. Its beauty emanates from its essential simplicity juxtaposed with its effective
potency as a therapy. It is easy to learn, simple to perform and, practiced with commonsense,
completely harmless. Simultaneously, reflexology is proven to produce potent therapeutic
benefits for a wide range of health conditions. In addition, it can produce one of the most
sublime relaxation experiences while it rejuvenates and revitalizes all aspects of our being.

Reflexology has a very long history, over 4000 years. Used to facilitate natural healing, ease
pain, reduce stress and tension, or just for pleasurable relaxation with friends and family
Brief History of reflexology
A visit to the reflexology massage parlor tells me a various origin and story of where reflexology
came from.

Evidence of the practice in ancient culture

was the discovery of wall painting of man
attending another man’s foot, at the tomb
of Ankhmahor at Saqqara, Egypt. The
picture dated about 2330 B.C; Egyptian 6th
dynasty.

“…don’t hurt me. I shall act so you praise me…”

About 5000 years ago, in India whose country is largely shaped by religion, the feet were
thought as unity of the entire universe. Sanskrit symbols depicted on the feet of Buddha were
seen as expression of higher reality. By 100 A.D. Buddhism spreads to China, the monks brought
together the arts of reflexology. Reflexology was practiced in China as part of acupuncture and
moxibustion. A Chinese medical text, Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine, describe it
as the Examining Foot Method. When a Japanese monk studying in China takes reflexology to
Japan upon his return home, it become developed there and become popular; as seen in the
Physicians Temple in Nara, Japan, of 690 A.D.

The modern history of reflexology is rooted in research about the reflex in Europe and Russia
125 years ago by Nobel Prize winner Ivan Pavlov. Reflexology was first coined by the Russian
neurologist and psychiatrist, Vladimir Bekterev, in 1917. Through the discovery of the nervous
system and the response internal organs had to external stimuli “reflex therapy” was born.

At the same time U.S. physician William Fitzgerald discovered zone therapy in the early 1900s
for anesthetic purposes. His colleague, Dr. Joe Shelby Riley, found this work fascinating and
passed the enthusiasm to Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist for Dr. Riley in Florida. Ingham
further studied Dr. Fitzgerald’s findings and developed her foot theory in the early 1930’s. She
brought popularity to the field in the 1940s and 1950s with two publications, “Stories the Feet
Can Tell”, and “Stories the Feet Have Told”.
Definition of Reflexology
Reflexology is a term referring to stimulation of a part of the body; hands, feet or ears to have
effects throughout the body such as in glands, organs and other parts of the body. This part of
stimulation is called as a microsystem; a part that reflects the whole body.

Currently there are 3 types of common reflexology:

1. Foot reflexology
A method of stimulating the reflex area of the feet. It relaxes and rejuvenates each and
every part of the body; including glands and organs. Relaxing the body reduces tension
and stress thus promoting the circulation of blood and lymph. Through the pain,
awareness is heightened as well.

2. Hand reflexology
Similar to foot reflexology; it serves as substitute/alternative approach when the foot is
injured or got amputated. The reason is because the hand is thought to be harder to be
stimulated compare to feet.
But recently, it is been approve that hand reflexology can be as effective as foot
reflexology; bringing a new interest of massaging hand rather than feet.

3. Ear reflexology
New development, derived from auricular therapy or ear acupuncture. Ear reflexology
means an approach of stimulation without using needles. The technique is different
compare to the hand or foot reflexology because of difference in size.
Practice of reflexology in Malaysia

The art of reflexology

Why it can be considered as an art?

1. Reflexology is a science of touch. A delicate art of specific pressure massage techniques

on precise points on the feet or hands based on the premise that reflex areas will
correspond to all body parts. It does not require intervention of anything; such as needles,
syringe, and medications. Only touch

2. In Malaysia, reflexology derived from integration of multiple cultural practices. Evolved

from the combination of the traditional practices of “Urut Kampung” passed down from
generations, Thai massage technique brought by Thai settlers in the northern region;
Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Chinese massage, acupuncture and moxibustion technique and
Ancient Indian ayurvedic practice; not to mentioned modernized reflexology practice
from western world.

3. The art lies with the reflex itself. Reflexology appears as a localized massage to parts of
the body; feet, hands ears or others. What appears to be a local touch is then widespread
throughout the body; giving a holistic treatment rather than just a simple foot massage.

4. A healing touch; without any invasive approach to the body yet reflexology rejuvenate
and promote healing of glands, organs and parts of the body that lies even at the
innermost region of the body.
Common “flow” in reflexology treatment of Malaysia

The assignment brought me to the doorstep of Kakiku Reflexology parlor at SACC mall of Shah
Alam to experience reflexology massage myself. The parlor provides whole range of reflexology
therapy which includes 3 most common practices; Foot reflexology, Hand reflexology and Ear
reflexology. In addition, it also provide face reflexology, body massage (Chinese body-
reflexology), and head and shoulder massage.

My 60 minutes journey of pain starts with feet washing ritual.

The washing lasted about 10 minutes. My

feet were soaked in lukewarm water mix
together with mineral salt. The purpose of
the dark stone inside the basin is to keep
the heat.

When I ask about the feet wash purposes

whether it has significance meaning in the
reflexology, it was meant for hygiene only.

I was then brought to another setting, the

open-area massage room, to be seated
comfortably with my feet slightly raised.

A foot reflexology session usually last for

40-60 minutes; 30 minutes for children
below 8 years old.

My feet are then lathered with lotion to

help with the massage purposes. This is
because of skin is naturally dry thus does
not promote smooth massage movement.
But it doesn’t mean that reflexology needs
ointment.

Reflexology does not require any specialty ointment compare to the “Urut Kampung”. Any
lotion is compatible with the massage.
 There are no specific orders to which
reflex point to start with in reflexology.
As long as whole feet are being
stimulated, anyone can start at any
reflex points of the foot.

The technique of applying pressure is

depending on the patient itself. For
examples, a regular costumer of
reflexology will have more tolerance to
the pain compare to a first-timer
therefore might request for more
pressure than the other. The attendance
uses the knuckles for more strength in
pressure; use distal finger for easier
pressure.

During reflexology session, the pain

stimulated by the pressure is a
manifestation of the reflex area. It
means that the pain can either be a good
or bad signs.

Examples such as;

1) Pain during pressure at diaphragm,

chest and lungs points means that
the respiratory region is working
properly.
2) Pain at abdominal region; digestive
tract means eating-disorder,
unhealthy bowel movement.

3) First-timer usually will experience painful reflex pressures. But it is also normal if they do
not experience any pain at all.
4) Pain can also caused by sensitivity of the pain receptor; pain intolerance.
 .The attendance is explaining the reflex points
while applying pressure to area by his thumb’s
knuckle.

The region he is applying pressure is the

abdominal region including solar plexus,
digestive tracts and heart helping point.

Foot reflexology also includes areas of the calf

and also below the knees

There is no significant importance on applying

massage to the anterior of the calf,

Application of massage at the anterior region is

to help with the relaxation of the feet, and to
reduce tense muscle of the calf thus promoting
circulation.

The calf and knee pose important roles in foot reflexology whereas it is the accumulation of all
stimulation came from the feet.

Muscle of calf can easily be tensed from daily

walks. Tensed muscle does not promote
circulation of blood easily. A massage at calf
helps to loosen the calf, thus promoting more
blood circulation, enhancing foot reflexology
stimulations to reach up the brain.
After the 40 minutes of foot reflexology, it came
to the head and shoulder massage.

The attendance starts with muscle relaxation

move to reduce my tensed shoulder; preparation
to do something more painful as what he told me.

Shoulder and neck area are usually to promote

blood circulation to the brain, enhancing the
function of heart and lungs, and to reduce stress
from both foot reflexology massage and from
life.

The session ended with left and right snap of the

neck to ease the nerve at the both side.

What come to my surprise is the attendance is

actually disabled; a blind man.
Preparation for reflexology

Settings at the reflexology massage parlor

In preparing for reflexology;

 There is no proper equipment for performing reflexology.

 Reflexology can be done at any settings and even as a self-treatment. However it is
advisable to perform it with two persons rather than alone; this is because the effect of the
pressure is lesser, and some of the reflex points are harder to reach.
 There is no special ointment require for performing reflexology. It can be either with or
without oil depending on the type of reflexology and the amount of pressure one’s
considers. If the person needs to apply more pressure, or using knuckles instead of finger,
then please consider using oil; helps with applying pressure and to avoid injury to the
hand.
 Reflexology can also be used together with aromatherapy. Aromatherapy helps to
promote relaxation of the individual, relaxing the muscle thus helping to better
stimulation of the reflex point.
 There is no qualification to perform reflexology. Anyone can do it, with the help of
reflexological chart or a reflexology guide.
Overview of reflexology

Medical perspectives

Reflexology is a wonderfully simple form of natural, complimentary, and holistic healing. It is

the use of special techniques to break up and remove blockages in the body and restore proper
circulation of blood to any given area.

There are more than 7000 nerve endings at the feet, lesser in hands; reflecting the whole body
and every organ there is. Somehow, it can be reliable is to determine any existing problems
inside the body. For examples; problems involving the bladder results of frequent hold of
micturation will cause the area of reflex at the feet to appear inflated. If there is some pain when
applying pressure it is an indication for something more serious stress.

Reflexology helps on management of pain immediately. It can ease simple pain such as headache
effectively by immediate touch of the reflex point of the head and the effect is faster than taking
painkillers.

Rather than treating symptoms, it treats the body as whole. Reflexology is not focused on healing
a single disorder but more to improving the entire body system. Therefore, it helps to faster
healing time and promotes wellbeing

Here are some of the benefits of reflexology

 Reduce stress
 Improve blood circulation
 Alleviate pain
 Balance the nervous system
 Boost lymphatic function
 Stimulate sluggish, congested system
 Improve sleeping patterns
 Increase vitality and energy
 Detoxify and cleanse the body
 Improve skin tone
 Promote self-healing
Related research on reflexology

Premenstrual symptoms (PMS)

A study published in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reported that ear,
hand and foot reflexology is effective in the treatment of PMS.

In the study, 35 women who complained of their distress with PMS were randomly assigned to 2
groups. One group received reflexology treatment while the other was given “fake” reflexology
sessions.

The study reported that women who received reflexology from a trained therapist once a week,
for 8 weeks in a 30 minutes session reported significant decrease in premenstrual symptoms
compared to the other group that was given a “fake” reflexology sessions.

Headache and Migraine

Reflexology could ease migraine and headache. The study conducted by National Board of
Health Council, Denmark (1995) put to test the effectiveness of reflexology on 220 patients who
had headache as their primary health problem. 78 reflexologists were assigned to these patients
for over three-month. After the period, 16% of the patients reported that they were cured, 65%
said that reflexology had helped, and, 18% said their condition were unchanged.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Another benefit of reflexology may be in treating MS. In a study published in Hodder Arnold
Journal, 71 MS patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups in a study to see if reflexology
could help MS patients.

One group received 11 weeks reflexology treatment while another received “fake” reflexology
treatment. The study found that the improvement of patients in the reflexology group was
significant compared to the one receiving “fake” sessions. After 3 months, these patients were
once again examined and it was reported that the improvement “remained significant”. As a
result, the study concluded that reflexology treatment was of benefit in alleviating motor, sensory
and urinary symptoms in MS patients.

Bedwetting

Studies have shown that reflexology may help if you or your kids have problem controlling the
bladder while sleeping. An example is in a 1990 Australian study. In the trial, 70 % of patients
who received a minimum of two reflexology sessions per week had either less urination in urine
volume or less incidence of wetting. However, most patients said that the effect was only
noticeable after the tenth session.
Special precaution, attention and advice

Reflexology is safe to be performed to young and old, male and female. With the development of
knowledge nowadays, it is becoming an increasing interest in this form of natural healing.
However, certain precaution must be taken into consideration for specific group of patient.

This includes:

1. Diabetes
People with diabetes are advised to not practice foot reflexology during the onset of the
diabetic symptoms. There is an after-effect of reflexology whereas the body is trying to
adjust from the stimulation that can be a little too much for diabetic patient.

2. Gout
People with gout are encouraged to do reflexology which can improve blood circulation
throughout the body only after there are no precipitating symptoms of gout presents.

3. Person with cardiac issues

People with cardiac issues should avoid any massage involving the chest and shoulder
reflexology. Patients of arrhythmias should inform the doctors before going to
reflexology. Other than that, people with high blood pressure are encouraged.

4. Avoid reflexology in the first three months of pregnancy.

5. Tell your practitioner what medications you are on. Because the body will detoxify faster,
certain medications may not work as well because they are being carried out of the
system faster.
Myths, rumors and facts about reflexology

Is reflexology a form of massage?

No, Reflexology is not massage though it may feel similar. It is the active stimulation of specific
reflex points on the foot that correspond to certain areas of the body and, as such, it is typically
exempt from the licensing requirements a massage therapist faces.

Does reflexology diagnose?

NO. Reflexology identifies where stress and tension is located in the body. This can be a
valuable assistance to the diagnosis process, but it is not sufficient by itself.
If a reflexology recipient has identified other symptoms that coincide with the stress and tension
identified by reflexology, and then they should consult a licensed health care provider such as a
naturopathic doctor or a medical doctor for a diagnosis.

Does reflexology treat disease?

NO. Reflexologists do not work with a treatment orientations; rather they are oriented to
revitalizing the whole body and hence supporting the body in its own healing process. Frequently
disease is alleviated or managed.

Can reflexology do me any serious harm?

NO. Reflexology is essentially harmless. The therapeutic relaxation that reflexology produces
facilitates the body's release of toxins. On very rare occasions this release of toxins may bring
about perspiration, a nauseous feeling, a headache, or a bad taste in the mouth. These minor
discomforts are evidence of the body's healing process, are very temporary and are not serious.
Should you experience any discomfort after a reflexology session that is not temporary, then you
should assume that its cause is independent of the reflexology and take the appropriate remedial
actions.

Most people enjoy pleasant relaxed and/or energized feelings after a reflexology session.
Conclusion
Reflexology is not just a simple massage. It treats the whole body by pressing specific reflex
points that reflects specific glands or organs in the body. It promotes health by stimulating pain
to the nerve ending; this stimulation improves blood circulation throughout the body.

Reflexology is a very simple therapy that can be done by almost any one. It does not require
special qualification or any medical certification except a few reflexological chart and
knowledge. The movement itself can be studied through books and guide – self-learning.
Reflexology does not require any special settings and equipment, can be done at anytime and
anywhere. It is also a risk-free therapy with no harm can be done to the body.

Reflexology is another examples of complementary and alternative medicine commonly used in

Malaysia. The trend of reflexology circulates more among women rather than men, but it may
make its first debut in the trend of health promoting industries in the near future.
References

Alternative Healing and Holistic Health Information on The Ancient Art of Foot Reflexology,
available at http://www.healthynewage.com/reflex.html (accessed at May 28, 2009)

Hand reflexology, available at http://www.alternateheals.com/relaxation-therapy/hand-

reflexology.htm (accessed at May 28, 2009)

History of reflexology, available at http://pacificreflexology.com/ (accessed at May 27, 2009)

Reflexology, foot and hand massage, available at

http://www.oohoi.com/physical_therapy/reflexology/reflexology.htm (accessed at May 28, 2009)

Reflexology, natural health technique; available at

http://www.naturalhealthtechniques.com/HealingTechniques/reflexology.htm (accessed at May
28, 2009)

Further information;

Kakiku, the Power of Touch. Lot 3f-10 3rd Floor SACC Mall, Jln. Perbadanan 14/9 Seksyen 14,
40000 Shah Alam, Selangor.