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Reflexology

Reflexology

Reflexology is the application of pressure, usually to the feet, in order to gain health benefits. Integrative Medicine & Palliative Care specialists at Riley at IU Health offer reflexology as a relaxation technique. Most patients who experience reflexology feel reduced anxiety, depression and pain.

Reflexologists may use their hands or other items, such as a rubber ball or a flat wooden stick, to apply pressure to the feet. The practitioner uses a chart that guides him or her in applying pressure to particular places on your child’s foot. Certain places on the foot correspond to certain organs or systems of the body. When pressure is applied to these places, it can reduce pain and other symptoms.

Reflexology is a noninvasive, hands-on therapy that does not interfere with any medical treatment your child may be undergoing.

What to Expect

Reflexology involves the following steps:

  • Your child will not have to change into a hospital gown. He or she may wear any comfortable clothing, but shoes and socks will need to be removed.
  • Reflexology is usually done lying on a table or sitting in a chair with the feet propped up. Treatments can also be given at the bedside (inpatient or outpatient).
  • Before treatment begins, the practitioner will explain how reflexology works and examine your child’s feet.
  • Next, the practitioner will begin applying pressure to each of the reflex points, working on one foot at a time.
  • The practitioner may take notes during the treatment in order to help guide future reflexology treatments.
  • Reflexology is not painful. Your child will feel firm pressure during the treatment, but that is all.

You can expect your child’s reflexology treatment session to last around one hour. Following a treatment session, your child should drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the body.

Key Points to Remember

  • Reflexology is a noninvasive, hands-on therapy that does not interfere with any medical treatment your child may be undergoing.
  • During reflexology, pressure is applied to certain places on the feet, which may reduce pain and other symptoms.
  • Reflexology is not painful. Your child should feel relaxed during and after reflexology treatment.
  • After reflexology, your child should drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the body.

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