REFLEXOLOGY: THE HANDS,HEALTH BENEFITS & HOW IT WORKS

Ken Orr, LMT & Reflexologist

(Fourth of a Series on Reflexology: Ancient Healing Art & 21^st Century Science)

The focus of the first three articles was a brief history of Reflexology (West and East); proven health benefits; how it works; the kinship/contrast between Zone Therapy and Meridians; Reflexology treatments and health issues; some body systems and the human organism. Contact the author to obtain a copy of any article.

The ideal Reflexology treatment includes both the feet and hands. The feet, hands, eyes and ears contain mapping of the entire body. Each has reflex points at locations that correspond to glands, organs and body areas. While the feet are one of the most highly energized areas of the body and almost always the main focus of a Reflexology session, an intense emphasis on the hands can promote similar health benefits. In many cases, it is effective to have a treatment concentrated exclusively on the hands. (SEE HAND MAPS & ANATOMY; FOOT ANATOMY)

The hand has 27 bones, 30 individual muscles, 1000 miles of nervous system, tendons, ligaments and numerous reflex points that correspond to glands, organs and specific body areas. By comparison, the foot has approximately 3,500 nerve endings, 28 small bones, 114 ligaments, 20 muscles and numerous reflex points.

Case histories of clients indicate that hand treatments are most effective for a variety of health conditions. For example, our massage business has worked with numerous companies, special events and other venues in the DFW area. Through giving Reflexology sessions (hands and feet) and combining Reflexology treatments with chair or table massages, thousands of clients have experienced the benefits of Hand Reflexology.

What are the most common health issues associated with the workplace? The obvious one is mental and emotional stress. A largely neglected issue is computer strain. Ergonomic measures (keyboards, work stations, posture, etc.) may help to some extent. However, even with the more body-mind-friendly office areas, severe computer strain and related health issues are prevalent. An exercise program, including stretches, is critical for dealing with computer strain. Sitting in front of a computer most of the day (on a mission) can distract us from taking care of ourselves. In some high achiever companies - motivated by lofty goals and intense pressure to produce - stress factors and computer strain often result in a higher percentage of employees with acute or chronic health issues.

An extensive body of research exists that links stress (primary or secondary cause) to almost 80% of diseases and illness. Computer strain encompasses a wide variety of health issues - from stress, carpel tunnel syndrome, nerve and disk damage, serious or chronic neck and shoulder pain/stiffness - to persistent lower back aches, eye strain, headaches, migraines and limited mobility. The computer-dominated workplace fosters a myriad of health concerns. One 30-45 minute session per week of Hand Reflexology (combined with chair massage) can liberate the hands (as described by some clients) -reducing pain and stiffness; improving mobility/dexterity. It can also provide significant stress relief and improve job performance.

Regular Hand Reflexology treatments, by themselves, or used in conjunction with individual wellness plans can help address these health issues; relieve pain and reduce inflammation; restore mobility and improve hand/finger movements; promote energy vitality (including mental alertness). Regular 90 minute table sessions, which include Hand and Foot Reflexology, are greatly enhanced therapeutic experiences. With 25-45 minutes of Reflexology blended with the table massage, the body’s natural healing processes are sparked like a body tune up. Tight muscles/stiffness are loosened. Neural pathways and Meridians are unblocked to allow a more uninterrupted flow of energy (Chi). Ideally, Chi (subtle energies flowing through the Meridians)and the electrical channels (neural pathways)in the nervous system help bring the body, mind and spirit more in balance to a higher vibrational level. Higher vibrations translate into better health and energy vitality.

Clients with broken bones (arm, foot, hand, etc.) or recent surgeries experience severe pain, inflammation and other health issues during the healing process. Hand Reflexology, along with other modalities, can help speed up the recovery process, increase blood flow, reduce swelling and inflammation. If your right foot is broken, working on the right hand in the corresponding or surrounding areas can provide relief and aid the recovery. Like Foot Reflexology, intense focus on the hands can induce a deep state of relaxation. Neurological issues affecting the hands, such as inflammatory conditions and nerve damage can be addressed through regular treatments.

Remember, when a client feels surges or currents racing through the body during a treatment, these gentle sparks are signs of stimulating the neural pathways and Meridians. From a holistic point of view, the body is a dynamic and ever-changing energy system. Harmony and imbalances are manifestations of the human organism (treat the whole person). The hands, much like the feet, are reflections of the body and its imbalances. When an organ, gland or body area is congested, this is a sign of disharmony. For example, an arthritic condition in the fingers (which has settled in for some time) causes serious inflammation/stiffness, poor circulation and hard crystallized deposits in affected areas. A severe case of carpel tunnel syndrome might reveal the forming of sheets, between the elbow and wrist areas, that feel razor thin. Often, it feels like the bone, muscles and support areas are not distinguishable.

When the hands are overused for long periods of time, sometimes soft pockets can be felt around the joints, fingers or wrist. This may indicate the support system surrounding the affected area, including connective tissue, has been compromised or loosened. (Think of a rubber band losing its elasticity.) One way to help relieve headaches and migraines (by treating it yourself) is to apply deep pressure to the web area of the thumb and at/near the tops of each finger. (SEE HAND CHART) Frequent and repetitive treatments are most effective. It can help mental stress/alertness and some lymph drainage.

Regular treatments can spur mental, emotional, physical health and well being within the entire body. Though the feet have been shown to be more effective for body tune ups and dealing with the entire body (larger reflex areas, heightened sensitivity and easier to pinpoint/apply deep pressure techniques), the hands are of paramount importance in the treatment process. Treatments focused solely on the hands can impact the body and its imbalances in ways similar to working the feet.

The most profound impact on the client comes from giving a treatment that combines both the hands and feet. Whether it be for general health maintenance, an integral part of your wellness plan or to address specific health issues - regular Hand Reflexology treatments can help improve your quality of life, sense of well-being and wellness strategies. Reflexology can be used in unison with other alternative health services (chiropractic, naturopathic, acupuncture, etc.); conventional and integrative medicine; and wellness plans.

(Next article will cover, "Reflexology: Where West Meets East". The Endocrine System, Reflex Points & Meridians, Wellness & The Human Organism. It will be published in two parts, the fifth and sixth articles of the series.)

Ken Orr is a local LMT and Reflexologist who has a practice in the Dallas area. He and his wife, Diane, have a massage business, MassagingDallas. Business phone: 972-238-5145.

On the Web: www.MassagingDallas.com Email: MassagingDallas@hotmail.com

The material contained in this article is provided for information and educational purposes. It is not intended as medical advice. Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) do not: (1) diagnose illness, disease, or any other physical/mental disorder; (2) prescribe medical treatment or pharmaceuticals; perform spinal manipulations. LMTs and Massage Therapy are not a substitute for medical examinations or diagnosis. Consult with a physician when you may have a disease, illness or injury. All client information is held in strict confidence