Foot Massage vs. Reflexology

Foot massage and reflexology are specialized therapies applied to the feet that originates in traditional Chinese medicine

 

Foot Massage vs. Reflexology:
what's the difference? 

"Foot massage" is best seen as a more general term that can describe many manual techniques applied to the feet, whereas "reflexology" is a specific practice with a distinct history, theory, and method of application

 

In foot reflexology, different parts of the foot (called reflex zones or pressure points) are believed to correspond to various systems throughout the body. 

 

The reflexologist applies pressure to various reflex zones of the foot in order to stimulate the central nervous system and affect energy pathways, thereby promoting healing and relaxation throughout the body. 

 

While foot reflexology may be the most popular, there are other forms that use elements of Swedish massage, Shiatsu, Thai massage, and other traditions. 

 

Health benefits

 

A foot massage involves applying various massage techniques to the feet with the same goals as massage when practiced anywhere on the body: improved circulation, release of muscle tension, relaxation, stress relief, and pain relief. 

 

Foot massages can help relieve pain and tension in other parts of the body, since releasing trigger points and tension in one location often has a cascading effect including relief of headaches and back pain, reduced swelling of feet and ankles during pregnancy (edema), promotion of mental health, sleep, and provide an overall sense of calm and well-being. 

 

Reflexology can have many of the same benefits, and also provides more targeted healing of different body systems through restored energy flows. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and alleviating both psychological and physical pain associated with health conditions like cancer treatment, type 2 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.