Can Reflexology Help With Muscular Dystrophy?

Reflexology and MD

Reflexology is believed to reduce pain. For muscular dystrophy patients, it can give a sense of well-being by building a connection between the person applying reflexology and the MD patient. Reflexology is an ancient practice that’s been passed down for thousands of years. The Incas and Native Americans may have introduced reflexology to South and North America, but proof of the practice dates back to 3000 BC in pre-dynastic China.

What is reflexology?
It is a homeopathic massage technique designed to relieve pain. Target zones are located in the feet, hands, teeth, ears, and tongue. Following this reflexology treatment can be relaxing and may even offer additional health benefits. Check out the reflexology points in the hands below.

Encyclopedia.com defines reflexology as “a therapeutic method of relieving pain by stimulating predefined pressure points on the feet and hands. This controlled pressure alleviates the source of the discomfort. In the absence of any particular malady or abnormality, reflexology may be as effective for promoting good health and for preventing illness as it may be for relieving symptoms of stress, injury, and illness.”

So how can this help with MD? Based on pressure points in the hands and feet (that are said to connect to the nervous system), reflexologists pinpoint specific glands and organs to treat with massage techniques. Whether it actually connects to these other parts of the body is somewhat controversial. However, the simple idea of touch therapy may play the most important role: when we feel connected to others, we gain a stronger sense of overall well-being.

These five basic foot reflexology techniques, from howcast.com will help you get started. Reflexology is so easy to learn that it’s certainly worth a try. Leave a comment and let us know if it works for you.