Reflexology
Reflexology is a modern mapped-zone pressure system in which pressure is applied mainly to the feet or hands. Its maps organize the system’s practice; correspondence to distant organs and resulting healing effects are not established biomedical mechanisms.
How it is practiced
A client is commonly clothed, seated, or reclined with the feet or hands exposed. Practice may include systematic thumb- or finger-walking, holds, and whole-map sequences, with pressure adjusted through ongoing feedback.
Reflexology is distinct from ordinary foot massage and from Shiatsu, Thai massage, and acupressure. Maps must not be used to diagnose disease or replace medical evaluation.
- 01Intake and skin review — The practitioner checks comfort, tissue condition, hygiene, and reasons to modify or defer.
- 02Orientation — The feet or hands are positioned and the pressure-map framework is explained without diagnostic claims.
- 03Mapped pressure sequence — Thumb, finger, or holding techniques progress through the selected map with consent.
- 04Feedback and close — Pressure is reassessed and the session ends without interpreting findings as disease.
Pressure
- Very light
- Light
- Light–moderateas recorded
- Moderate
- Moderate–deep
- Deep
MassageData does not measure force, and nothing here is a score.
History and origins
Safety and considerations
This record does not assert a complete technique-specific contraindication list. Defer massage for acute systemic infection or fever, suspected thrombosis, or acute medical emergencies, and seek appropriate clinical assessment.[S124]
Training and professional context
Competent practice requires education in the system’s methods, hygiene, tissue-risk screening, consent, and scope. A reflexology certificate does not confer authority to diagnose or treat distant organs.
Whether this technique is within your scope depends on your profession, training, jurisdiction, and licensing board. Review the rules that apply where you practice.