ev therapies logo
Edit Template
Edit Template

Reflexology Benefits: Pain Relief, Better Sleep & Stress Reduction

Reflexology is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries in cultures around the world. Unlike a traditional massage that works on muscles, reflexology applies pressure to specific points on the feet, hands and ears, known as reflex zones, which are believed to correspond to organs and systems in the body.

This simple yet powerful technique is now recognized as a complementary therapy for stress, pain, sleep disturbances and more.

How Reflexology Works

According to reflexology theory, pressure on reflex zones sends signals through the nervous system to the related organ or body part. This can promote relaxation, improve circulation and trigger natural healing responses.

  • Feet → correspond to most major organs and systems.

  • Hands & Ears → can also be used for therapeutic pressure points.

This idea has parallels with other healing systems, such as acupressure in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which also maps specific points to overall wellbeing.

Key Health Benefits of Reflexology

 Pain Relief

  • Reflexology may help with chronic pain, post-surgical pain, migraines and PMS.

  • Study Reference: 2018 (Journal of Special Operations Medicine) – 94% of participants with chronic pain reported improvement after reflexology.

  • Another study in Israel showed one 20-minute reflexology session reduced post-operative pain.


 Mental Health & Stress

  • Reflexology often induces deep relaxation, which may reduce anxiety and depression.

  • Study Reference: 2020 meta-analysis of 26 trials – significant improvements in anxiety, depression and sleep quality.

  • Other studies: heart surgery patients and people with multiple sclerosis reported less stress and better mood.


 Better Sleep

  • Review: 2021 (Journal of Advanced Nursing) – 42 studies, nearly 4,000 patients → confirmed reflexology significantly improved sleep quality.

  • Menopausal women: 15 minutes of daily reflexology for 3 weeks improved sleep quality.


 Support During Cancer Treatment

  • Reflexology may ease fatigue and cancer-related pain as a complementary therapy.

  • Study Reference: 2019 (Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention) – breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy reported less fatigue.

  • Review: 2020 (International Journal of Cancer Management) – overall positive effects for cancer pain.


 Digestive Health

  • Evidence is limited, but reflexology shows potential for constipation and IBS-related symptoms.

  • Study Reference: Small study → 94% of chronic constipation patients improved after 6 weeks of reflexology.

  • Meta-analysis: 2020 – foot reflexology may help treat constipation as complementary therapy.

Conclusion

Reflexology has been practiced for thousands of years and continues to grow in popularity worldwide.

It is safe, non-invasive and generally low risk.
Research shows it can support:

  • ✅ Pain relief

  • ✅ Better sleep

  • ✅ Stress reduction

  • ✅ Mental health

  • ✅ Digestive balance

While not a substitute for medical treatment, reflexology is a valuable complementary therapy that enhances overall wellbeing.

Book Your Reflexology Session in London

Ready to experience deep relaxation and better sleep? Discover the benefits of Reflexology – book your session with EV Therapies in London today.

Schedule Your SessionLearn More About Reflexology

Personalized holistic treatments in London by certified reflexologist & Reiki practitioner Effie Venizelou

 

Edit Template