2026/06/27
The history and function of Reflexology
The history and application of Reflexology can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, dating back at least 4000 years, as evidence can be seen recorded in pictures and text from that era.
It may be difficult to establish the extent of the understanding that the practitioners had of the functioning of the human body, dating back to this time. But the pictures and text certainly indicate the practice of massage and pressure-based applications, particularly on the feet.
One can assume that these practices formed part of a health care system within the cultures of this time.
In western culture, in the early 20th century, Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an American Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist, introduced "Zone Therapy” into his practice. He divided the human body into ten longitudinal zones, noting that applying pressure to the hands and feet in these zones could relieve pain in corresponding body parts.
Eunice Ingham, a physical therapist who worked with Dr. Fitzgerald's methods, expanded on his concepts, and in1938, published her findings in Stories the Feet Can Tell. Her systematic approach shaped the foundation of modern reflexology.
Today, Reflexology is practiced around the world and the evidence that it works as a preventive and curative health care system is backed by millions of actual personal testimonials.
Practitioners of Reflexology develop an effective technique through their continued practice just as any artisan or skilled practitioner would in their field of expertise.
A good general guideline of how Reflexology works to improve one’s health can be understood by the concept that, by releasing tension from the body, the blood circulation improves and so too, the functioning of the various biological systems.
This improved function then establishes a better homeostasis, which facilitates in a healthier and symptom-free person.
Testimonial
“I honestly wasn't sure what to expect walking in, but Tony completely changed my mind about reflexology. He has this incredible ability to find pressure points on your feet that you never knew existed, and somehow the relief travels through your whole body. The last session I had with him, I had been feeling some form of pain in my stomach area and by the end of the session the pain was gone, I couldn’t believe it. And not only that but I was also feeling more relaxed, I could barely keep my eyes open. It's hard to explain until you experience it.” -Siné
