Reflexology

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An example of a reflexology chart, demonstrating the areas of the feet that practitioners believe correspond with organs in the "zones" of the body.

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medical practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, ears, and hands. This is done using thumb, finger, and hand massage techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a pseudoscientific[1] system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work on the feet and hands causes a physical change to the supposedly related areas of the body.[2]

There is no convincing scientific evidence that reflexology is effective for any medical condition.[3]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference QuackWatch was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Kunz, Kevin; Kunz, Barbara (1993). The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology. Reflexology Research Project. ISBN 9780960607013.
  3. ^ Ernst E (2009). "Is reflexology an effective intervention? A systematic review of randomised controlled trials". Med J Aust. 191 (5): 263–266. doi:10.5694/j.1326-5377.2009.tb02780.x. PMID 19740047. S2CID 17307793.