Its roots date back to ancient times, and it still evokes strong emotions today, from uncritical enthusiasm
to complete scepticism. One of the greatest challenges in how this field is perceived is the lack of a clear boundary between its genuine therapeutic effects and the growing number of theories surrounding it that promise the impossible.
Understanding what reflexology is helps avoid disappointment and allows people to make informed use of its potential. It is not a method that replaces conventional medicine, but rather a tool that supports body’s self-regulation processes and stress reduction. However, in order to benefit from it, it is essential to separate facts from widely repeated myths that often distort the true nature of this practice.
Myth 1: Reflexologist can cake a medical diagnosis
One of the most common and potentially harmful misconceptions is that a reflexologist can replace a doctor and make a specific diagnosis based on tenderness of a particular point on the foot. In reality, sensitivity or discomfort in a specific zone merely indicates tension or imbalance in the corresponding area of the body, not the presence of a specific disease. Reflexology is based on the concept of homeostasis (body’s drive toward balance) rather than clinical diagnostics based on laboratory tests and imaging.
A therapist does not have the competence to determine the presence of specific conditions, such as kidney stones or pathological organ changes, solely through pressure techniques. Tender reflex points may result from temporary stress, fatigue, or functional blockages that are not equivalent to disease. Treating reflexology as a substitute for laboratory or imaging tests is a mistake that may lead to ignoring genuine health problems.
Role of the treatment is to support body’s natural repair processes, and any recurring tenderness in foot reflex points should be a signal to undergo standard medical examinations with a qualified physician.
Myth 2: Reflexology can cure cancer and chronic diseases
Many dangerous theories have grown around reflexology, suggesting that stimulating specific points can cure cancer, diabetes, or genetic disorders. It must be clearly stated that reflexology is not a curative method in the clinical medical sense and does not have the ability to eliminate underlying causes of serious organ pathologies. Promoting it as an alternative to oncology or pharmacological treatment is irresponsible and poses a risk to patients’ health.
In reality, the role of reflexology in chronic diseases is limited to supportive care. It may be used to improve patient’s quality of life by reducing muscle tension, alleviating certain side effects of strong medications (such as nausea), and improving sleep quality. Reflexology primarily influences the nervous system, helping with getting into deep relaxation, which supports overall regeneration. However, it never replaces a treatment provided by medical specialists.
Myth 3: Effective session must be painful
Belief that the intensity of pain during a session determines its effectiveness stems from a misunderstanding of how reflexology works. Although tenderness in reflex points may signal energetic blockages or tension in a given area, the goal of treatment is not to induce suffering. Excessively strong pressure that forces a patient to hold their breath or tense their muscles is actually counterproductive – it causes stress and triggers cortisol release, which blocks self-regulation processes.
A professional session should balance on the edge of “comfortable discomfort”, a sensation that brings relief rather than tissue damage. The effectiveness of reflexology is based on precision of pressure and nervous system stimulation, not on physical force. The best therapeutic results are achieved when the patient is relaxed, as only in a state of ease can the nervous system respond properly to stimuli.
Myth 4: Results are immediate after the first session
Expecting a single treatment to permanently eliminate chronic ailments is unrealistic. Although patients often experience deep relaxation and improved well-being immediately after a session, body’s self-regulation processes require time. Reflexology works cumulatively. Each subsequent stimulation of reflex points strengthens the nervous system’s response and helps consolidate positive functional changes in the organs.
With the problems that have developed over years, such as sleep disturbances or chronic tension, a series of treatments performed at regular intervals is necessary. Typically, the first lasting therapeutic effects appear after approximately 4–6 sessions. It is also important to be aware of the “healing reaction” – in some patients, the initial treatments may temporarily cause mood fluctuations or fatigue, which is considered a natural sign of the body’s detoxification processes.
Contraindications to reflexology treatments
Although reflexology is a safe and non-invasive method, there are specific physiological conditions and medical diagnoses that are absolute contraindications. Skipping a proper pre-treatment consultation may lead to complications.
Cardiovascular diseases
Deep vein thrombosis and recent heart attacks are major contraindications. Intensive stimulation of circulation could potentially lead to the release of a blood clot.
Acute conditions and infections
High fever, severe bacterial or viral infections require rest rather than additional stimulation of the immune system.
Foot conditions
Fungal infections, open wounds, ulcers, recent fractures, or severe sprains exclude treatment on the affected foot until the tissues have healed.
High-risk pregnancy
In cases of high-risk pregnancy or during the first trimester, special caution is required, and treatment should be consulted with the doctor.
Conditions requiring surgery
Acute appendicitis or other conditions requiring immediate surgical intervention are strict contraindications.
The most common myths about reflexology – summary
Reflexology is a reliable method of working with the body which, when stripped of any “magical” aura, can serve as an effective tool for health prevention and stress reduction. Its foundation is not the treatment of specific diseases, but the stimulation of the body to return to its natural balance. The key to safety and effectiveness lies in seeking qualified therapists who can distinguish between normal physiological reactions and symptoms that require medical consultation.
If you are looking for a treatment to calm your body and reduce tension resulting from everyday stress, contact our practice. Our specialists will conduct a thorough consultation and tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs, ensuring full professionalism and safety throughout the therapy process.
