What is the difference between reflexology and acupressure

The brain does this in response to the sensory experience of pain, but it can also work independently of sensory input and create pain in response to emotional or cognitive factors. Thus things that influence the brain, such as your mood or external factors like stress can also affect your experience of pain. According to this theory, reflexology may reduce pain by reducing stress and improving mood. Learn about qi and other concepts Another theory that may also explain how reflexology can produce pain relief is the gate control theory, or, more recently, the neuromatrix theory of pain.

Yet another theory holds that there is a "vital energy" in the human body. If stress is not addressed, it leads to congestion of energy, which in turn causes bodily inefficiencies, which can lead to illness. According to this theory, reflexology helps keep the energy flowing. The recognition of reflexology as a specific type of treatment began with Zone Theory, in which the body is divided into 10 vertical zones. Each zone corresponds to fingers and toes all the way up to the top of the head.

For example, if you are standing up with your hands on your thighs palms facing down the thumbs and great toe would be zone 1. On either side of the body, the index finger and second toe would be zone 2, etc. In reflexology theory, every organ, valve, muscle, etc. For example, working between toes 2 and 3, or fingers 2 and 3, the eye point is found.

These pathways between pressure points and other parts of the body are thought to be connected via the nervous system, as described above.

The zones are similar to, but not the same as meridians found in Chinese medicine. However, there are some correlations between meridians and location of organs on the feet and ankles. The reflexologist acknowledges that he or she is a participant in the session, rather than "the healer. The reflexologist takes into account all aspects of the client's being: body, emotion, mind, and spirit. A relaxed body can induce calm emotions, a serene mind, and an integrated spirit. The reason why is because there are reflexology points on the feet that are close to acupuncture points that are used to induce pregnancy.

In addition, because Chinese Reflexology helps get your overall qi flowing, this helps improve blood circulation.

However, the Chinese Medicine perspective is that too much circulation of qi and blood during pregnancy can disturb the fetus. When you see a licensed acupuncturist, the practitioner can select points for their specific benefits and avoid others that are contraindicated during pregnancy. While needles are generally inserted into acupuncture points, they can also be placed in sore muscles to stimulate the flow of qi and blood and this assists with healing.

Conditions such as a sore back, sprained shoulder, headache, and tendonitis in the wrist would benefit from the insertion of needles because of the increased circulation which supports healing. The effect is often rather quick and gives patient immediate relief. This technique is particularly effective for conditions caused by a physical injury, overuse or strain. Acupuncture needles help move the qi, which helps to clear the pain. For localized soft tissue injuries, acupuncture is vastly superior to Chinese Reflexology because the practitioner can insert multiple needles into the injured tissue and surrounding area.

This includes the wrist, arms, legs, ankles, and ironically, the feet. Chinese Reflexology gives you a simple and powerful way to identify where qi is out of balance in your body. One of the most powerful testimonials I received about the benefit of Chinese Reflexology as compared to acupuncture was from my acupuncture professor, Dr.

Fu to review the manuscript to confirm that my simplified descriptions of Chinese Medicine theory kept the true essence of the theory. While she was reading the book, Dr.

Fu tried some of the techniques on herself and saw a measurable improvement in her allergies based on laboratory tests. When I met with Dr. If you cooperate with acupuncture and medicinal therapy on the feet, Going out, a big illness gets better soon "is very beneficial to ensuring the public's health.

It is especially suitable for promotion in the vast areas where there is a shortage of medicine and medicine. How can we help? What is the Difference Between Reflexology and Acupressure?

Just one more thing to note, reflexology is safe throughout pregnancy as long as you are attending sessions at a clinic with a trained pregnancy reflexologist as we are at Essential Feeling. Or you can book online now. Many people have heard of acupuncture. Acupuncture uses needles. Search for:.