Reflexology Benefits for Arthritis Sufferers

Reflexology is an old practice which involves using fingers and thumbs to exert pressure on specific points on the feet. It is said that particular points on the feet correspond to different points on the body. Reflexology practitioners try to relieve pain using these points on the feet. The practice has many benefits including the reduction of stress which cause inflammation, improving blood circulation, balances adrenal glands and releases endorphins which is the body's natural painkiller.

There have not been many detailed studies of the benefits reflexology has for arthritis patients in the US. But China has conducted several studies, albeit on a small scale, that shows how the treatment can relieve arthritis symptoms. The studies prove that reflexology is a great way to relieve pain cause by arthritis; the treatment itself has not been proven to cure arthritis. Arthritis patients can gain maximum benefits by coupling this treatment with other arthritis treatments such as exercise, heat therapy or pain relief medications.

Coping with stress

Reflexology can relax your whole body and give you a sense of calm. Stress is something that everyone has to face but how we manage the stress is what makes all the difference. Stress can lead to a number of health issues, like pain and body ache, if not handled well. Reflexology can help you cope with stress better, a higher level of stress hormones leads to negative reaction in different parts of the body. When the stress is reduced then the pain associated with arthritis can also be relieved.

Better sleep

It is very important to rest and sleep after a tiring day. If you don't get good quality sleep then you will not be able to cope with any kind of pain and you become easily irritable. Reflexology sessions give you a sense of peace and help you sleep much better. You will have a lot of energy after such a sleep and it also promotes regeneration of cells and other healing processes in the body.

Improved circulation

Arthritis patients can benefit greatly with healthy blood circulation in the body. The blood keeps every cell in the body nourished and functioning. The overall health of a person can improve with improved blood circulation. Arthritis results in a lot of strain and stress in the body so if the circulation improves then you can get some relief from arthritis symptoms as well.

Energize and detox

Reflexology is said to open up all the energy pathways in the body making you more energetic and helping you handle pain better. The energy must flow freely through out the body otherwise we feel listless and weak. It is also necessary to detoxify the body and this is done by the lymphatic system. Sedentary lifestyle can make the lymphatic system sluggish and clogged; this in turn causes a number of other health problems and organs handling waste elimination are required to work harder. Reflexology allows the lymph to work more efficiently and to eliminate waste from the body improving the overall health.