Let's have a good look at feet anatomy and the physiology of what we are doing!

It is a documented fact that Reflexology is being integrated into our current western medical system by gaining the acceptance of a respectable percentage of Physicians. Contrary to our beliefs as Reflexologists and CAM therapists, having to do with Reflexology chart's, the presence of zones and meridians, these same Physicians attribute the positive influence of Reflexology to a minimum number of physiological mechanisms thus justifying their decision to utilize it and finally integrate Reflexology.

Initially I will address the challenges we are faced with relating to our non evidenced based medical theory, for example the inconsistencies of Reflexology charts.

I will then present additions to this minimum listing of physiological mechanisms with the purpose of supporting these existing Physicians' correct decision, but also to gain the well deserved appreciation of the Physicians who are not yet convinced.

This existing knowledge has served me well every time I have taken initiatives to integrate Reflexology into medical environments. This information cannot be copyrighted by anyone as it has to do with human anatomy and physiology and thus will belong to all Reflexologists to utilize when approaching the scientific community and/or others.

Some of the anatomical/physiological features that provide a fundamental basis for the benefits of Reflexology and will be presented in referenced detail are:

Nervous system
Circulatory/Lymph system
Gate control theory
Cross reflexes/Referral areas
Patient in the driver's seat
Desensitizing the CNS
Hormonal system
Re-shaping the homunculus in chronic pain (distorted body image)
Placebo
Fascia - Meridians
Foot mechanics

The Reflexology charts were always presented last at these meetings, with good reason, and I will elaborate on this as well.