Reflexology
The word reflexology comes from the German word reflexologie, It was coined in 1927 and is a combination of reflex (involuntary nerve stimulation) + ology (branch of knowledge), which means a combination of psychological theory and foot massaging techniques for releasing nervous tension. Reflexology is the study of how one part of the human body relates to another part. In fact, a reflexology practitioner maps the feet, hands or face with reference points to other parts of the human body.
The practice has been around for millennia. It was an ancient therapy that was used by the early Chinese, Egyptian and North American Indigenous peoples. There have also been references to reflexology in the Egyptian civilization as found in Egyptian tomb drawings. This is not surprising seeing that we use our feet so much. In fact, the average pair of feet will walk about 64,373 kilometres in a life time.
Reflexology is based on the theory of “nerve impulse theory”, which infers that the benefit of reflexology is gained by accessing the body’s organs and systems safely via nerve points on the feet, hands and face. Reflexology has now become a part of integrative medicine. It can manage a wide range of symptoms caused by chemotherapies such as peripheral neuropathy and restless leg syndrome. Many clients have reported relief from chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy as well as restless legs through reflexology, which also helps to increase circulation to the feet. There are many more benefits of reflexology including:
• Rehabilitation
• Pain reduction
• Maintenance of dexterity and mobility
• Promotion of general sense of relaxation
• Supportive approach for anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances
• Reduction of fatigue, stress, for those standing for long periods
Apart from these benefits, there is also the benefit of being able to take a break from the anxieties and stresses of life and be pampered, a sense of normalcy restored. Allow Bloomhill’s very experienced Reflexologist, Audrey, take you to a deeply relaxing and reviving state of relaxation.
What a treat! Interested? Please contact Bloomhill Cancer Care reception and book an appointment today.
References
Cai, D-C., Chen, C-Y., & Lo, T-Y. (2022). Foot reflexology: Recent research trends and prospects. Healthcare Basel, 11 (1), 1—18. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9819031/
Contemporary Reflexology College. (2025). About reflexology. Accessed June 12, 2025, from https://www.contemporaryreflexologycollege.com/about/about-reflexology
Embong, H. H., Soh, Y. C., Ming, L. C., & Wong, T. W. (2015). Revisiting reflexology: Concept, evidence, and practitioner training. Journal of Traditional Complementary Medicine, 5(4), 197—206. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4624523/
Etymoline. (2025). Origin and history of reflexology. Accessed June 12, 2025, from https://www.etymonline.com/word/reflexology
Kavanagh, K., & Shanock, L. R. (2021). How long can they stand it? Examining the effectiveness of reflexology and a passive relaxation intervention in improving health outcomes in workers who stand. Occupational Health Science, 5, 95—127. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41542-021-00082-9
McCullough, J. E. M., Liddle, S. D., Sinclair, M., Close, C., & Hughes, C.M. (2014). The Physiological and biochemical outcomes associated with a reflexology treatment: A systematic review. Evidence Based Complement Alternative Medicine, 5, 1—16. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4026838/
Wang, WL., Hung, H-Y., Chen, Y-R., Chen, K-H., Yang, S-N., Chu, C-M., & Chan, Y-Y. (2020). Effect of foot reflexology intervention on depression, anxiety, and sleep quality in adults: A meta-analysis and metaregression of randomized controlled trials. Evidence Based Complement Alternative Medicine, 15, 1—21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7512096/pdf/ECAM2020-2654353.pdf
Please contact our Nurses on 07 5445 5794 or [email protected] if you have any questions.
All information provided by Bloomhill is mainly based on research from the Qld Cancer Council and best practice guidelines. Our model of care utilizes the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) domains of wellness along with available clinical evidence. Always consult your care team regarding matters that affect your health. This is a guide intended for information only.
