Is there any scientific basis to reflexology? In the 1890’s knighted research scientist, Dr. Henry Head, proved the neurological relationship that exists between the skin and the internal organs. Nobel prize winner, Sir Charles Sherrington proved that the whole nervous system and body adjusts to a stimulus when it is applied to any part of the body. In Germany, Dr. Alfons Cornelius observed pressure to certain spots triggered muscle contractions, changes in blood pressure, variation in warmth and moisture in the body as well as directly affecting the “psychic processes” or mental state of the patient. Currently research studies to further validate reflexology are being conducted in many countries including Switzerland, Denmark, USA and Australia. In Japan and Denmark reflexology has been incorporated into the employee health programs of several large corporations saving each company thousands of dollars annually. The American Academy of Reflexology teamed up with Dr. Terry Oleson and conducted a study on the positive effects Reflexology has on PMS symptoms. This study was published in Obstetric & Gynecology in December 1993. Over 300 Reflexology research studies on over 150 health challenges have been conducted around the world.
