Reflexology as a Treatment of Hypertension

The pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries is a major determinant for whether a person develops heart disease. When the pressure is abnormally high, the condition is called hypertension or high blood pressure. Hypertension can lead to death, so it is very important that your blood pressure stays below 120/80 mmHg. Some ways to control hypertension include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication.
Another way to treat hypertension is with reflexology, a noninvasive, natural way to normalize blood pressure. Information on the reflexes stimulated and the techniques used in reflexology to treat hypertension are given below. (Please note that if you have hypertension, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor before having reflexology.)

Spine

• The inner sides of the feet are where the spine reflex is found. Thousands of nerves innervate the spine, so by applying thumb pressure to this area of the feet, a state of deep relaxation can be achieved. Using moderate pressure, press and release the thumb along this area to stimulate the spine reflex.

Pituitary

• At the center of the bottom of the toes lies the pituitary reflex. Lightly pressing the thumb into the pituitary reflex and holding the thumb in that position for about 10 seconds will bring the pituitary gland into balance.

Lungs, Thyroid and Heart

• The balls of the feet house the lungs, thyroid helpers and heart reflexes. By stimulating these reflexes with finger pressure and rubbing techniques, oxygen and nutrient rich blood will circulate to the corresponding organs. The thyroid reflex is situated along the bottom of the big toe. Walk the thumb across this area to stimulate this vital gland system.

Solar Plexus and Diaphragm

• At the bottom of the ball of the foot, between the second and third toes, lies the solar plexus reflex. The solar plexus acts as a storage house for stress. Using moderate pressure, press your thumb into this spot on the sole of both feet and hold it there for about 15 seconds to produce a calming effect that will relieve stress, which is a common contributor to hypertension. Using light to moderate pressure, press your thumb along the bottom of the ball of the foot and work your way from one side to the other to stimulate the diaphragm reflex.

Adrenals

• The adrenal reflex is located about one-half inch up from the center of the soles of both feet, between the big toe and the second toe. Lightly press and hold the thumb on the adrenal reflex on both feet for approximately 10 seconds.

Kidneys

• The kidney reflex falls almost at the center of each foot, but more toward its inside edge. Lightly press your thumb into the kidney reflex (it's about the size of a grape), making sure to press and release your thumb until you have covered the entire reflex area on both feet.