What Is the Hook Back Technique Used in Reflexology?

The healing art of reflexology involves the application of pressure to the feet and hands using precise thumb, finger and hand movements. Reflexologists assert that there are specific areas of the feet and hands---and to a lesser extent, the ears---that correspond to specific organs, glands and other body parts. The hook and back up movement is one of the basic techniques used in this practice.

Benefits

• Reflexologists say that by applying knowledge of these "zones" with appropriate massage and pressure, targeted areas within the body can be affected beneficially, restoring balance and energy. The hands and feet can be used as a map or mirror to assess and treat various ailments, diseases and emotional disturbances or to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Feet versus Hands

• Historically, the feet are the area most often worked on by reflexology practitioners, largely because of their easy availability to the therapist while the patient relaxes. It is also thought that the feet contain more sensitive reflex points. However, some reflexologists increasingly work on both the feet and hands. Just as with the feet, there are pressure points on the hands that can, among other things, boost blood circulation, stimulate the lymphatic system, and strengthen the digestive and immune systems.

Hook Back Technique

• The hook in and back up technique of reflexology is sometimes compared to a bee inserting its stinger into its prey. Like a bee sting, the technique is not meant to cover large areas, but is used to accurately pinpoint small, deep reflex points. The technique is performed by placing the outer edge of the flexed thumb on the reflex point, pushing it in, and pulling it back, across the point. The technique can also be performed using two hands.

Two Hands Technique

• To use the two hands hook and back up technique, the practitioner places the palms of both relaxed hands on either side of the foot, with fingers touching the top of the foot. She then pushes the foot gently forward with her left hand, and pulls it back with her right hand. With relaxed, but firm, hands, the practitioner alternates between pushing the foot forward, and pulling it back about five times, or until the foot appears to be relaxed. The two-handed movement is then repeated on the other foot.

Using the Reflexology on the Hands

• Sometimes it is not advisable to perform reflexology on the feet due to fungus, open cuts or other health issues. When this is the case, the hook in and back up technique can instead be used on the hands. The practitioner places his thumb on the palm of the hand, with his fingers resting gently on the back side of the hand, not gripping it. He then bends the first joint of his thumb, and presses it into the hand firmly. This is the hook in. To back up, he pulls the hand back across the point of the original manipulation.