What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better. The theory is that this eases stress, and that helps your body work better. It's also known as zone therapy. The way reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside is a bit like acupuncture and acupressure. But those therapies use points all over your body, not just on your feet, hands, and ears. And while reflexologists do use their hands, it isn't a form of massage. Like those other therapies, though, reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it's not an alternative to it, and reflexologists don't diagnose or treat illnesses.