Hand reflexology is a massage therapy founded on the belief that the entire body is connected through nerves and pressure points in the hands, in conjunction with the feet and ears

The manipulation of nerves and pressure points in the hands has been practiced in various forms for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians

Hand reflexology, the less popular sister therapy of foot reflexology, consists of applying pressure to certain nerve junctures and pressure points on the hands that are believed to be linked to other parts of the body. Within this belief, applying pressure and stimulating blood flow to those areas can affect change in other areas and organs of the body

Closely linked to the theories of acupuncture, a Chinese traditional medicine, hand reflexology relies on the same acupressure points in the hands. These points may include:

The lung meridian – a line of points running from the thumb to the wrist

The inner and outer gate points – located on the wrist

The four seams – points on the top knuckles of each finger

The ten dispersions – the tip of each finger

The Heart 7 – point on the wrist opposite the thumb

As well as various others

According to hand reflexology practitioners, each of these points is linked to other areas of the body, and pressure applied on these points will affect various health conditions

Whilst many of the potential health claims linked to hand reflexology are difficult to verify, there are some more general benefits of this therapy that are better supported

These include the following:

• Reducing anxiety levels
• Improving circulation
• Improving ability to relax
• Reduce inflammation or swelling
• PMS symptoms
• Hand and wrist pain

Safety

One of the best things about hand reflexology is that there is little to no evidence of any harmful side effects. This is a non-invasive therapeutic procedure that can be applied for a huge range of problems as complementary or secondary medicine. The efficiency of the treatment will certainly depend on the practitioner, and there is a chance of discomfort or pain if the reflexologist is inexperienced, but as a whole, this therapy is harmless

However there are some situations where hand reflexology should be avoided:

• Recently undergone hand or wrist surgery
• Suffer from gout
• People who suffer from diabetes, arthritis, circulatory issues, or ongoing infections – intense pressure and an increase in blood flow have the ability to aggravate these conditions
• Before undergoing a reflexology treatment, be sure to explain your complete medical history to the practitioner to ensure that you are a good candidate

Always consult with your general practitioner prior to any alternative therapy treatments