Reflexology for Hypertension

Whilst reflexology does not claim to diagnose, treat or cure a disorder, it is thought that some disorders, such as these, have been shown (through mainly anecdotal evidence due to limited investment in scientific research) to respond well to reflexology.

 

Cardiovascular disease is the biggest single cause of death in the UK, respiratory disease being second and cancer third. Hypertension is the medical name for High Blood Pressure. It is not a 'disease' in itself but it is a significant risk factor in other diseases including heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. It is a main circulatory / cardiovascular system disorder.

 

Circulatory / Cardiovascular System

The circulatory system provides a continuous supply of nutrients and oxygen into every cell of the body. Simultaneously it picks up carbon dioxide and other waste material produced by the cells and carries them away for removal from the body. The health and movement of our blood, is a major factor in determining our general health and well-being. The cardiovascular system follows a rhythmical pattern and is closely associated with our emotions.

Therapeutic effects of reflexology on the circulatory / cardiovascular system

• Direct stimulation of blood and capillaries in the feet promotes better circulation of blood there with a knock-on effect in the rest of the body.
• Releases muscular tension: directly affects blood vessel walls.
• Releases emotional tension: directly benefits the circulatory / cardiovascular system.
• Stimulating the action of the muscles will assist the skeletal muscle pump and so benefit the circulatory system.
• Relaxation induced by reflexology helps balance the ANS, restoring harmony to its sympathetic and parasympathetic branches.
• Break down of deposits in the feet and the stimulation of reflexology decongests energy pathways allowing the circulatory / cardiovascular System to work optimally (as it does for all systems).

 

What is Hypertension?

 

Hypertension is the medical name for High Blood Pressure. It is not a 'disease' in itself but it is a significant risk factor in other diseases including heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. When people suffer high blood pressure, it is not uncommon for them to experience giddiness, noises in the ear, headaches, digestive upsets, and lethargy.

 

There are many factors which can contribute to high blood pressure including stress, diet and lifestyle as well as kidney complaints, hormonal disturbances and circulatory disorders. However, most cases of hypertension are called 'essential' meaning caused through diet and lifestyle and unrelated to a disease with another part of your body.