Hawaiian Experience Spa

Foot massages feel great put don't cure diseases

Reflexology is the practice of massaging or applying pressure to parts of the body (usually the feet and sometimes the hands and ears) in the belief that specific areas on the feet or hands correspond with other body parts, particularly internal organs.  Reflexologists believe that by treating the feet and hands, they can affect changes in the corresponding organ.  There is no consensus among reflexologists as to how this works.  Some believe that reflexology affects the body’s “energy field” while others say that nerves from the internal organs actually end in the hands and feet.  Neither of these beliefs is based on modern science.

Reflexology can be practiced by a “reflexologist” or a massage therapist.  In the State of Arizona there is no licensing for reflexologists therefore anyone is legally allowed to perform reflexology, regardless of their training.  Some massage therapists also incorporate reflexology into their practice, and include reflexology treatments as part of a full body massage.  There are major differences between seeing a reflexologist and a massage therapist in the State of Arizona;

Reflexologist

• Unlicensed – Anyone can claim to be a reflexologist. No license is required.
• Training – Because there is no licensing your reflexologist can have little or no training and still legally operate.
• Body areas – It is illegal for a reflexologist to work on any area other than the hands, feet, and head.  If you go to a reflexologist and he works on any other area of your body he is committing a Class I misdemeanor.

Massage Therapist

• Licensed – Massage therapists are licensed by the State of Arizona.  Prior to receiving a license, massage therapists must submit records from an accredited massage school and submit to a background check.
• Training – Massage therapists must have 700 hours training in anatomy, physiology, and related subjects.  Students normally complete 100 or more massages on the public under the supervision of an instructor before graduating.
• Body Areas – Your massage therapist can work on any appropriate area of your body to treat your condition.

Warnings

• While a foot massage may feel great, do not go to a reflexologist to treat any medical condition. It is illegal and dangerous for reflexologists to claim that they can treat diagnosed disorders in your kidneys, liver, lungs, etc.  All they can do is give you a nice foot, hand, or head massage.
• Inquire as to the training of the reflexologist.  If you visit a reflexologist be sure to go to one that has formal training.  200 hours of training is desirable.
• If your reflexologist works on any area besides your hands, feet, and head they have violated A.R.S. 42 and have endangered you.  Massage therapy has many contraindications and the Arizona massage therapy laws were created to protect you from injury by unlicensed “therapists”. Violations should be reported to the local police.

More Information: Therapeutic Massage Therapy

IMPORTANT  – All articles on our blog are general in nature only. You should always consult with a doctor for any specific medical advice.