Reflexology is based on the belief that there are places on the feet, hands and ears that correspond to parts of the body, e.g. internal organs and joints. Manipulating those parts of the feet, or ears or hands can have direct effects on corresponding parts of the body. Some proponents claim the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses of these organs by appropriate reflexological treatment.
A massage technique performed on the feet, and less commonly on the hands, to correct "imbalances" in the body. Works on the premise that our energy zones correspond to reflex points at the body surface. Reflexology is as old as acupuncture, but was formally introduced in America by Dr. William Fitzgerald in 1913. Further research by Eunice Ingham led to a "map" of the body, identifying the reflex areas of the feet. Considered beneficial for both preventing and treating diseases, it is especially effective for digestive and menstrual problems, fatigue, stress and stress-related disorders and chronic conditions. Zone Therapy, the term used prior to reflexology, is also used to describe a "form" of reflexology.