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Non Drug Pain Management Ideas: Reflexology

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is defined by Wikipedia as "an alternative medicine involving the physical act of applying pressure to the feet, hands, or ears with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on what reflexologists claim to be a system of zones and reflex areas that they say reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.

It is questionable whether or not this specialized form of massage us the be all and the end all in the world of pain management.  But that does not mean it is useless either.  An April 2013 report in Medical News Today cites a small study that demonstrates increased pain threshold and tolerance when reflexology was used.  Additionally, Everyday Health  reports that, if nothing else, reflexology can help with the anxiety associated witch chronic pain.

Sources:  Wikipedia, Medical News Today,Everyday Health



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