Zone
Theory and Meridian Theory
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 There are two main schools of thought in reflexology. The first is called the Zone Theory and was discovered by Dr. William Fitzgerald. The Zone Theory states that the foot is linked to the body with nerve endings and that those nerve endings correspond to zones on the body. There are ten vertical zones that correspond to the fingers and toes. In the Zone Theory applying pressure to a certain finger or toe yields an effect on a body part within that zone. Also in the Zone Theory it is believed the soles of feet show a map of the human anatomy (when placed side by side). This theory seems to work in case studies but there is no definite evidence supporting it (the Zone Theory). This could be because “the number and complexity of nerve endings in the feet make it almost impossible to clearly identify which areas of the feet affect which parts of the body.” (Vennells 6). So, in a case study the patient could have improvement in a part of their body after reflexology but a reflexologist probably wouldn't be able to target an area of the body using this theory. The second theory comes from Chinese medicine and relies on the belief that there are a number of invisible energy pathways, or meridians, that carry life force or energy. When these pathways are blocked illness results. Reflexology is used to release blockage and allow a clear flow of energy throughout the body. This theory is based on the idea that most of the major energy pathways begin or end in the feet (Vennells 4). |
| What is Reflexology? |
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| How a patients attitude affects treatment |
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| Zone Theory and Meridian Theory |
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| Validity of Reflexology |
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| Opposition |
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| Reflexology in History |
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| Essential Questions and Hypotheses |
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| Exhibition Fair |
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| Power Point |
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| Reflections |
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| Bibliography |
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| Suggested
Readings and Resources |
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