subject: Chiropractor in Naperville IL | Headache Relief: Reflexology Offers a Natural, Drug-Free Solution [print this page] Author: Mike McCoy Author: Mike McCoy
The stress and pressure of the demands of daily life can give anyone a headache. Maybe that's why headaches are one of the most common ailments. Whether you suffer from the common tension headache, or the more brain-splitting migraine headaches, there is a natural alternative to the side-effects that often accompany over-the-counter pain medications. And let's be honest, a headache is not an aspirin deficiency. If you find that you are popping pain meds like candy and your stomach is not happy about it, maybe its time to try a more natural alternative. A headache is a signal from your body that something is not right, so why not try something that is free, has no negative side effects and it could even prevent future headaches? What is Reflexology? - Reflexology is an ancient healing art that has charted the pressure points on the feet and hands and their relationship to specific organs in the body. For instance, the corresponding points for the head, brain and sinuses are located at the tips of all ten fingers and toes. Reflexology is an all natural treatment that is used to relieve pain and encourage the body to relax. A reflexologist is not a doctor and they are unable to diagnose or treat any illnesses, or prescribe any cures. Their role is to help restore the body's natural balance, improve circulation, and decrease pain. How does Reflexology Relieve Headache Pain? - In the case of tension headaches, which often actually originate in the cervical spine (the seven vertebrae of the neck), reflexology can relieve the tension and stress by releasing the tightness in the cervical spine. Reflexology can also be used to relieve cluster, sinus and migraine headaches. If a person who routinely suffers from migraines begins to feel one coming on, they can learn to use reflexology techniques to prevent the onset of the headache before it strikes. Hand Reflexology Points for Relief from Headaches - For pain relief you can give yourself reflexology treatments once or twice each day as needed. For a tension headache, the pressure point is located in the fleshy spot on the hand between the thumb and forefinger. Rub the tender spot in this location with the other thumb to relieve the pain. To work the cervical spine, use your thumb to work along the outer edge of the right hand from the thumb all the way down to the bottom of the hand. Foot Reflexology Points for Relieving Headache Pain - On the foot, the interior edge of the foot from the arch up to the base of the big toe corresponds with the spine, and the top of the foot at the base of the toes corresponds with the brain/neck area. The upper portion of the bottom side of the big toe mirrors the head and brain as well. Applying pressure to the tender spots in those areas will relieve the neck tension that might be where the pain is coming from. You can see a free, fully illustrated and interactive reflexology map at:
