Reflexology

Why Reflexology Deserves a Place in Integrative Healing

In our fast-paced world, stress, chronic pain, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances are all too common—and often under-addressed by conventional medicine. At Patients Medical in New York City, we turn to evidence-informed therapies like Reflexology to rebalance the body naturally.

Reflexology is more than just a foot massage—it’s an ancient technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that stimulates pressure points on the feet, hands, and ears to influence corresponding organs and systems in the body.

By incorporating reflexology into a broader functional medicine plan, we help patients address the root causes of stress-related illness, hormonal imbalance, migraines, digestive disorders, and more—without drugs or surgery.

What Is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a form of therapeutic bodywork based on the theory that specific points in the feet, hands, and ears correspond to organs and systems throughout the body.

By applying strategic pressure to these points, we stimulate the nervous system, promote circulation, and encourage the body’s innate healing abilities.

Conditions Commonly Treated with Reflexology:

Root Causes Addressed by Reflexology

At Patients Medical, we don’t just mask symptoms—we identify what’s causing imbalance. Reflexology can help address root causes such as:

Reflexology stimulates reflex points connected to these systems, sending healing signals throughout the body and prompting improved organ function and homeostasis.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

Before integrating reflexology into your care plan, our team conducts thorough evaluations to identify the systemic imbalances at play:

Hormone panels (cortisol, thyroid, estrogen, progesterone)

Inflammation markers (CRP, homocysteine)

Gut health tests (microbiome, leaky gut markers)

Heavy metal and toxin load assessment

Autonomic nervous system assessment

Food sensitivity and allergy testing

Sleep and adrenal function testing

Integrative Reflexology at Patients Medical

Targeted Foot Reflexology

We stimulate precise reflex points to address organ systems—such as the adrenals, liver, thyroid, pancreas, and digestive tract—offering relief from pain, fatigue, and dysfunction.

Hormonal Balance Reflex Therapy

Using specific foot and hand reflex points, we support menstrual cycle regulation, perimenopausal symptoms, and adrenal fatigue. Often paired with adaptogenic herbs and bioidentical hormone therapies.

Pain and Inflammation Relief

For patients with fibromyalgia, migraines, or chronic joint pain, reflexology reduces tension, boosts circulation, and supports natural anti-inflammatory processes.

Digestive Reset

By targeting reflex points connected to the stomach, intestines, and liver, we support better nutrient absorption, smoother digestion, and detoxification.

Nervous System Support

Reflexology calms the sympathetic nervous system and activates the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) mode, making it ideal for stress, anxiety, insomnia, and burnout.

Real Case Study: Reflexology Helped Lisa Regain Her Energy

Lisa, a 42-year-old teacher, came to us with chronic fatigue, PMS, and irritable bowel symptoms. Standard labs showed only mild thyroid imbalance, but deeper hormone testing revealed high cortisol and estrogen dominance.

We implemented a care plan that included:

  • Weekly reflexology focused on endocrine and digestive reflex points
  • Herbal adrenal support and magnesium supplementation
  • Hormone-balancing nutritional plan
  • Guided breathwork and sleep optimization

Within 6 weeks, Lisa reported better sleep, fewer PMS symptoms, and more consistent energy. Her digestion and mood also dramatically improved.

Anonymized Testimonials

Meet Our Doctors

Rashmi Gulati, MD

Medical Director of Patients Medical

Stuart Weg, MD

A holistic pain management physician

Dr. Emine Cosar, MD

Consult Dr. Emine Cosar, MD. For Gynecology

Related Blog Posts (Cluster Content)

  • The Science Behind Reflexology and Nervous System Balance
  • Top Reflex Points to Relieve PMS and Menstrual Cramps
  • How Reflexology Supports Gut Health Naturally
  • Reflexology vs. Acupuncture – What’s the Difference?
  • Stress Hormones and the Power of the Feet
  • Natural Ways to Manage Fibromyalgia Symptoms
  • The Link Between Reflexology and Improved Sleep
  • Reflexology for Hormone Health in Women Over 40
  • Best Self-Care Techniques Between Reflexology Sessions
  • Can Reflexology Help with Anxiety? Here’s What the Research Says

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Reflexology involves firm but gentle pressure. Some tender spots may indicate areas needing attention, but most patients find it relaxing and therapeutic.

 Most sessions last 45–60 minutes. Some programs recommend weekly treatments for 4–8 weeks.

 No. While it’s focused on the feet, reflexology follows a mapped-out system of pressure points that influence organs and systems, offering therapeutic results.

 Yes. We target endocrine reflex points to support adrenal, thyroid, and reproductive hormone balance.

 Some patients feel immediate relaxation or pain relief; others notice changes over 2–4 sessions depending on the issue.

 It’s best used as part of an integrative plan. Reflexology complements—but does not replace—medical therapies when needed.

 Yes—with modifications. We offer prenatal reflexology to help with swelling, sleep, and discomfort.

 Absolutely. Reflexology pairs well with acupuncture, IV therapy, bioidentical hormones, and lifestyle coaching.

 It’s not effective as a sole treatment for infections, cancer, or acute trauma but can support overall wellness alongside primary care.

 We are an out-of-network provider, but we provide superbills for reimbursement. Reflexology may be covered under some HSAs or FSAs.