Many people with MS want to augment any medical help they receive with complementary therapy’s benefits. Reflexology is a natural therapy traditionally practised in Egypt and China; it originated more than 4,000 years ago and is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to every organ, gland, and structure of the body. Gentle pressure is applied to the reflex points by the therapist’s hands to promote balance and harmony. Reflexologists do not diagnose but work with their clients to energise and rejuvenate the whole body, mind, and spirit.

The benefits that reflexology may bring to people with MS include:

• The ability to walk better.
• The return of sensation to areas that experience numbness and tingling.
• Relief from heaviness in the limbs.
• Improved bladder control.
• Pain relief.
• Help with spasms.
• The easing of depression.
• Better muscle control.
• Help with constipation.
• Improved circulation.
• A reduction in oedema, the ability to recover quicker from relapses.
• An increase in energy.
• An improved sense of wellbeing.

It is thought that some people feel points of tenderness in the feet when the reflexologists are working on them, this can be assumed as a positive sign. This indicates an imbalance in the body that needs attention.

The reflexologist can work in such a way that any passing discomfort is minimal. Reflexology is known to aid other ailments in people of all ages. This therapy treats the whole person, not just a particular complaint. Reflexology is suitable for people of all ages and works well with other treatments and therapies.