Exploring Reflexology’s Impact within the Brain
Brain scans acquired during recent research provide evidence of validity and proof of concept for reflexology. As foot reflexology was applied to study participants, brain images were acquired by fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging). The brain images showed activation in areas of the brain not related to the foot. Thus demonstrated is feasibility for the concepts of reflexology’s effects throughout the body and benefits for wellness as well as health concerns. (Read more)
Reflexology: Exploring Unexpected Connections in Spinal Cord Injury
Every story has its beginnings and the answer to a question asked of a client by Barbara and Kevin Kunz in 1980 would lead to the Kunz’s 2023 foot reflexology research project at an fMRI laboratory at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine. Theories and ideas about how reflexology effects the nervous system researched and developed during the intervening years would lead to innovations in reflexology as well as credible concepts prompting a scientist
to suggest fMRI research.(Read more)
The Impact of Reflexology on Stroke Recovery
t’s Mum. I’d do anything,” says British reflexology student Gayle about her decision to apply reflexology to her mother.
Dawn was lying unconscious in the A&E (Accident & Emergency department) after being diagnosed with a “massive” stroke. Read more.
Investigating Reflexology as a Potential Adjunct in Sudden Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation”
It started as just an ordinary day but what happened that day in 1981 would be anything but ordinary for Barbara and Kevin Kunz. Witnessing sudden cardiac arrest and then effectively applying a reflexology technique that day would be the source of continual discussion over the years about why this would happen. A second incident (see below) would confirm the decision some to include the technique as the first test in fMRI research at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine in 2023.(Read more)
Reflexology Research and Patients
Supported by Mechanical Ventilation
What does research show when reflexology is applied to the most critical of hospital patients, those on mechanical ventilation? For medical practitioners researched results show the potential for reflexology as a safe, low cost, efficacious, non-pharmacological intervention for breathing with the support of mechanical ventilation.(Read more)
Footprints of Innovation: The Pioneering Journey of Barbara and Kevin Kunz in Reflexology Research and Practice
Barbara and Kevin Kunz are internationally recognized reflexologists, authors and educators. Beginning with work with clients paralyzed by spinal cord injury in 1980, the Kunzes’ research and development over the years shaped ideas and theories of reflexology practice within the nervous system. Their work lead to interest from the scientific community resulting in an fMRI research project
conducted in 2023.(Read more)