Wednesday, February 24, 2010

What is Reflexology? New Brochure Released

We have just released a new brochure to add to your arsenal of credibility building tools for your reflexology practice. It is called "What is Reflexology/". This brochure simply outlines the basic questions like the history, research, benefits and what a client can expect from a session.

And if you aren't a reflexologist it is a good little guide to what reflexology is and how it works.

It is a free download. If you have trouble with the download email us and we will send you a copy. It is copyright protected.

Try it out with your new clients.


Kevin Kunz


Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Dosing, Cancer and Reflexology

“Dose: exact amount of a medicine or extent of some other treatment to be given or taken at one time or at stated intervals.” Webster’s New World Dictionary

Thanks to the work of Dr. Nancy Stephenson, the concept of dosing has come to reflexology. Dr. Stephenson, associate professor of nursing at Eastern Carolina University in Greenville, NC and certified reflexologist, has conducted four studies exploring specific aspects of reflexology work applied to alleviate pain with cancer patients. Through her research she has established “dosing” parameters, how much reflexology is applied to what effect. In addition, she has demonstrated that “partners,” trained family members, can reduce the pain of a cancer patient.

Such work makes Dr. Stephenson’s studies unique among twenty-one studies about reflexology and cancer. All show significant improvements in physical and emotional symptoms of those experiencing cancer, specifically demonstrating that reflexology aids cancer care: lessens pain; decreases nausea, vomiting and fatigue; improves quality of life and quality of sleep; lifts mood; and lessens anxiety and stress.



Dr. Stephenson’s interest in reflexology started during her doctoral studies at the University of South Carolina at Columbia when a committee member suggested she write an article about reflexology. Over the following year, she became certified by the International Institute of Reflexology and then expanded her interest in reflexology to research.

For her doctoral dissertation, Dr. Stephenson “used a crossover design to compare reflexology with usual care in 23 inpatients with cancer.” Her results found a significant decrease in pain and anxiety for those who received a reflexology session compared to those who had not. See (1). For her postdoctoral studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill she studied 36 patients with cancer and “found a significant decrease in pain and anxiety immediately following the intervention (reflexology)… (establishing) a dosage time of 30 minutes.”

In further research of effects and duration, she found that reflexology work created a positive and immediate effect on pain with effects dissipated both at 3 hours and 24 hours after intervention. Such work establishes a frequency of application effectiveness and duration for a 30-minute reflexology session. One could say that, just as a dose of pain medication is administered, so too could be a “dose” of reflexology. Now that Stephenson’s research has established a three hour window of impact, an effective “dose” could be administered every 3 hours. (2)

The importance of Stephenson’s work is in the discussion of dosing in the application of reflexology. While Chinese researchers speak in terms of frequency, duration and intensity in the application of reflexology, encompassing such ideas into the term “dosing” brings reflexology more in line with recognized concepts. Her work specifically addresses cancer care but opens the door for reflexologists to approach their work in any number of situations. After all, a common question for the reflexologist from a client or prospective client is: How long do you think this is going to take? With concrete information from research, the reflexologist can speak with authority to answer the question. (For “dosing” information garnered from research for some 78 health concerns, see Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists.)



Read More


Barbara Kunz







Monday, February 22, 2010

Rare Find: The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology (Original Edition)

While moving some boxes in the garage we came across some orginal editions of The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology. These are not first editions (1982) but rather an edition that were printed around 1991. The rights to The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology had been returned to us. We then did this printing prior to revising The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology.

This edition is no longer in print in the US. A lot of people liked this edition because it was a simple and straight forward approach.

These copies have never been out of the box they came in and are in mint condition. We are offering a limited autographed edition for sale at $59.95 a piece. plus shipping.

First come, first served. Once they are gone they are gone. Act now!!!

Add to cart

Kevin Kunz


Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Reflexology and Earache in Children


The earache is back—as a topic for suggested guidelines from doctor’s organizations. A recent Wall Street Journal (WSJ) article presents virtually the same information as a WSJ article published in 2004: no more antibiotics for children with earache. The recent article, however, modifies the organizations’ stand to suggest antibiotics to treat ear ache in children under the age of 2 and those who are very ill. At issue is the widespread use of antibiotics and its long term impact on children. Doctors know the statistics: 80% of ear infections in children will go away on their own in a few days contrasted with 90% when antibiotics are used. But what’s a doctor to do when face-to-face with a concerned parent and an ill child? Many times the answer is: prescribe antibiotics.

While no known research explores the topic of reflexology’s impact on earache, anecdotal accounts note the effectiveness of reflexology to help children recover. Reflexology can (possibly) help on many fronts. In addition to aiding concerned parents and ill children, medical costs could be impacted. Earache is, after all, one of the leading reasons for doctors visits for children under the age of 5. Seventy-five percent of children under five will have an ear ache or recurring ear aches.

Newspaper accounts note reflexology’s effectiveness:
• Heather, age five, had been plagued by constant ear infections. Her treatments included: removal of tonsils and adenoids, tube put in her ears, hospitalization and medication. Her mother found relief for her through reflexology treatment. “'It was unbelievable,” Mrs. Ridenour said, “I would not have believed it had I not been there and seen it. I honestly believe that is what cleared it up.”
• Little Alexander had failed a hearing test at the age of 8 months. Tests revealed a blockage of the eustachian tubes and concerns were raised about problems that could result in speech development. After three weeks of work by a reflexologist, Alexander’s cold had not returned and he would turn his head at the sound of a whisper.
• Alistair faced a second round of adenoid and ear operations due to “glue ear,” the production of too much fluid in the middle ear that can not drain away because the tube that normally drains it away has become blocked, often caused by repeated middle ear infections. After a reflexology session, Alistair said his ears felt better and his parents noticed improvement after his third visit.

Such stories remind us of moms we have known and their ionclusion of reflexology to up-keep their family’s health. One mother has her reflexology book marked for easy convenice to apply techniques tailored to each family member. If you have such a story, write us and share with others.
(Mathews,  Anna Wilde, “When the Best RX is No Rx,” Wall Street Journal,  February, 16, 2010, p. D1 and “Groups to Urge No Antibiotics for Most Earaches in Children,” Wall Street Journal, March 3, 2004, p. D3)

 Resources

Kevin Kunz

Facebook www.facebook.com/kevin.kunz 



Monday, February 15, 2010

Dynamic Duo Reflexology Research Offer


Dynamic Duo Reflexology Offer
Add legitimacy and credibilty to your reflexology practice with research. Get 25 free research flyers personalized with your name and phone number when you buy Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists. With this special offer, you’ll be able to advertise your business, adding to the validdity of your practice, with flyers telling others about reflexology research. In addition, you’ll learn more about research with the 88-page research document. You will speak with authority when a client or prospective client asks, Can reflexology help me?  Evidence-Based has the answers, listing 78 disorders, what research has found, and how much reflexology application is needed to create healthy results.

This is a $40 savings!!!
We are offering for one week only this special.




Note: There is a $6.50 shipping and handling charge for the pamphlet. Be sure to tell us how you want the research brochure personalized. Thank you.


Thursday, February 11, 2010

First Impressions Matter with Reflexology Clients

Reference Work for the Reflexologist
Confusion for a reflexologist arose when the new client said that he had kidney failure and then asked if reflexology could help. The reflexologist wasn't sure how to respond. Answering professionally in such a situation helps the reflexologist make a crucial good first impression for a new client. The easiest answer to such a question is citing research. If you’re not aware of the specific research, a reference work helps make a smooth professional transition to finding the answer.

It’s not unusal for the professional to keep on hand a reference work. For doctors, it’s the P. D. A. For the mental health profession, it’s the DSM. The first, the Physician’s Desk Reference, serves as a list of information about prescribed drugs. Doctors can’t know it all about the myriad of drugs so the P. D. A. is a reference tool to be consulted when a question arises. The DSM is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is a reference tool, listing some 300 agreed-upon labels for the diagnoses of mental health concerns. This reference tool serves to clarify diagnosis parameters and provide a common vocabulary for mental health professionals.

For reflexologists, Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists provides reference for research information. For hemodialysis, two studies are cited on page 88 noting reflexology’s effects on hemodialysis patients. So, when asked the above question, the easy answer is I don’t know about specific research but let me look it up. Evidence-Based also notes dosing for successful application. One study cited improvements in 4 parameters important to hemodialysis patients with application for 10 minutes, five / week for five weeks. The other notes improvements with work of 10 minutes, five times over 3 days.



One other way to establish a lasting first impression is to have a new client presentation folder. In my practice I gave out a presentation folders with our business card, newsletters and an article we published in a CAM journal. Presentation folders are reasonable from office supply stores. Develop your own package. Make it something you would want to receive. 


Our recent brochure, "Can Reflexology Help Me?" is an example of how you can give a good first impression.  Based on Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists, it is meant to establish credibility with your clients by giving them a simplified overview of the research that has been done.


 Remember first impressions are often lasting impressions. How do you establish credibility?



Kevin Kunz






Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Reflexology and the Global Health Crisis

The challenge of providing health care is an issue around the world with CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) seen as a possible form of relief for governments struggling to meet health care demands of their citizens. So, where does reflexology fit into such a discussion?

While admittedly I haven’t carefully researched the issue, I was interested in what was said about it in a survey of American medical school students. In the recent research, it is noted “Complementary and alternative medicine is receiving increased attention in light of the global health crisis and the significant role of traditional medicine in meeting public health needs in developing countries,” said study author Ryan Abbott, a researcher at the UCLA Center for East-West Medicine. “Integrating CAM into mainstream health care is now a global phenomenon, with policy makers at the highest levels endorsing the importance of a historically marginalized form of health care.”

Hmmm. If I were to substitute the word reflexology for “complementary and alternative medicine” or CAM, would it create accurate statements? Well…I suppose you could quibble over “developing” countries (China? Korea?). But … “historically marginalized form of health care?” I mulled it over…history…marginalized. OK, I can see that. We’re talking about the official sanctioning of an idea by the government and the health care professionals of a country.

You know what? I decided my problem was with the part: “Integrating CAM into mainstream health care is now a global phenomenon”—the word now, specifically. I state here and now, au contraire. Inject the word reflexology into these statements and what you have is not an accurate portrayal of reflexology. You cannot make such a blanket statement.

Take reflexology use in China, for example. You cannot say that integrating reflexology into mainstream health care is a phenomena in China. It is a fact established over twenty years of government and medical profession sanctioned use. And, twenty years ago they acted on years of research that established reflexology as valid.

China has a rich tradition of reflexology dating back millennia—and including ancient medical uses. In modern times, reflexology use for medical care has been under development with government encouragement for twenty years. In 1991, following years of research into reflexology by medical doctors, the Ministry of Health approved organization of the China Reflexology Association confirming the role of reflexology in “preventing and curing diseases, and preserving health.” In the intervening years it is probable that thousands of randomized controlled trials (RCT) have been conducted. Twenty years ago, it was research into constipation and reflexology. More recently it’s constipation with stroke patients and postpartum mothers. A Class One license is issued to reflexologists who practice in medicine. Patients are released from hospital stays and sent home with self or family reflexology programs to be applied. Today—now— the Chinese government has decided its million reflexologists are not enough—five million are needed and training standards need to be increased.

And guess what? It’s not just a matter of “Integrating reflexology into mainstream health care.” It’s a matter of understanding how the “traditional medicine” is utilized. Countries that have integrated reflexology into their mainstream medical systems have actually integrated uses of reflexology into society as a whole. Aside from reflexology use in medical care in China, reflexology parlors thrive with knowledgeable consumers seeking to “treat” themselves with reflexology (as opposed to expecting medical results), at home reflexology is common and senior citizens line up twice a day in parks to participate in the “fashionable fitness activity.” Chinese doctors discuss the healthy benefits of tap shek (reflexology path walking). The government has encouraged tap shek use including it in its ten year Fitness Plan and funding the building of paths in parks and sports/fitness centers.

And, don’t get me started about Korea. Their nurses undertook 59 reflexology studies from 1990 to 2007. It’s many more now. And, by the way, there are 20 reflexology paths in Seoul—some built just for children—with more scattered about the country.

So what am I saying here? Wake up Western health policy makers. Your counterparts in the Far East are a generation and more ahead of you in their successful use of reflexology to help their citizens’ health. Also, you’ll need to do more than just recognize how patients can benefit from reflexology use by medicine, more than merely making it another medical care service. You must explore and give credence to what individuals can do for their own health. Recognize what individuals themselves contribute by walking the reflexology path, applying self reflexology, and using reflexology for their families. (There are studies in all of these areas, by the way.)

Back to my main point: where does reflexology fit in for governments struggling to meet health care needs? That’s a tough one. Frankly, people are already fitting reflexology into their own health seeking habits. I guess, the best that can be said is that one day, policy makers will notice—maybe.



Barbara Kunz



Monday, February 8, 2010

Reflexology Research Excitement

94 countries and 10,000 plus in sales—those are the numbers for the week for the flyer Can Reflexology Help Me? So popular had been the research pamphlet that Web hits have doubled at www.reflexology-research.com.

Such numbers offer plenty to think about. What a great feeling to know that around the world, the research pamphlet is being downloaded on hard discs, links emailed to others and paper copies being ordered for dissemination. It’s possibly the most excitement we’ve seen in reflexology information since the publication of The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology with its first-ever description and illustration of how-to-do foot reflexology—and that was yes, thirty years ago.

What’s all the excitement? Maybe it’s because there’s finally an answer to the question we’ve all heard over the years: Do you think reflexology will ever be legitimized? Certainly the doctors, nurses and others who conducted the research reported in the research pamphlet give reply to what a survey of reflexologists found: 90% of reflexologists agreed that “I think the scientists and doctors could figure out reflexology if they tried.”

That was 25 years ago. Now today, it’s coming true.




Kevin Kunz


Friday, February 5, 2010

Reflexology Research Pamphlet Smash Hit

We have enjoyed the communication from everyone about and prompted by the reflexology research pamphlet, "Can Reflexology Help Me?' Research shows what reflexology can do for you."We just wanted to share these comments with you. If you haven't seen the flyer please click here

"Just ordered some brochures for my office-Good Job Barbara !"
"thanks a lot kevin for sending me a free download reflexology pamphlet... this is a big help to a reflexology like me MAY GOD BLESS U..."
"Very cool!  The research data really adds rather than just telling what reflexology is."
"Amazing Kevin... well done to you :-)"
"Thanks for the download. I like the way it's layout."
"Good stuff...thank you, Kevin"
"Thanks, Kevin. Lots of good information in this pamphlet."
"awesome! thanks bunches!"
"thank you for your hard work and helping us out. :)"
" Kevin, Thanks for the info--research is great &  practical /clinical evidence with positive results are even better"
thank you, these look great!
"Very informative and complete. This will help me in my current studies and focus on specific applications. Thanks!"

There are other comments this provoked:
"I have been a reflexologist in Maryland for 4 years now.  Your work is inspiring and I love your research!!  ...
 "Thank You for all you do!"
"Your Book help me so MUCH."
"I have all your books and love em.  Thanks"
"i am sooo enjoying what i am learning through reading the posts you put up."
"Hi Kevin, I am a massive fan of your work and research. Thank you for the email and I am going to get some of your ebooks."

You know it is so nice to hear positive feedback. Thank you all. 


Thursday, February 4, 2010

Reflexology Treat or Treatment

We are in difficult economic times. People are looking a lot at what they spend to see if there is financial justification for spending the money on luxuries. Even the rich are forgoing luxuries in favor of what is a necessity.

Reflexology for a long time has been viewed as a "treat" or a luxury by many people. But as economic times have worsened many reflexologists have lost clients who are cutting back on those "treats".

So what is the solution for the reflexologists? It is important for the reflexologist to point out the value of the service and provide financial justification for its purchase.

As shown in the research document and highlighted by the research pamphlet  not only does reflexology makes someone feel good (relaxation and pain reduction) it provides health enhancements. These include boosting the system, helping your body work better and helping you through a special time. There is even research that shows a single reflexology session has specific health benefits.

But the good news doesn't end there. A series of sessions have been shown to improve the body overall by helping every part of it. If your client can feel there is more to reflexology than being a simple treat you have won them over.

Can Reflexology Help Me?  Research shows what reflexology can do for you. (a pamphlet to give to your clients or prospects) based on Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists.

Evidence-Based Reflexology for Reflexologists (Learn what research has shown to be an identifiable value)

Can Reflexology Help Me? Widget (a free widget to put on your web site, blog or Facebook page).


Kevin Kunz


Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Reflexology Research Pamphlet

Reflexology Research Pamphlet
Finally got the pricing straighten out on these pamphlets. We have been getting some really nice comments.

These are personalized charts. We are looking into a "stamp your own" version.

Kevin Kunz