Thoughts on Stroke and Reflexology

Hereʼs quick summation of our thoughts about reflexology and how it impacts stroke recovery:
• Following the chaos created by a stroke event, reflexology provides a means of re-establishing contact between the brain and foot.
• Just as certain procedures are followed to “re-boot” or restart a computer following chaos in its system, reflexology provides key information to re-order a disordered brain.
• Under any circumstances, perception of pressure by the foot is central to the function of walking.
• As the brain tries to re-organize itself during a chaotic situation, a stroke, application of reflexologyʼs pressure techniques to parts of the foot particularly meaningful to the locomotive process sends a “ping” through the system providing key information for the re-organization.
• Continued application of reflexology techniques contributes to the bodyʼs re-building process.

Pressure to the feet, in essence, shows activity is taking place when there is none. prompting the brain to figure things out

The right tool, pressue is applied to the appropriate part of the body, the foot, itself a specialist in perceiving pressure for the purpose of locomotion.

Pressure applied to the foot, thus, re-starting the bodyʼs locomotive function. Incoming pressure sensory information “re-boots” the system.
We have considered information gathered during: our work with Nadine, our conversation with the head of the physical therapy department at Nadineʼs skilled nursing center, anecdotal accounts of reflexologistsʼ responses to witnessing a stroke event and the few exisiting studies.

We are considering the following possible uses for which a reflexology technique and/or protocol could be applied:
• Revival: A CPR-like technique to be applied by those who witness a stroke event. Goal: revival. • First response: A two-step protocol to be applied by first responders and/or emergency room personnel. Goal: preserving mobility and mitigating effects of stroke event.

• Prevention: Mobility Recognized stress cue sighn of stroke to prompt the applicatioon of stroke- proofing technique.

Barbara and Kevin Kunz