Restore Reflexology

Breaking news! Brain Scan Research Confirms Reflexology Affects Multiple Areas of the Brain.
Recent research is building scientific evidence that reflexology creates specific, measurable responses in the brain — and may play a meaningful role in stroke rehabilitation.
Dr. Stefan Posse, a researcher at the University of New Mexico, presented groundbreaking functional MRI (fMRI) findings on the “Neural Pathways of Applied Reflexology” at the International Society for Medical Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) Annual Meeting in Cape Town on May 12, 2026.

The research maps brain activity during foot reflexology to understand what happens in the brain in real time while reflexology was being applied and neurological impact in patients with stroke. Advanced MRI technology was used.

What They Found in Healthy People

Scans revealed distinctly different activation patterns for different reflex areas. Importantly, the brain responses weren’t limited to just the foot area of the brain — multiple regions were activated. One area that consistently responded was the supramarginal gyrus, a part of the brain packed with “mirror neurons,” which are linked to empathy, learning, and body awareness.

For the first time showed reflexology technique applied to different reflexology reflex areas activates different areas and networks of the brain in healthy controls and stroke patients.

What They Found in Stroke Patients

In people who had suffered a stroke, the brain activation looked different — more one-sided — and varied depending on whether the left or right foot was worked. Following the application of reflex stimuli, patients demonstrated increased two-point discrimination and improved sensorimotor function in their hemiplegic hands.

Who Is Behind the Research

The team is led by Dr. Posse and includes well-known reflexology educators Barbara and Kevin Kunz, graduate student Arthur Schoen, and researchers from the University of Minnesota.

What Comes Next

The team is now expanding the study to better understand the timing of brain responses during reflexology and to identify exactly which brain networks are involved in stroke recovery.

Happy Easter from Restore Reflexology!

💚 March is Liver Health Month 💚
Your liver does a lot including filtering, detoxifying, balancing… all day, every day.
But when life gets busy, stress, inadequate sleep, and daily habits can take a toll on how your body functions overall.
👣 Reflexology can help support your body’s natural liver function to help you function at your best.
This Liver Health Month, take a moment to care for the systems that care for you.
🔎 Find a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist (RCRT™):
www.reflexologycanada.org

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! 🍂

Reflexology week is a good time to try reflexology!

Can a foot Reflexology help with migraines?
Science says YES! 🧠✨
A new randomized controlled trial has revealed something remarkable:
Foot reflexology significantly reduced migraine pain in participants — offering a safe, natural, drug-free option for relief.
For the millions navigating chronic migraines, this isn’t just pampering — it’s evidence-based support. 💆‍♀️
Imagine reclaiming your day, your energy, your calm — one step at a time.
🔬 Explore the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40486630
💡 Looking for reflexology experts? RCRTs™ are trained, certified and registered professionals delivering reflexology that works — rooted in tradition, backed by research.

Each January, the Alzheimer Society of Canada takes part in Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.
Everyone’s journey with dementia is different. But no one should have to walk it alone.
Studies have found regular reflexology sessions can help manage distress in those living with dementia, particularly for individuals in nursing homes.
SOURCE: Hodgson, N. A., & Andersen, S. (2008).
If your loved one is living with dementia, ask their primary care provider if reflexology could be added to their treatment plan. Find a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist (RCRT™) near you at www.reflexologycanada.org
Let's continue to support those living with and care for those with dementia with Reflexology!

Want to calm a fussy baby?