5 Key Differences Between the Chinese and Western Reflexology Treatment

The questions on reflexology are many. Many people with debilitating physical conditions can benefit hugely from reflexology treatment. As more and more people are discovering reflexology and how it is helping the people cope with various illnesses, people want to know more and more about reflexology and how it can bring a positive effect to our bodies and minds.

The first question that comes to common people’s mind is what is the chief differences between Chinese and Western Reflexology and if there is really some difference at all? Before we unravel what are the benefits of reflexology treatment, we must find out what the differences between Chinese are and Western Reflexology and which one is more beneficial for us.

The Location of the Points

The chief differences between the two kinds of reflexologies are the location of points. The study of its foot charts can reveal certain basic differences like:

• Heart for Chinese reflexology is located below the ball of foot whereas in Western reflexology on the foot.
• Thyroid for Chinese reflexology is located on the ball of foot whereas in Western reflexology is located on the big toe.
• Solar plexus for Chinese Reflexology is located in the center while for western reflexology is located on one side.
• Stomach located on inside edge of both feet for Chinese reflexology. But for Western Reflexology below the ball of the left foot.
• Pancreas is located on inside edge of both feet. Whereas in western reflexology, it is located on the ball of left foot.
• The spleen is different in shape for both reflexologies.
• In Chinese reflexology liver is located in the outer quadrant of the right foot whereas in Western reflexology it is located in the large area under the ball of the right foot.
• For kidney, it is located in a higher position and is larger for Chinese position whereas in the western reflexology it is smaller in comparison.
• Adrenal is located directly above kidney in Chinese Reflexology whereas it is diagonally located above the kidney.
• In Chinese reflexology, bladder it is smaller in comparison to the one in western reflexology.
• The sciatic nerve is located on the edge of the calf for Chinese reflexology whereas in Western Reflexology it is located on the heel of the foot.
• The uterus and prostrate and the ovary and the testes are located in a large area in Chinese reflexology and a smaller area in Western Reflexology.

Intensity of Massage

In western reflexology, the intensity of the massage is very gentle and is within the boundary of the comfort zone of the patient while it is the opposite in the case the Chinese reflexology. The practitioner ensures that when they find the point where the patient is hurting most, they would apply more pressure and continue to do so till they find the “Qi” flowing in the body with the right intensity. Whereas it can be a painful experience for the patient it also heals more quickly.