How Does Reflexology Help in the Treatment of Low Back Pain?

Eight out of ten adults will experience pain in the lumbar region — that is, the lower back — at some point in their lives.

What It Is

The term lumbago (low back pain) comes from the words “lumbar” (the lower part of the spine) and “algia” (pain). About 80% of people are affected by lower back pain at some stage in their lives, regardless of the underlying cause. This condition most commonly appears during the fourth and fifth decades of life.

Low back pain can be classified according to its duration as follows:

• Acute low back pain (duration under 4 weeks),
• Subacute low back pain (duration 4 to 12 weeks),
• Chronic low back pain (duration over 12 weeks).

Causes of Low Back Pain

The causes of low back pain are varied and are most often related to benign musculoskeletal conditions, such as spondyloarthritis, osteoporosis, or herniated intervertebral disc. It is also common to observe narrowing of the lower lumbar intervertebral spaces, involving one or more discs, which may be accompanied by degenerative changes in the spinal joints.

Other possible causes may include traumatic injuries involving strain or rupture of muscle fibers and ligaments, spondylolisthesis, spondylolysis, or genetic variations. In some cases, inflammatory conditions, kidney stones, or even psychological factors may also contribute to the development of low back pain.

Reflexology stimulates the central nervous system, helping the body restore harmony and natural function.

This theory is based on research conducted in 1890 by Sir Henry Head and Sir Charles Sherrington, who demonstrated through their studies that there is a neurological connection between the skin and the internal organs. They also showed that the entire nervous system adapts and responds to external stimuli, forming the foundation for understanding how reflexology influences the body’s self-regulating mechanisms.

According to this theory, the pressure applied by the reflexologist on the feet sends a calming signal from the peripheral nervous system (the feet) to the central nervous system. In response, the body is instructed to adjust its level of tension, bringing the muscles and internal organs into a state of optimal function. At the same time, blood circulation increases, delivering additional oxygen and nutrients to the cells and enhancing the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste.

In the case of low back pain, nerve-reflexology plays an important role. By stimulating the anterior and posterior nerve roots at the L1–L5 level and the specific neuro-reflex point of the quadratus lumborum muscle, the entire lumbar region is released and rebalanced, promoting relief and improved mobility.

The number of sessions required for a person to return to their normal daily activities depends on the underlying cause of the condition. It has been observed that when the issue is muscular or acute in nature, just one session is often enough to help the client restore balance and reach a state of homeostasis.

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