Reflexology is an ancient healing art that can be used as an alternative treatment for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). It is based on the concept that the body is divided into different zones and applying pressure to one area of a zone can relieve pain and symptoms somewhere else in that same zone.
If you are interested in finding drug-free ways to try to relieve pain, you might find reflexology to be helpful without experiencing any side effects. Another benefit is that it may help you relax and relieve stress. Stress-related tension is a common cause of CP/CPP. Even though practitioners and Websites for reflexology claim that reflexology helps to relieve prostate pain, there is no scientific evidence backing up these claims, so you do have to approach this treatment with that in mind.
How Does Reflexology Treatment for Prostatitis Work?
Reflexologists are trained in reflexology, but these practitioners are not physicians and have no required formal training. If you decide to use a reflexologist, it is important to find out if he or she is certified by the American Reflexology Certification Board and has received a minimum of 200 hours of instruction.
The reflexology session may last 30 minutes to 1 hour and should help you feel relaxed. The reflexologist will use stretches, pressure, and movements to manipulate reflex points. If you experience any discomfort, you should let them know.
Reflexology treatment for prostatitis can be convenient if you or a partner learn the correct spots, called reflex points, to treat you at home or anywhere. When treating pain associated with CP/CPPS, you’ll want to apply pressure to the zone that includes the groin. The reflex points for the prostate include the back of the foot (where the leg meets the foot) and the back of the hands (just beyond the wrist on the thumb side). It is best to have an experienced reflexologist teach you the correct spots and how to do it.
You can also consult a reflexology chart to locate the exact locations and instructions, but in general, the prostate points on the feet are found an inch below the anklebone. You will pinch the base of each heel with the thumb and forefinger, applying steady and firm pressure. Then begin to use a milking motion, slowly moving from the base of your heel toward your anklebone. Do this for a few minutes two to three times a day.
Other Alternative Treatments for Prostatitis
If you are looking for other drug-free ways to relax and relieve prostatitis pain, there are many other natural and alternative treatments for prostatitis that have more research behind them than reflexology. Some of the more common and researched therapies include prostate massage, trigger point release therapy, physiotherapy, and acupuncture. Men whose CP/CPPS symptoms are related to stress many employ stress management techniques and do stress-relieving exercises like yoga, meditation, and tai chi. Whatever types of therapies you choose, you need to be patient with your progress and understand that most men with prostatitis find relief after trying a number of different treatments.