I don't blame the skepticism. It does not really work the way they think it does. It has some effect though different on each person, it works on some and some not at all. It could be the placebo effect or something we do not understand, as in causing the release of hormones or endorphins. What I do know about it is that I have had many girlfriends that have suffered tremendously with their feet. Partly due to the ridiculous wearing of high heels and/or long hours on their feet. Through massages area's that I did learn from reflexology, I was able to relieve a great deal of pain not only in their feet but the rest of their bodies too. I truly believe in the art of body massage. There are different types, the deep tissue massage can do more damage than good. The correct type can realign the body which is so important and comes under chiropractic type philosophies. Body realignment is more important, muscle realignment and relaxation is important, getting tissue away from nerve ending is very important, breaking up of knotted tissue and muscle can help. These things I know work. They relax, relieve stress, tension, pain, headaches, even other ailments due to these conditions. Whether it's reflexology, acupuncture or a jacuzzi, it all helps. Certain people more than others. I don't think it is fully understood why these things work, if they do. One avenue to check out on the cutting edge is usually in sports medicine. To learn what they are doing treatment wise and apply it to yourself is a good idea. I doubt you will find a double blind study. I even feel the double blind way is outdated. We do not understand the human mind and how it effects the body. We do not as of yet understand the mind body connection, we are just scratching the surface. Is reflexology real? Does it work? If the person who is being treated thinks it does then it does even if it's a sugar pill.

This will give you a good starting point - http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/reflex.html Remember, kids, Woo-woo like reflexology can and has killed people in the past.

I've been to 3 different reflexologists. The first one, I couldn't even feel anything - it was lame. The second one asked if I bowel issues (I did) and she mentioned that there was something in the adrenal area (I am always in the fight state). The third one noticed the bowel and adrenal issue too. I didn't tell either I had these issues. So, reflexology is good to tell you if something is off in your system but it certainly doesn't make it better (but maybe because I don't go regularly). If they do it right, it is a great foot massage. You can also read a chart and work it out on your own foot.