The Reflexology Minute: Hips

Today's Topic: Reflexology for the Hips
You will learn: 

• How to address hip pain using reflexology
• Location of hip reflexology points in your feet
• Location of lower back reflexology points in your feet
• Hip concerns & dysfunction

 
Whether you suffer from acute or chronic pain in your hips due to an injury or a wearing away of the ligaments, which can lead to hip replacement surgery, or a wearing away of cartilage, which can lead to osteoarthritis, there is something you can do from a reflexology perspective. 

What happens when you press on a reflexology point?
When you press on reflexology points you are sending the message from the reflexology point back to the area of concern. This increases blood flow to the area and induces a relaxation response.
 
Location of Hip Reflexology Points:
The hip reflexology points are located behind and underneath the outer ankle bones (also known as the lateral malleoli, which are the distal ends of your fibulas) on both ankles. The right side corresponds to your right hip and the left side corresponds to your left hip. To access points effectively finger or thumb walk down behind ankle bone and then underneath, creating an “L” shape towards your pinky toe. The point technically ends underneath the ankle bone. If you are unfamiliar with thumb or finger walking you can simply press or rub the area with your pointer finger or thumb.

Location of Lower Back Reflexology Points:
The lower back reflexology points are located behind and underneath the inner ankle bones (also known as the medial malleoli, which are the bases of the tibias) on both ankles. We give attention to the lower back as some hip pain is associated with the lower back or sacrum. In reflexology, the lumbar area extends a little further up towards the big toe on the insides of the feet (also known as the medial aspect). If you'd like to address more of the lumbar spine you can extend your work further (as pictured below).

To reach these points you can:

• Sit in a chair and bend over;
• Sit on floor bending one leg behind (to access the outer ankle bone) and one leg in front (to access the inner ankle bone);
• Place foot in lap to access lower back reflexology points (on inside of ankles);
• Lie comfortably on a couch or bed and have someone do it for you.

 
These points can be addressed safely multiple times a day. If you have hip pain or concerns, consider doing these points a few times a day. They are also incredibly effective before and after a movement class or workout or can be used as a preventative measure.

Reflexology is not a substitute for medical care. Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose, prognose, or prescribe. If you have concerns about your health, seek advice from your doctor or health care provider.

Photos by Janette Paule