The main difference between the two is in theory and technique, but for all practical purposes they can be used together for back pain relief and associated anxiety and depression. In reflexology pressure is applied with the fingers and thumbs to specific points on the feet, ears, or hands. These points correspond to different parts of the body such as the back, various muscle groups, and internal organs. The reflexology discussion will cover only points on the hands because you can easily and unobtrusively access these points in any setting. Acupressure is an ancient healing technique, in which finger or thumb pressure is placed on specific points on the body.
Acupressure is similar in principle to acupuncture, in which needles are inserted.
The main distinction between reflexology and acupressure is that in acupressure points all over the body are activated, whereas in reflexology, these points are limited to the ears, feet, and hands. However, in this chapter we refer to both acupressure and reflexology points as healing points , and they are referred to by number on the charts at the end of the chapter. The key to both reflexology and acupressure is the concept of chi , the vital life force energy flowing throughout the body. Indeed, in Chinese medicine, practitioners seek to balance and harmonize the body to ensure an uninterrupted flow of chi. This is the foundation of the Chinese healing arts.