Diabetes interferes with the function of the pancreas in blood sugar regulation. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels can affect blood vessels and nerve endings in the kidneys, eyes, heart, feet, brain and skin. Diabetics may develop high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, vision problems and poor circulation to hands and feet, among other problems. The good news is that with proper medical care, diet and weight control leading to well-regulated blood sugar levels, diabetics can prevent many health complications.

Foot reflexology is a beneficial therapy for diabetes in several ways. First, massage of the pancreas reflex zone can improve pancreatic function, leading to better regulated blood sugar and a possible reduction in need for insulin or oral diabetes medications. Second, reflexology directly improves blood circulation in the feet and hands. This can help prevent problems such as delayed wound healing in feet and legs.

Third, reflexology improves nerve conduction and can reduce nerve pain. This is especially important in preventing and treating diabetic neuropathy in hands and feet. For people that do have diabetic nerve pain, foot reflexology can soothe at least some of the pain.

Diabetes can adversely affect many of the organs in the body. Foot reflexology, which enhances the function of organs and glands, can be a valuable part of a diabetic’s treatment and health promotion regimen.

Denise Held, RN, a certified Reflexolo-Chi foot reflexologist, has office hours at the Natural Healing Center, 2002 Hogback Rd., Ste. 14, in Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734-649-2891, email [email protected] or visit A2Reflexology.com.