For Americans, back pain is one of the leading causes of health distress. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), Americans spend about $50 billion annually to treat lower back pain. Though there are common OTC medicines from which one might choose to treat this common ailment, consider this -- a recent study on reflexology shows promise to help in healing this painful condition.

What is reflexology and how can it help treat back pain?

Reflexology is an ancient healing art that is both energy medicine and bodywork. Founded on the belief that specific "reflex areas" on the souls of the feet, palms of the hands, and ears correspond to specific areas and organs of the body, reflexology is similarly applied like acupressure. Using gentle but firm finger, thumb and hand pressure - a certified or massage therapist attempts to balance the energy flow from these reflex zones to specific regions of the body.

If you suffer from lower back pain, there is good news. While many of us cringe from lower back pain due to age, arthritis, sprains, strains or even bulging discs, we know how frustrating it can be to combat these hurtful pangs that sometimes keep us from performing our jobs and other duties. Recently, however, a study carried out by the Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute in Colorado has demonstrated some positive findings. Reflexology was administered to a study group over 18 weeks. Results indicate that reflexology may hold promise as a treatment for the management of lower back pain.

Unlike conventional medicine, reflexology is an all-around natural therapy that has little or no side effects. Not only can it help in relieving uncomfortable symptoms of back pain, but it doubles as a great stress reliever as well.

Interested in learning more about these or other massage treatments? Let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, holistic health, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore courses near you.

Note: This article is designed for education purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice.

The CollegeBound Network

All Rights Reserved

Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for , in association with CollegeSurfing.com - Educational Resources for , , and other healing arts programs.