Ancient Roots of Reflexology
Reflexology traces back over 4000 years. Egyptian thomb paintings show foot massage practices, and similar traditions existed in China, India and Native America.
Egypt (c. 2,500 BCE)
The earliest known record of reflexology - like therapy comes from an Egyptian tomb at Saqqara.
A painted wall carving in the Tomb of Ankhmahor (also known as the “Physician’s Tomb”) shows practitioners working on the hands and feet of their patients.
Hieroglyphics suggest that treatments were used to ease discomfort and promote healing. Translation of the hieroglyphics: 'Do not let it be painful, says one of the patients. I do as you please, an attendant replies.'
​
​
China & India
Around the same period, traditional Chinese medicine documented pressure therapies on the feet and hands to balance the body’s vital energy (qi).
In India, similar techniques were integrated into Ayurvedic healing to stimulate energy pathways.
From Ancient Practices to Modern Science
Dr. William H. Fitzgerald (1872–1942)
Often called the “father of modern reflexology,” Fitzgerald was an American ear, nose, and throat specialist.
In the early 1900s, he developed Zone Therapy, dividing the body's energy flow into ten vertical zones (similar manner to the way in which meridians used in Acupuncture, Acupressure and Shiatsu) and discovering that applying pressure to specific areas of the feet, hands, and ears could reduce pain in corresponding body parts.
Dr. Edwin F. Bowers (1871–1932)
A medical writer who helped publicize Fitzgerald’s discoveries, co-authoring early books on Zone Therapy.
Eunice Ingham (1889–1974)
Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist, is often called 'The Mother of Modern Reflexology' .
Building on Fitzgerald’s work, she carefully studied and charted detailed reflex points on the feet, publishing Stories the Feet Can Tell (1938).
Ingham’s method spread internationally and remains the foundation for most modern reflexology techniques.
Doreen Bayly (1900–1980)
A British student of Ingham who introduced reflexology to the UK in the 1960s, establishing the Bayly School of Reflexology and helping the practice gain professional recognition.
Reflexology Today
Thanks to these pioneers, reflexology is now practiced worldwide as a complementary therapy, blending ancient wisdom with modern holistic health.While scientific research continues, millions of people use reflexology to relieve stress, promote relaxation, and support natural healing.