fMRI Research Project: Exploring Reflexology’s Impact within the Brain

It never ceases to amaze me the calming, restorative effects of reflexology — and now, new scientific research is helping to shed light on why these benefits occur.

Recent findings from a groundbreaking pilot study offer compelling evidence that reflexology may have measurable effects on the brain. Conducted at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Magnetic Resonance Research in collaboration with the University of New Mexico, this study used functional MRI (fMRI) scans to observe how the brain responds to reflexology in real time.

As reflexology was applied to the feet of both healthy individuals and stroke patients, researchers observed something remarkable: areas of the brain beyond those related to the foot were activated. These changes in brain activity — described by the lead researchers as “unexpected” and “noteworthy” — point to reflexology’s broader impact on physical and mental wellness.

For those of us practicing and receiving reflexology, this research feels both affirming and exciting. It offers scientific validation for the whole-body benefits many of us have long experienced through this gentle, holistic therapy.

The study, titled Neural Pathways of Applied Reflexology, is still ongoing, with over 80,000 brain images being carefully analysed. The techniques used in the study were developed by Barbara and Kevin Kunz, pioneers in the field, who first observed responses in clients with spinal cord injuries and strokes as far back as the 1980s.

While the study involved a small group — four healthy participants and four stroke patients — its findings support earlier research showing that stimulating specific reflex points on the feet can influence not only the corresponding physical regions but also emotional and cognitive functions.

Perhaps most heartening is the outpouring of global support for this work. Reflexologists and supporters from 94 countries have helped fund the research, reflecting a deep shared belief in the healing potential of this modality.

At Suaimhneas, “suaimhneas” — the Irish word for peace — is at the heart of what we offer. Studies like this remind us that peace and healing are not just felt in the body, but also measurable in the mind. And that’s something worth celebrating.

If you’d like to read more about the research, you can explore the full findings here