Foot reflexology point for the eyes

Foot Reflexology for Eye-Related Conditions
One of the most common complaints among the elderly is headaches, dizziness, eye socket pain, and deteriorating vision. While these symptoms may also occur in teenagers or working adults, treatment tends to be easier in those age groups due to the generally stronger condition of the cervical spine. Younger individuals are less likely to suffer from issues such as cervical spondylosis, herniated cervical discs compressing nerves, or osteoporosis.

In contrast, elderly individuals often present not only with dizziness and eye pain, but also with increased intraocular pressure, making it inappropriate to massage around the eye sockets. Additionally, those with osteoporosis require extra caution when applying pressure to the cervical spine, as excessive pressure could risk bone displacement or fractures. This limitation can reduce the effectiveness of direct therapeutic massage in certain areas.

Therefore, foot reflexology, especially stimulation of reflex points that correspond to the neck and head, offers a safer and more practical alternative for the elderly. One such point is Yongquan (KI1涌泉) – a key reflexology point on the sole of the foot.

How to Stimulate the Yongquan (KI1涌泉) Point
- Sit comfortably with your back supported.
- Bend one knee (whichever side is easier).
- Curl your toes downward—you’ll notice a depression in the center of the sole, near the front third of the foot. This is the Yongquan point.
- Use your thumb, knuckle, or a blunt-ended stick to apply circular pressure for about 5 minutes.
- Then, massage the entire sole using your thumbs, but with gentler pressure than used for the Yongquan point.

Alternative Method (For Limited Knee Mobility):
If the patient cannot bend their knee, they may stand near a support (such as a rail or wall) and place their foot on a small massage ball. Apply pressure to the Yongquan point by stepping on the ball.
A raised wooden platform or a reflexology mat with nodules can also be used to stimulate the area instead of manual pressure.


Benefits of the Yongquan (KI1涌泉) Point

The Yongquan point is located in a concave area of the sole and is known as the entry point of Kidney meridian energy (Qi), symbolizing the upward flow of energy like a fountain. Regular stimulation of this point can help alleviate: Headaches, Dizziness, Insomnia, Blurred vision, Sore throat, Hoarseness, Constipation, Difficult urination

By massaging this point and the surrounding foot area for 10 minutes a day, 5 days a week, noticeable improvements in dizziness, eye pain, and reduced vision may be observed within about a month.
However, if vision problems are severe or the patient has underlying chronic illnesses, it is highly recommended to consult a physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


References:
Gao Shihua, Jia Chunyu, Orthopedic Massage Center, Bayi Sanatorium, Xingcheng, Liaoning –
"Foot Reflexology Combined with Orthopedic Massage for Treating Glaucoma: A Case Study"
Acupuncture and Moxibustion – Volume 1,
Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, 2008

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Article by:

刘财蓬 中医师
TCM. Dr. Tanaporn Tanasrivanichchai (Liu Cai Peng)
Department of Orthopedics and Tuina