The expression zone therapy is briefly described and a few theories concerning the mode of action are mentioned. Attempts are made to demonstrate one of these theories which suggests an effect via the hypophysis. In 16 patients in whom cholecystectomy was undertaken, the plasma cortisol concentrations were measured pre and post-operatively in order to illustrate whether stimulation of the so-called pituitary-adrenal zones in the feet resulted in alterations in the cortisol pattern in a situation with recognized raised hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal cortical activity. It did not prove possible to demonstrate any influence due to zone therapy on the plasma cortical response during surgical stress.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help

• PubMed
• PDF locator
• publisher