Autism, Reflexology, and Polyvagal Theory: New Perspectives on a Holistic Approach

AUTHORS: Esat Başaran, Pınar Başaran

Location: belgium & brussels capital university

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavioral patterns. Common symptoms observed in individuals with autism include difficulties in social relationships, emotional regulation problems, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. Currently, various approaches have been developed for the treatment or management of autism. Among these approaches, reflexology and therapies based on polyvagal theory stand out. Both methods aim to provide a holistic effect on the nervous system and focus on improving brain functions through the autonomic nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve.

In this article, we will examine the relationships between autism, reflexology, and polyvagal theory, presenting a discussion on how these therapeutic approaches can alleviate symptoms in individuals with autism.

Autism and Brain Structures: The Source of Social Difficulties

Although the neurobiological foundations of autism are not yet fully understood, it is known that there are differences in certain brain structures related to social interactions. Regions such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and anterior cingulate cortex play important roles in regulating social behaviors. Functional or structural differences in these areas in individuals with autism may contribute to difficulties in social communication.

At this point, the vagus nerve and the autonomic nervous system come into play. The vagus nerve is a crucial nerve that affects the brain’s functions related to social bonding and stress regulation. As the vagus nerve also influences heart rate, digestion, and stress responses, it plays a role in regulating social interactions as well. The frequent occurrence of social withdrawal and difficulties in emotional regulation seen in individuals with autism suggests the possibility of a disruption in the connection between the vagus nerve and the autonomic nervous system.

Polyvagal Theory: Rethinking the Autonomic Nervous System

The polyvagal theory, developed by Stephen Porges, is an approach that explains the effects of the autonomic nervous system on social behaviors and the capacity to cope with stress. According to this theory, the autonomic nervous system is divided into three main components: the ventral vagal complex, the sympathetic system, and the dorsal vagal complex. The ventral vagal complex, in particular, is associated with social interaction and a sense of safety. This system enables individuals to engage in social interactions more comfortably in secure environments, while the sympathetic system takes over during stressful situations.

In individuals with autism, the insufficient activation of the ventral vagal complex and the dominance of the sympathetic system are often observed. This can lead to difficulties in social interactions and increased levels of stress and anxiety. Therapies based on polyvagal theory aim to restore this balance by stimulating the vagus nerve.

Reflexology: Sending Messages from Nerve Endings to the Brain

Reflexology is a therapy method based on the idea that nerve endings terminate at specific points in the feet, hands, and ears. By applying manual pressure to these points, neural signals are sent to different areas of the body. Reflexology can affect both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, contributing to stress reduction and relaxation.

The connection between reflexology and polyvagal theory can be explained through the stimulation of the vagus nerve from specific areas of the feet. Particularly, applying pressure to the base of the big toe may activate the vagus nerve, improving functions such as social bonding and emotional regulation. In this way, reflexology can enhance its effect on the nervous system in conjunction with polyvagal theory.

Applications of Reflexology and Polyvagal Theory in Autism

The combined use of reflexology and therapies based on polyvagal theory in individuals with autism can have positive effects, particularly on emotional regulation and difficulties in social interactions. Reflexology applications targeting the vagus nerve can contribute to the development of new synaptic connections in the brain, supporting neuroplasticity. As a result, improvements in social skills and reductions in sensory sensitivities can be observed in individuals with autism.

Polyvagal reflex therapy, when applied in weekly sessions, can emerge as a significant complementary therapy aimed at balancing the nervous system and enhancing social interaction capacity. When combined with reflexology, it can regulate both the vagus nerve and the autonomic nervous system, helping to alleviate symptoms.

Conclusion

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to difficulties in social interactions and emotional regulation. Polyvagal theory and reflexology offer promising approaches for alleviating these symptoms by intervening in the autonomic nervous system and the vagus nerve. By stimulating the vagus nerve and rebalancing the nervous system, it may be possible to improve social skills and stress management in individuals with autism. However, these methods need to be supported by further scientific research and validated through larger-scale studies.

This article aims to provide a framework for how complementary therapies, such as reflexology and polyvagal theory, can be utilized in the management of autism.

1. Sources on Polyvagal Theory and Autism:

- Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. Norton & Company.

- This book explains the polyvagal theory developed by Stephen Porges in detail and explores the neurophysiological foundations of social interactions.

- Porges, S. W. (2003). The Polyvagal Theory: Phylogenetic Substrates of a Social Nervous System. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 42(2), 123-146.

- This article delves into the polyvagal theory, focusing on the role of social behaviors and the autonomic nervous system, offering key insights on how this system may function in individuals with autism.

- Dana, D. (2018). The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy: Engaging the Rhythm of Regulation. Norton & Company.

- Discusses the application of polyvagal theory in therapy, and its effects on emotional regulation and social behaviors.

### 2. Sources on Reflexology:

- Byers, A. P. (2001). Reflexology: The Definitive Practitioner's Manual. Element Books Ltd.

- This book offers a comprehensive guide to reflexology therapy, providing a general understanding of its effects on the nervous system.

- Dougans, I. (2005). Complete Illustrated Guide to Reflexology. Element Books.

- A guide that explains reflexology techniques and their neural connections throughout the body.

- Kunz, K., & Kunz, B. (2008). Reflexology: Health at Your Fingertips. Dorling Kindersley.

- A reference book that covers the general principles and applications of reflexology.

### 3. Sources on the Relationship Between Autism and Reflexology:

- Kunz, K., & Kunz, B. (2004). Reflexology Research: An Annotated Bibliography. Reflexology Research Project.

- This work compiles various research studies on reflexology, discussing its effects on neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.

- Manella, C. (2006). Reflexology Research: The Effects of Reflexology on Children with Autism. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 12(3), 42-48.

- A research article that explores the effects of reflexology on children with autism, specifically examining its potential to address sensory sensitivities and social interactions.

### 4. General Sources on Autism:

- Grandin, T., & Panek, R. (2013). The Autistic Brain: Thinking Across the Spectrum. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

- This book addresses findings in neuroscience related to autism and discusses differences in brain structures in autistic individuals.

- Baron-Cohen, S. (2009). Autism: The Empathizing-Systemizing (E-S) Theory. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1156(1), 68-80.

- An important study on the neurobiological foundations of autism.

### 5. New Research on the Relationship Between Polyvagal Theory, Reflexology, and Autism:

- Porges, S. W., & Bazhenova, O. V. (2016). Polyvagal Theory and the Social Engagement System: Neurophysiological Mechanisms Underlying Autism Spectrum Disorders. In The Neuroscience of Autism Spectrum Disorders (pp. 79-87). Elsevier.

- A research chapter examining the relationship between polyvagal theory and autism spectrum disorders.

- Karol, J. (2009). Is Reflexology Effective for Pain and Stress? A Review of Research Studies. Holistic Nursing Practice, 23(1), 19-24.

- Reviews the effects of reflexology in managing stress and pain, and discusses its potential effects on autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

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