The Chapman reflex points are “gangliform contractions” in the deeper layers of the fascia. They can be described as small fascial tissue changes.

Their topographical location is relatively constant. They are associated with the internal organs.

Their location in and association with an organ are reproducible. Their existence has been substantiated by the empirical work of Chapman and Owens.

The anterior reflex points are located in the intercostal spaces near the sternum. Here, we find the typical “gan-gliform contractions”: they are about half as big as an air-gun pellet or roughly the size of a bean.

The reflex points in the pelvic region can also be similarly shaped, although some are stringlike formations or unformed dispersions.

The posterior reflex points are localized along the spinal column between the spinous processes and the ends of the transverse processes. It is rare for them to assume the form of a “gangliform contraction”; they feel more edematous and transmit a stringlike palpatory sensation in deeper layers than the anterior points.

Organs have both anterior and posterior reflex points. In some cases, reflex points for an organ are found bilaterally.

Make contact with the reflex point. For this purpose, very gently place a finger on the point and press only lightly. Reflex points are often very sensitive, so it is imperative to proceed with caution.

The finger remains on the point and treatment is by gentle rotations.

The anterior points are treated first, then the posterior points. Continue with the treatment until you have normalized the sensitivity or consistency of the point.

To conclude, check the anterior points once more. If you fail to notice any change, it is possible that the organ pathology is too great to be influenced reflexively in the short term, or other dysfunctions are present that must be treated first.

The reflex points of Chapman first of all present a diagnostic tool. To explain their operating principle, one theory states that they affect the movement of lymphatic fluid.

In addition, they are said to affect the internal organs via the vegetative nervous system.