I agree with Kathryn. It's not something you can put your finger on and say it helps one certain thing in your body. But, the bottom of your feet are where mounds of gunk are eliminated. That's why your feet stink!
Oil Swishing is the same way for me. I can't tell you why it works. I can only say that it works.
So, if you can draw toxins out of your feet the same way you draw toxins out when you cleanse your body....then, why not?
I am also like Kathryn in that I am not consistent using the foot pads. I have read posts on the old Dr. V. forum of people who have used the foot pads daily until all toxins were removed and the pads were clear. So, that tells me they work.