Podiatric Reflexology

What is Reflexology?

The science that deals with the principle that there are reflex points on the hands and feet which correspond to all parts of the body’s glands, organs and structures.

What are the benefits?

We have four main areas to look at:

To increase blood and lymph flow.
To relieve stress and tension.
To promote the unblocking of nerve impulses.
To help the body maintain a state of balance.

How many treatments are needed?

In this stressed world of ours ideally the therapist would like to recommend six to eight treatments. However it is believed that one treatment can not only be beneficial but financially realistic, especially when not dealing with a specific problem. The number of treatments and duration of each will depend on a number of factors.

Does the chronic condition and the acute condition react to the same number of treatments?

No. The chronic condition will usually need more treatments before there are noticeable signs of improvements. The acute condition may require less than eight treatments while the chronic condition may require many more than eight.

How many treatments should I have in order to establish the effectiveness of Reflexology?

This is a difficult question to answer. However as a general guide it is best not to continue treatment after the third or fourth treatment if you are unable to report any reaction.

Does Reflexology hurt?

No. Reflexology should not hurt but some areas on the foot may feel tender or different.

What does it mean if I complain to the therapist of a bruising dull pain on the area being treated?

This reaction seems to be experienced by those with more chronic conditions. However the therapist should very quickly establish that there is no injury to the foot in that area.

What does it mean if I complain of a very sharp pain, a sticking pain or a cutting pain in the area being treatment?

This type of reaction tends to be felt by those suffering with an acute condition but as always, the therapist would ensure that there was no injury to the foot.

Reflexology - Aftercare advice

Following your treatment take care to :-
Avoid alcohol and smoking - do not smoke for 24 hours after treatment as treatments are detoxifying.
Drink plenty of water and avoid tea and coffee. This will assist the elimination of toxins.
Eat a light diet - fresh natural foods are advisable as processed foods add to the toxicity in the body

Caution

If you feel wobbly, vulnerable or light headed it is best not to drive straight after a treatment. Drink some water or a warm beverage (not tea, coffee or alcohol) and rest for a few minutes before you get in your car.

As your body eliminates toxins you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Headache
Nausea
Extreme tiredness
Increased activity of the bowels or of the bladder
Change in your sleep pattern
Emotional upsets

Can you remind me about the necessity for the consultation card?

To establish there are no contra indications to the treatment.
To assess the client’s physical and mental state.
To show a genuine interest.
To ensure that our therapy is holistic.
To ensure that we give the best possible treatment for each client.
To establish that Reflexology is the most suitable treatment.
To refer clients to a therapist with the appropriate skills or to a medically qualified practitioner