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What can be expected from a therapeutic reflexology treatment?
The Therapeutic Reflexologist may treat or provide treatment for diagnosed disease, illness or deficiencies in humans or prevent such disease, illness or deficiencies in humans. It is not a medical treatment nor is it a practice of medicine.
First visit
The therapeutic reflexologist, at the first visit, will ask about medical history, general health, exercise regimen, nutrition and lifestyle.
The colour and condition of the feet are also noted before commencing treatment. This visit could last about 15 minutes longer than subsequent treatments.
In some cases the therapeutic reflexologist will give the patient a warm relaxing foot bath or do a biomechanical foot assessment. Thereafter various grips are used while finger, thumb and hand techniques are systematically applied on the reflex areas (usually of the feet) so as to promote the natural healing potential of the body.
Treatment
Treatment includes 'working' the entire area of both feet - and may also include the hands and/or ears. The treatment will generally last about 45 minutes for an average-sized foot. In some cases (such as the very young, the elderly or particular illnesses) shorter treatments over shorter intervals, may be given to avoid over-stimulating the body. When the effects of the treatment have been monitored, sessions can be extended to last between 45 and 60 minutes.
If the therapeutic reflexologist applies firm pressure technique, this will prevent a 'tickle' sensation. The treatment should not be painful nor cause discomfort, but should rather be calming and comforting.
During the session, different sensations may be experienced in certain reflex areas. There may be a sharp pain, or the feet may feel very sensitive. Sensitivity varies from person to person, and from treatment to treatment. The therapist will adjust the pressure to suit the patient - who should be asked to comment on the sensations that he/she experiences. Treatments are usually completed using gentle massage techniques which will leave the patient relaxed and soothed, thus enhancing the body’s capacity to utilize its natural healing potential.
Who can benefit from Reflexology treatments?
The following benefits or reactions may be derived from a therapeutic reflexology treatment:
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In some cases dizziness, nausea, tiredness or headaches may be experienced because of the body cleansing itself of toxin;
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sleep patterns can improve as a result of the relaxed state of the body;
skin tone and tissue texture may improve because of improved blood circulation;
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stimulation of lymph nodes, kidneys and colon reflexes leads to more effective elimination of toxins caused by pollutants, bad diet, stress, etc.;
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bodily functions are enhanced due to increase of oxygen levels and nutrient supply to every cell;
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reflexology, after surgery, plays an important role as it may help to prevent adhesions forming and aid the healing process.
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by reducing tension in the body the nervous system calms and functions more effectively in situations of stress and anxiety (frequently associated with modern illnesses);
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physical and emotional tensions, accompanying serious illnesses such as cancer and multiple sclerosis, are released and
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treatments and information are offered to encourage informed choices for healthier, more productive and balanced lives, thereby enhancing physical and emotional wellbeing.
Is therapeutic reflexology a safe treatment?
An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural therapy as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body. Be sure to give the reflexologist a complete and accurate health history. Although reflexology treatment in cases of terminal illness for example cancer, multiple sclerosis and Aids, may not be capable of removing the causes of the illness, it does help with pain relief and makes the patient more comfortable.
Reflexology may not be indicated in cases of:
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Tumors and metastases
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Deep vain Thromboses
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First trimester of pregnancy, where the patient has not been receiving regular reflexology treatments prior to conceiving.
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Broken/fractured bones (in the feet or ankles) while healing
Reflexology and care centres/community work
Therapeutic reflexologists work on a voluntary basis in public health centres. Treatments are currently being offered in the following facilities:
- The Burns Unit of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town;
- the Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg, HIV Clinic;
- Johannesburg General Hospital Paediatric Oncology Unit,
- Non-government organisations: community healthcare facilities such as hospices, old age and children’s homes, AIDS and crisis centres, and at some higher educational institutions and church organisations.
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