Reflexologists use hand, finger and thumb techniques including pressure techniques in order to systematically stimulate the reflex areas.
These pressure techniques stimulate the Central Nervous System (CNS) and cause the body to provide endorphins from the brain which naturally bring down stress levels and reduce the sensation of pain. This modality is extremely beneficial for a person with pain or chronic illness, or who has to cope with a highly stressed lifestyle.
The Therapeutic Reflexologist uses a protocol of specific finger and thumb pressure techniques on the feet, lower legs, hands, arms, face and ears.
During the treatment the patient may experience sensitivity in certain reflex areas and it may vary from treatment to treatment.
The therapeutic reflexologist usually completes the treatment by using gentle massage techniques which will leave the patient relaxed and soothed, thus enhancing the body’s capacity to utilise its natural healing potential.
There is a difference between a therapeutic reflexology treatment and gentle relaxing spa type of foot massage.
Your reflexologist will follow the process of consultation by asking general questions about your health, lifestyle and medical history; discuss the treatment plan; the expected benefits of the treatment; possible minor side effects, e.g. tiredness or headache, and options of alternative courses of action. This first visit could last about 15 minutes longer than subsequent treatments.
A reflexology session usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.
In cases, such as the very young, the elderly or particular illnesses, shorter treatments over shorter intervals, may be given to avoid over-stimulating reflex areas.
Generally, reflexology is known to be safe therapy and doesn’t cause many side effects and there is no minimum or maximum age limit.
Although reflexology treatment may not be capable of removing the causes of the illness it is known around the world that reflexology treatment complements other treatments when dealing with psychological symptoms and conditions such as anxiety, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, headaches, kidney function, multiple sclerosis, PMS, sinusitis, stroke, trauma etc.
Therapeutic Reflexology is not contra-indicated for any condition although caution is to be taken under the following circumstances: