About Reflexology
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is based on the theory that different points, or reflexes on the feet correspond to the internal organs, bones and other structures of the body. By applying pressure to these reflexes it stimulates the body’s own healing processes and can aid relaxation, reduce stress and tension, improve circulation, increase vitality and help the body maintain overall health and wellbeing.
What is the difference between Reflexology at level 3 and Clinical Reflexology at level 5?
Most Reflexologists are trained to level 3, some courses will have an element of face to face training but the majority will have been provided via an online training course. Level 3 training enables the Reflexologist to work to a set protocol to bring about balance to the body and a feeling of well being.
Clinical Reflexology is an advanced practice. Clinical Reflexologists are trained to level 5 which is the equivalent of a foundation degree and have in depth training and knowledge in anatomy and physiology. Training is delivered in a face to face classroom environment with both practical and written assessments to ensure their competence.
Level 5 Clinical Reflexologists are trained to specialise in working with people with clinical conditions. Clinical Reflexology works to help ease symptoms and deliver treatment to directly impact those conditions. As such the client receives an individualised treatment package to meet their specific conditions, symptoms and needs.
The effects of reflexology are unique. Therefore, it is not possible to know in advance how you will react to a treatment. Generally clients feel very relaxed, less stressed, sleep better and describe improved mood and general well-being which allows the body to engage more actively in its own healing response.
For specific conditions where by particular areas of the feet are worked to address specific symptoms, although we cannot cure conditions, the treatment intention is to bring about relief from the symptoms of these conditions.
Contraindications – Who cannot be treated with Reflexology?
There are specific conditions that are not suitable for reflexology. These include:
Any infectious diseases (due to the risk of infection to practitioner and cross-infection to other clients)
Any unstable heart condition. However, if your condition is stable and medication is not in the titration phase you can go ahead and have Reflexology.
Thrombosis/DVT. (Since Reflexology improves circulation, there is a risk it may shift the blood clot.)
Will I benefit from Clinical Reflexology?
The effects of reflexology are unique. Therefore, it is not possible to know in advance how you will react to a treatment. Clients often feel very relaxed, less stressed, sleep better and describe improved mood and general well-being which may bring about relief from a wide range of conditions.
What to expect from a Clinical Reflexology treatment?
At the initial treatment, a full consultation and medical history is taken followed by a full exploratory and investigatory treatment:
- You will be made comfortable on a clinic bed and may be raised up to allow the Reflexologist to gain good access to your feet.
- Your feet will be cleansed with a hygienic spritz and a balm applied to allow work to begin on the feet.
- The reflexologist will work between both feet, swapping between the left and right covering the various systems in sequence. We do this for two reasons –
1) To enable us to completely work the entirety of specific systems which are located across both feet
2) It ensures that if the session was interrupted for any reason you are not left with having had a full treatment on one foot and none the other, thereby avoiding the risk of leaving the clinic feeling unbalanced.
- A full investigatory treatment will be carried out, which covers all areas of the feet and therefore all areas and systems of the body. The reflexologist will work on your bare feet and use various techniques to apply varying pressure to the feet. This allows the Reflexologist to note any areas of congestion when working on the feet and note any reactions or tender areas that may have come to your attention.
- The first exploratory treatment can last up to 90 minutes.
- Following the exploratory treatment and informed by your own clinical goals, an individualised treatment plan will be developed for further treatments. This allows for focused treatment to be carried out but is also changed and updated according to your health and results. If anything else crops up for you, the plan can be adapted accordingly to meet your clinical needs.
What do I need to wear?
Simply wear something comfortable, without restrictions around the ankle so that access can be gained fully to the feet and ankles.
Clinical Reflexology is a complementary therapy and not a substitute for seeking medical advice via your General Practitioner or specialist.