National UK Therapists Register

Members Article

Written By Michelle Rees.

YOUR HEALTH IN YOUR FEET

Reflexology, unlike conventional medicine, with its' holistic approach, doesn't simply ease a symptom, it treats the cause too - although it is not an alternative to your GP says Michelle Rees, M.I.C.H.T.

Reflexology is looked upon as a preventative therapy: If the body is in tune, it is less likely to break down in the first place and although Reflexology does not diagnose problems, it can find imbalances in the body and assist the body to repair itself as well as help to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium, particularly after, and occasionally during, illness, injury, disease and, quite commonly, when stressed. If vital energy pathways are blocked, our bodies are prevented from functioning effectively….and this is where Reflexology can assist.

WHY DID I CHOOSE REFLEXOLOGY? I'd gone along to my local college to find out about the massage courses they offered, (I'd had a hankering to learn it ever since having massages a number of times myself over many years), however, during an induction course for all the therapies they offered, I became fascinated with Reflexology. It had the massage element, albeit only on the feet and hands - an up side…not so physically demanding as massage itself, (seeing as I was now approaching my 50's!), but more importantly, Reflexology had that added appeal for me as it would blend in well with my desire to ease the discomfort of others and it would also encourage me to learn more about the body and its' workings as it had a definite medical aspect which also appealed to the 'nurse' within me.

SURPRISES IN STORE As a beginner, there were times when I'd surprise myself like the time I found hard lumps of skin on both feet, corresponding to the ear area, but the client had mentioned no discomfort or problems with her ears, however, upon further questioning, I discovered that she wore ear phones every day at her place of work and she was already aware that she was damaging her ears - but hadn't thought to mention it. The hard skin build up was an attempt by her body to protect itself from further damage. And, no matter how many times it happens, I still find it surprising but pleasing (noting Reflexology's' effectiveness) when a client points out that he's got a twinge in his eye when I'm working on the eye area etc.

WHAT CAN REFLEXOLOGY DO FOR YOU? Reflexology often detects tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet that are causing blockages in the corresponding organs and areas of the body. These can be released, via Reflexology, restoring the free flow of energy to the whole body, thus releasing tensions, aiding circulation and eliminating toxins. Treatments can also reduce anxiety, strengthen the immune system and relieve pain, as it promotes the release of endomorphines. The body is therefore encouraged, at its own pace, to self-heal, often after years of abuse.

PATIENT INFORMATION ON THE TREATMENT After doing a medical and lifestyle consultation, I'd then explain what is about to happen, then begin working usually on the clients' feet (or hands where needed), noting any problem areas. Occasionally, there is a fleeting discomfort in some parts of the foot, which indicates some congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. For the most part, the sensation is pleasant and soothing, relaxing the client while stimulating the body's' own healing mechanisms. Sometimes the can actually feel a twinge or sensation in the corresponding body part to that being worked on in the foot.

REACTIONS TO TREATMENT After treatments a clients' body could have none or many specific reactions - most often favourable, but occasionally not and often mixed. These reactions could decrease as the body becomes more balanced. All reactions are transient, however, no matter how insignificant they may feel to the client, they are, in fact, of great importance, as they show the Reflexologist how the clients' body is responding to treatments:

Some positive reactions: Feelings of well-being; great relaxation and peacefulness; ability to cope with stresses easier for some days following treatments; generally feeling happier: quicker physical and/or mental reactions; noticeably more energy; skin can feel softer, smoother or be fresher looking; less sleep may be required or better/longer and deeper sleep patterns develop.

Some negative reactions: Lethargy; nausea; excessive urination or bowel movements or profuse sweating - due to detoxification processes; more emotional and tearful or maybe unable to sleep so well due to extra brain activity etc.

RESEARCH: From recent medical research carried out on complementary therapies, Reflexology has shown promising results in the area of female fertility, depending on the cause of infertility being specifically non-physical. It was found that a number of practitioners noted that, after a course of treatments (average 6), female clients who were having problems conceiving often become pregnant shortly after the course.

CASE STUDY: One client, whom I shall refer to as 'Steve' was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 18 years ago, when he was in his 20s and is now, sadly, severely affected. He is mostly bed-ridden and at best wheelchair bound, having little use of his limbs and has some eyesight problems. Apart from common bedsores, Steve also suffers a lot of pain and discomfort throughout his body and joints and, due to lack of mobility, has numerous internal problems with his bladder, bowel, digestive system and his sinuses.

Apart from finding his weekly Reflexology treatments extremely relaxing and comforting, Steve reports that his nightly sleeping pattern has altered for the better; falling into a deeper than usual sleep one to two hours earlier than usual. In general, for several days after treatment Steve feels more rested and relaxed than before. He has also noted that his bladder and bowels often seem a little better and his nasal congestion began easing from the first treatment. Overall, Steve finds the treatment beneficial and looks forward to his weekly sessions.

WHO CAN BENEFIT? Reflexology is suitable for all age groups and an increasing number of people are turning to it. Most people benefit from treatments, whether for simple relaxation from the everyday stresses or life, or bringing relief to a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. Regular treatments are recommended in order to help maintain health, well-being and equilibrium.

WHO CAN'T BE TREATED? There are various 'contra-indications' that may prevent a Reflexology treatment from taking place, some being: pregnancy (in the first trimester, or if there were previous pregnancy problems), cancer, depending on stage, as it can effect ongoing treatment, (however it is often recommended for terminally ill cancer sufferers), infectious and contagious illnesses, thrombosis, phlebitis, venous or lymphatic inflammations, psychosis, internal bleeding and in rare cases - a continued extreme negative reaction to treatment.

Caution is also occasionally advised if a client is suffering from fever, foot conditions, heart conditions, menstruation (usually first few days of), osteoporosis, hypertension, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, if you are in the stages of pre or post surgery, terminal illness, or anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Reflexology, as mentioned, is not a replacement for your doctor, nor does it claim to diagnose problems. It is also recommended that you always ensure that your practitioner is professionally qualified and a member of a bona fide organisation before beginning a course of treatment.

Other research has stated that Reflexology treatments given daily for up to 12 weeks to babies up to 3 years old suffering with Asthma resulted in 100% cure rate.

Michelle Rees, M.I.C.H.T. can be contacted on 020 8262 1173, or at: reflexologyfirst@aol.com