Research & Hope :: Reflexology

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a method of treating the whole person by massaging specific areas of the feet (and occasionally the hands). It is a variant of acupressure. It feels like a soothing foot massage but it can also relieve pain, rebalance the system and stimulate healing.

According to reflexology theory, pre-defined points and zones on the feet are connected to specific organs and glands via the nervous system. Using specialised massage techniques, the reflexologist applies controlled pressure to each foot. Problems in body parts are felt as crystals in corresponding points on the feet. Breaking up the crystals helps to shift blockages in the related organ or gland, balancing it and encouraging it to function correctly.

A reflexology map (sometimes on display in the therapist's office) shows which areas of the feet are linked to which organs. For example, the top section of the big toe corresponds to the head/brain; a specific section of the little toe is connected to the face/sinus; etc. The zones on each foot are similar but not always identical.

Alongside the nervous system, reflexology acknowledges other networks called zones, meridians and reflex points. These are skilfully manipulated using various massage techniques. Blockages in the body are thus gently shifted, encouraging the client's energy to flow more smoothly and healing and rebalancing to begin.

Performed correctly, reflexology alleviates stress, pain, chronic fatigue, and a plethora of other problems. It has been proven to help stroke survivors in the areas of movement, mental functioning and activities of daily living (ADLs). Conditions that respond well to reflexology include circulation issues (blood and lymph), infertility and sub-fertility, hormone imbalances, low energy, weakened immunity, migraine, back pain, arthritis, sports injuries, stress-related conditions, sleep problems and digestive disorders. It can also encourage the removal of toxins and impurities from the body.

Reflexology is a holistic therapy. The therapist works on the feet to restore homoeostasis (internal balance or equilibrium) to the whole person, not just to deal with the obvious symptoms.

It is widely used in conjunction with conventional medicine and is sometimes recommended by doctors, health insurance providers and other health care professionals as a supportive therapy, either alone or alongside their recommended treatment(s). Reflexology is not used to diagnose or treat particular conditions but it helps the body to start its own healing process.

Who is it suitable for?

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and stages of life. As it is a profoundly relaxing therapy, people sometimes keep it up after their specific condition has been addressed to maintain health and well-being.

What happens when I go for treatment?

Consultation

Your first reflexology treatment typically begins when your practitioner talks to you about your medical history, your past and present health concerns and your lifestyle. This consultation allows your therapist to tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

In some cases, it might be necessary to obtain your doctor's permission before treatment can begin.

All of the above will be discussed on a confidential basis with your chosen practitioner.

Reflexology treatment

A reflexology treatment lasts approximately 45-60 minutes. As your feet are being treated, you simply remove your shoes and socks. You will be invited to sit or lie on a comfortable treatment chair, couch or plinth.

Your reflexologist will use his or her hands to apply precise pressure to your feet, taking your whole system into account but concentrating on areas relevant to your specific complaints.

Following treatment, any significant findings will be discussed with you. As the effects of reflexology are cumulative, it can be beneficial to continue with regular treatments.

How will I feel after a reflexology session?

In order to gain maximum benefit from your session, try to rest afterwards. Relaxing helps to boost your body's natural healing abilities. Increasing your water intake can also help to flush toxins out of your system and aid the healing process.

Listen to your body. After one or two sessions it might start to respond in a definite way. Some people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; others report feeling tired, nauseous or tearful. Uncomfortable feelings are transitory and part of the healing process.

It is vital to offer feedback to your reflexologist. Feedback tells your therapist how your body is responding to treatment. This, in turn, helps him or her to design an ongoing treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Qualifications, professional bodies and insurance coverage

It is important that your practitioner be fully qualified (e.g. by ITEC) and registered with a professional body, such as the Irish Reflexologists' Institute Ltd (IRIL) and/or the Association of Reflexologists (AOR).

Membership of a professional body ensures that the reflexologist is qualified. It also provides a professional framework, ongoing professional development, and a code of ethics for practitioners.

To be registered with insurance companies in Ireland and other countries a practitioner must be a member of a recognised professional body.

Cost of treatment

The cost of treatment varies widely, e.g. some reflexologists charge €30 per session, while others charge €60. Bear in mind that a more expensive practitioner might be qualified in other areas too (e.g. psychotherapy, nutrition, etc.) so do your homework and, if possible, ask for recommendations from people whose opinions you trust.