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Reflexology

Reflexology  is often used alongside conventional care to help support patients with a variety of conditions.

Reflexology

Reflexology

What is reflexology?

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medicine based on the principle that reflex points on the soles, tops, and sides of the feet correspond to different areas of the body.

Reflexology is based on similar principles to acupuncture and some types of massage – that our bodies are mapped by channels of energy, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”); we feel pain, or generally unwell, when the flow of that energy is blocked in some way. By putting pressure on one part of these channels, the reflexologist sends an impulse or message all the way along it, which unblocks it and encourages the energy to flow freely again.

This in turn brings us back into good health and a sense of balance and well-being, and stimulates our body’s own healing responses.

What is reflexology good for?

Many people go to see a reflexologist as they might go for a massage: to help with their general health, and to make them feel relaxed and calm. But because it is such a comprehensive treatment, reflexology can help you in many other ways, with anything from a trapped nerve to depression.

Reflexology is recommended by doctors for a variety of conditions, including:

  • back pain and muscle strain;
  • sports injuries;
  • infertility;
  • stress;
  • anxiety and depression;
  • sleep and eating disorders;
  • poor circulation;
  • irritable bowel syndrome;
  • migraine;
  • pre-menstrual tension;
  • symptoms of the menopause;
  • breathing difficulties such as asthma.

Precautions!

You should always let your therapist know:

  • of any medical conditions you have, and treatment or medication you are receiving;
  • if you are, or think you might be, pregnant;
  • if you have recently had an operation or surgery;
  • if you have had any injuries that might affect your treatment – such as a recently healed broken ankle.

 What to expect from reflexology!

Your therapist will start with a full consultation, asking various questions about your health and lifestyle, to ensure reflexology is right for you.

For the reflexology treatment itself you will remain fully clothed, simply removing your shoes and socks. You’ll be invited to relax on a reclining chair or treatment couch, or to put your feet up on a footstool. The therapist will gently cleanse your feet before applying a fine powder, cream of oil, to help provide a free-flowing treatment, and then start gently massaging and stretching your feet and ankles.

As the treatment progresses, a variety of different reflexology techniques will be used to ‘work’ the reflex points on each foot, including a caterpillar-like movement called ‘thumb walking’. The areas treated and pressure applied will be adapted to suit your individual needs.

Treatment generally lasts for 30 minutes to an hour. You will probably get a lot out of a single session but you may want to have several more.

Out of courtesy and kindness of course, it is a good idea to make sure that your feet are clean and fragrant!

Afterwards

You are likely to feel very relaxed after a session; you may feel like having a snooze or a long bath, and luxuriating in the feeling a bit longer. On the other hand, depending on your treatment, you may feel really energised.

Your reaction is not always predictable but the likelihood is that you’ll feel much better when you come out than you did when you went in. As with other treatments, it’s a good idea to arrange a session when there aren’t too many demands on you afterwards. It’s better to have a session when you have time off, or at the end of the day, if you can.

Reflexology is often used alongside conventional care in hospices, hospitals and other healthcare settings, to help support patients with a variety of conditions.

Treatment Pricing

At The Practice: £200.00

Booking Information

Appointments last approx
45-60 minutes

For same-day appointments please email office@myfamilyclinic.co.uk

Face to Face Appointments

Video Call Appointments