What to expect
At your first appointment I will take a medical history and we will discuss what you hope to gain from the session. I will explain what happens during the treatment so you feel prepared and at ease.
During the reflexology treatment you will be seated barefoot in a reclining Lafuma chair or a massage couch. I apply pressure to the reflex areas on your feet and note any signs of imbalance. Everyone responds differently but most people have a feeling of relaxation and improved sense of wellbeing afterwards. Many clients often drift off to sleep which is quite normal. Some areas of the foot may feel tender when touched but this usually stops as soon as the pressure is released.
Before we start the treatment I offer a herbal tea infusion designed especially to help you feel nurtured and relaxed. There are no contraindications (risks) involved with the teas I offer, however you are not obligated to accept this as part of the treatment.
If you are receiving an Indian Head massage you may wish to remove or loosen your clothing so that I can reach your shoulders and neck area with the oils.
Contraindications
If you are concerned with any health conditions that may compromise a reflexology or Indian Head Massage treatment, I am happy to discuss this before you make an appointment. In some instances it may be possible to create a bespoke treatment by avoiding certain reflex points.
While reflexology is an extremely safe healing practice, it is important to be aware of a few contraindications or times when reflexology might not be a wise choice. These contraindications include:
Foot injuries
Patients with foot fractures, unhealed wounds, or active gout in the foot should avoid reflexology. Patients with osteoarthritis that impacts the foot or ankle, or those with vascular disease of the legs or feet, should consult with their doctor prior to beginning reflexology on the feet. You can, however, still get reflexology treatment on your hands so please discuss this with me prior to an appointment.
Blood clotting issues
Clients who report current thrombosis or DVT embolism (which is an obstruction of the pulmonary artery by blood clots or embolus) or who are on prescribed blood thinning medication, should not receive reflexology therapy. Since reflexology improves circulation, it could potentially cause a clot to move towards the heart or brain.
Severe Cellulitis
Only in severe cases is foot reflexology not advisable due to any potential pain experienced by the receiver. Hand reflexology may be more desireable to the receiver and perfectly safe.
Drugs or Alcohol abuse
There may be the risk of severe reactions or a healing response after treatment. Alcoholic seizure may also occur.
Open wounds
I will stay away from open wounds, verrucas or blisters and ask that you place an elastoplast on the area before the treatment.
Contagious or notifiable diseases
If the receiver has any contagious or cross-infectious condition I will not be able to provide a treatment.
For your reassurance, I have full indemnity insurance with an approved insurance provider, Alan Boswell Insurance Group.
Please note that if you are on medication or attending your doctor for any condition, the doctor's consent may be needed before you receive reflexology. Please inform them that I am a registered practitioner with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council which recognises the natural benefits of reflexology as a complementary therapy.
GDPR
No information collected during a treatment and medical history will be shared with any third parties without your specific written consent.
If you wish to see a copy of the AOR's GDPR policy this can be provided upon request.
