FAQS


Q. How does reflexology work?

A. Reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflexes on the feet and hands that correspond to all organs, glands and parts of the body. A reflexologist uses his or her fingers and thumbs to stimulate these reflexes, promoting balance and relaxation, and improving circulation. For more information see the About Reflexology page.

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Q. Is there any scientific basis to Reflexology?

In the 1890’s, knighted research scientist Dr. Henry Head proved the neurological relationship that exists between the skin and the internal organs. Nobel prize winner, Sir Charles Sherrington proved that the whole nervous system and body adjusts to a stimulus when it is applied to any part of the body. In Germany, Dr. Alfons Cornelius observed pressure to certain spots triggered muscle contractions, changes in blood pressure, variation in warmth and moisture in the body as well as directly affecting the “psychic processes” or mental state of the patient. Currently research studies to further validate reflexology are being conducted in many countries including Switzerland, Denmark, USA and Australia. In Japan and Denmark reflexology has been incorporated into the employee health programs of several large corporations saving each company thousands of dollars annually. The American Academy of Reflexology teamed up with Dr. Terry Oleson and conducted a study on the positive effects Reflexology has on PMS symptoms. This study was published in Obstetric & Gynaecology in December 1993. Over 300 Reflexology research studies on over 150 health challenges have been conducted around the world.

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Q. If I don't believe in reflexology, will it still be effective?

A. YES. Reflexology relieves stress and tension and deeply relaxes people independent of their beliefs about it. Many very sceptical people have become strong advocates for reflexology after experiencing it. It is also quite possible that your belief in its effectiveness will enhance its benefits. Try it with an open mind and find out for yourself how you respond to reflexology. Each person has his or her own unique response.

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Q. Does reflexology treat disease?

A. Reflexologists do not work with a treatment orientation; rather they are oriented to revitalizing the whole body and hence supporting the body in its own healing process. Frequently disease is alleviated or managed.

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Q. If reflexology does not treat disease, what can it do for me?

A. Reflexology is used primarily to relieve stress and tension and produce deep therapeutic relaxation. Medical doctors agree that over three quarters of our health problems can be linked to nervous and physical tension. By reducing stress and tension, reflexology improves blood and lymph circulation, strengthens the functioning of the immune system, improves assimilation of nutrition and elimination of toxins, and calms the nervous system. In these ways, reflexology facilitates the body's natural healing processes and thereby enhances the body's health and vitality.

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Q. Does reflexology diagnose?

A. NO. Reflexology identifies where stress and tension or an imbalance is located in the body. This can be a valuable assistance to the diagnosis process, but it is not sufficient by itself. If a reflexology recipient has identified other symptoms that coincide with the stress and tension identified by reflexology, and then they should consult a licensed health care provider such as a naturopathic doctor or a medical doctor for a diagnosis. If a reflexology recipient is not aware of any other symptoms that corroborate with the stress and tension identified by reflexology, then the person should recognize that the stress and tension will be alleviated to some degree by reflexology stimulation. Therefore, to some extent their stress is being taken care of. It is their choice whether to continue receiving reflexology in order to alleviate the stress and tension, and/or whether to seek out other therapies to assist. Reflexologists are not licensed health care providers and hence are legally not allowed to diagnose.

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Q. If I have a serious ailment, such as heart trouble, diabetes or cancer, can reflexology make my condition worse?

A. Absolutely not! Reflexology practised with common sense is completely safe. It simply relaxes the body, which allows it to function more effectively. The results can be amazing! If a licensed health care provider such as a medical or naturopathic doctor is managing your condition, it is important that you discuss the consequences of any therapy (including reflexology) with this person before you commence treatment. This is particularly appropriate if your condition involves an organ transplant, an implanted device (pacemaker), or, is acute.

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Q. Can reflexology do me any serious harm?

A. NO. Reflexology is essentially harmless. The therapeutic relaxation that reflexology produces facilitates the body's release of toxins. On very rare occasions this release of toxins may bring about perspiration, a nauseous feeling, a headache, or a bad taste in the mouth. These minor discomforts are evidence of the body's healing process, are very temporary and are not serious. Should you experience any discomfort after a reflexology session that is not temporary, then you should assume that its cause is independent of the reflexology and take the appropriate remedial actions. Most people enjoy pleasant relaxed and/or energized feelings after a reflexology session.

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Q. Who can benefit from reflexology?

A. Everyone can benefit from reflexology including children, the elderly, the sick and the healthy. Reflexology is completely non-invasive, pleasurable and relaxing.

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Q. Is reflexology safe for children and the elderly?

A. Yes. With young children and the elderly, a treatment is often shorter and pressure is lighter. Each client is assessed individually to establish the right degree of treatment.

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Q. Is reflexology safe for the terminally ill?

A. Yes. Reflexology can do no harm, only good. In fact it can be extremely helpful in relaxing the client and helping them to cope with the emotional side of their illness. Reflexology has also been known to assist with relieving pain. It may be appropriate to apply less pressure or shorten a treatment if the client is very unwell.

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Q. Is reflexology safe if I am pregnant?

A. Yes, but it is recommended that you avoid treatments during the first 12 weeks, when your body is adjusting to hormonal changes. This also applies to Indian head massage, Thai foot massage and Eastern facial massage. After 12 weeks, expectant mothers often find reflexology extremely helpful in coping with morning sickness, tiredness and common ailments associated with pregnancy.

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Q. Can I have reflexology if I am menstruating?

A. Yes, you can – and most likely you will benefit if you have painful periods, PMS or other menstrual problems.

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Q. What can I expect at a treatment?

A. On your first visit, we will begin with a consultation about your medical history, diet and lifestyle. We will discuss any presenting problems you have and how you would like to be helped. This information helps me get a picture of you and your individual needs. I will answer any questions you have and we will then proceed with the treatment.

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Q. How long does a treatment last?

A. The treatment itself takes approximately one hour. The initial consultation can take up to 25 minutes.

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Q. Is there an extra charge for the initial consultation?

A. No, this consultation is part of your individual treatment.

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Q. What will I feel during a treatment?

A. It depends on the person. Some common reactions are feeling sleepy, light-headed, tingling, all of which are normal and usually pass after the treatment. Rarely someone may feel an emotional release.

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Q. Is reflexology painful?

A. No - but it can be uncomfortable at times. If a reflex is out of balance or has an energy build-up, it might be tender and sore. Your reflexologist will take time to work this reflex until it becomes normalised. The reflexology routine includes lots of very pleasant, relaxing techniques that far outweigh any discomfort! However, if at any time you find the treatment painful, please tell your Practitioner, as it is important that they work within your comfort-zone.

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Q. If it hurts, does it mean there is something wrong?

A. Not always – as some reflexes are naturally tender. However, painful reflexes can also indicate a problem in that area, depleted circulation, sluggishness, congestion, weakness or a past trauma or operation.

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Q. Does reflexology tickle?

A. No, not at all. The reflexologist uses quite a firm pressure to support and work on your feet.

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Q. How will I feel after a treatment?

A. Most people feel very relaxed – others may feel sleepy, tired or light-headed for a while. Occasionally if you were suffering with a painful condition there may be a temporary flare-up of symptoms – this is an indication that the circulation in the area has improved and that the body is responding to the treatment. The discomfort usually only lasts a few hours, then you will feel better.

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Q. Is there any food or drink I should avoid after a treatment?

A. It is advisable not to have a heavy or spicy meal both prior to and after treatment. After treatment make sure you drink plenty of water (this helps the body to eliminate toxins and is very important), and try to relax rather than dash off to exercise enthusiastically! In addition, try not to drink too much alcohol (you needn’t abstain totally!), as this will interfere with the detoxification process.

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Q. How often should I have reflexology?

Even though reflexology feels so wonderful you'd like to have it done everyday, it is always best not to have a full reflexology session more than once every 3 or 4 days. If you have a health condition that is being assisted with reflexology you would probably start with a session once every 3 or 4 days then as your condition improves you would taper your sessions down as you feel you need to. If you are a relatively healthy person and you're using reflexology to maintain your health then you may only want a session once every couple of weeks or once a month. No one knows you, your body and how you feel better than you do, so you should be the judge of what you think would be the most beneficial to your health maintenance program.
Other clients have reflexology on an ad hoc basis, as a treat.
If you have an acute condition, it is advised that you have reflexology as frequently as possible until your symptoms are alleviated, then revert to a more regular routine.
The ideal frequency of treatment will depend on the individual client's needs. But as a general rule I would recommend having between six and ten weekly treatments, followed by booster sessions every fortnight, then once a month, and so on.

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Q. How much will a treatment cost?

A. I like to keep my charges to a level that makes them accessible to all who need my help. A full one hour treatment costs £25. click here to go to Prices/Packages & Special Offers. And remember, your initial consultation is free.

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Q. Does my private health insurance cover reflexology?

A. Your insurance may or may not cover reflexology. You will need to check with your provider to find out what they cover and what your yearly maximums might be. Some insurance covers massage to a maximum yearly and may allow reflexology sessions to be covered under this benefit. It would also be necessary to find out what documentation might be required from your reflexologist as proof of qualification.

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Q. Do Reflexologists have to be registered in order to practice?

A. No. Currently in the UK, there is no regulation of Reflexologists. This means that the standard of work varies considerably. I recommend that you choose a practitioner who holds the letters MAR (Member of the Association of Reflexologists) or MIFR (Member of the International Federation of Reflexologists). If they are a Member of the Association of Reflexologists, they will have met a strict entry criteria and will be insured and hold a First Aid Certificate. They will also be committed to regular post-graduate training to keep their skills up to date.

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Q. How do I know which reflexologist to choose?

A. You should seek a reflexologist who is a member of a reputable organisation such as the Association of Reflexologists. I am a fully qualified member of the Association.

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Q. Will a Reflexologist remove hard skin and cut my nails too?

A. No. Unless the Practitioner also holds a professional Chiropody qualification, they will not be permitted to carry out any such work.

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Q. How can I buy gift vouchers?

I know it's often hard to decide on the perfect gift, so a Reflexology Gift Voucher makes an ideal gift for Christmas, Birthdays, Mother’s (or Father’s!) Day, Anniversaries and many other special occasions.
Vouchers may be purchased for single treatments or for courses of treatment.
Vouchers are sent by first class post, for which there is no additional charge. They can be posted to yourself for you to give in person, or I can post them direct to your recipient with a message of your choice, whichever you prefer.

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Q. How can I get further information?

A. For advice, or to book an appointment, contact me on:
• 0791 757 2061
• If you have any specific questions not covered here or if you would like me to contact you please email me on cathryn.moulden@btinternet.com
• See Useful Links

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