How does it work?
No one is really sure. One theory is that there are more than 7000 nerve
endings on the feet and the treatment breaks down the body’s accumulated waste
products.
Practitioners believe that 'energy
channels' connect the feet with specific
parts of the body, and that health problems stem from blockages in these
energy channels. The purpose of the massage is to unblock the channels to
restart the flow of energy so that natural healing, without the use of
surgery or drugs, can occur.
There are reflexes in the feet for
all parts of the body. They are found mainly on the soles of the feet, but also on the top
and sides. For example, the big toes represent the head and the brain; the little toes the
sinuses.
Are there side effects?
During a session there can be some
tenderness, tingling, feelings of heat or cold.
But these sensations quickly pass and most people feel very relaxed.
Is it suitable for everyone?
Reflexology is not suitable
immediately after surgery or early pregnancy. Consult your doctor first if you are on any
regular drug treatment, suffer from epilepsy or gallstones - or if you have any serious
medical condition.
How do I find a practitioner?
The Association of Reflexologists has
a website: www.aor.org.uk which can supply local
practitioners. Costs per session are in the region
of £30 for three-quarters of an hour. Once-monthly
sessions are often recommended for chronic conditions, depending on severity.
Loulou Brown went to the Vitality exhibition at
Olympia in London, and received a reflexology session, courtesy of the makers of Compeed plasters. Here, she
shares her experience:
‘I lay on a couch, having taken off my
shoes and socks and had talcum power applied to my feet. Both feet were given a thorough
massage, with particular attention being given to the toes. The massage was firm, and I
twice felt quite a sharp pain on the toes that were being massaged - like a fingernail
piercing the skin.
This, I was told, was because there
were parts of my body that were out of balance The pain only lasted for about five
seconds, however, and after about ten minutes I began to feel quite relaxed - even though
there were streams of people passing by the Compeed stand all the time. Some stopped to
stare at me and my feet being massaged.
 The session lasted for about 20 minutes. When it was finished
I definitely felt less tired and as though I had more energy. Interestingly enough, I had
been having problems sleeping, but that night I slept like a log, without taking anything
to help me sleep.’
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