It needn’t hurt, but there may be tender spots indicating that the corresponding area of the body is out of balance. I work up to the pain threshold and not beyond it otherwise the pain might create muscular tension.

For those of you with ticklish feet, a firmer pressure is used and slower movements. It only takes a minute or so to get used to it.

For our first session, the treatment will be explained in more detail and a medical history taken. Reflexology is given with cream or powder and may be received either lying down or sitting up. You can just relax and let go.

People respond very differently to reflexology although most feel very relaxed, sleep well and feel centred with an increase in energy levels the next day. The first reaction may be an increase or lower of the initial symptoms, therefore it is best to plan a quiet evening, where possible, to allow the effects to settle in to your system. Reflexology works by sorting out minor problems at their source rather than sticking a plaster over the symptoms.

The synergy of reflexology and movement strengthens the therapeutic benefits of each for optimal results.

Let's look at dysmenorrhea for example (painful menstrual periods). Recent studies have found that people suffering with primary dysmenorrhea (i.e not linked with other body pathologies like endometriosis), also experience decreased blood flow to their uterus and main arteries.

We would use reflexology to work on releasing tension around the pelvis area, and stimulating blood flow and nerve response. We would then use local musculoskeletal movement influence vasodilation and blood flow to these areas.

This will depend on your specific reason for treatment. Ideally weekly for a few weeks, then reduced to a maintenance programme. Practise has shown that the more frequently it is received, the faster the results. Reflexology is about staying well rather than attempting to repair a broken part!

After each treatment I will teach you some points of pressure to apply on your hands to continue the work started during the treatment.

If you have any specific medical problems please inform me before you arrive for your first session

The Association of Reflexologists in UK (where I obtained my diploma) recommends that we do not work with the following:

A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Anything that increases the circulation may move a blood clot, e.g. a hot bath, running for a bus and as reflexology is believed to improve the circulation, it too may shift a clot. It is best not to take the risk.

During the first trimester of pregnancy or a history of unstable pregnancies. This is one of those situations where the Association of Reflexologists has recommended we don’t work in the event that a pregnancy spontaneously miscarries. Many of my clients come regularly for reflexology to balance their bodies in preparation for a healthy pregnancy.

Severe cellulitis (infection of the skin and the tissues beneath it)

Contagious or notifiable diseases e.g. measles, scarlet fever, whooping cough or glandular fever

Children respond well to reflexology and many love it. Sessions are shorter but no less effective and can help with minor ailments or sleep problems. It is easy to do and very powerful when done regularly; I will teach you some reflex points to work on, so you can do reflexology on your own child. If you suspect anything serious, you should take him/her to the doctor.

The Association of Reflexologists recommends I obtain a signed consent form for working with children under the age of 18. Those with parental responsibility can sign this.

You are required to accompany your child into the treatment area while he/she receives reflexology.

During the treatment, babies can be feed, can sleep or can be entertained with a book or story telling.

In many countries Reflexology today is used as a complement to many forms of standard medical treatment.

If you are interested in incorporating reflexology within your practice or would like further information on reflexology, how it could benefit your patients or theories on how it works, please get in touch.