Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a typical treatment?
At your first appointment, I will ask some questions about your medical history and general health. You will then relax on my reflexology couch while I carry out a treatment on your face, feet, or hands. I use all natural oils or waxes to aid the movement of my hands; I use gentle pressure to work on the reflex points in your feet, face, or hands.
Will it hurt?
The treatment should be relaxing, not uncomfortable, although the client may feel momentary tenderness or sensitivity on a specific point, which is an indication to the reflexologist that the point is ‘out of balance’ and needs a little extra attention to release the imbalance. Reflexology aims to produce a state of deep relaxation, helping to release tension, improve sleep, and increase your overall sense of well-being.
Will it tickle?
Although the treatment is gentle, it shouldn't feel ticklish.
What will I feel like after a treatment?
After a reflexology treatment, clients should feel relaxed, sleep well, and have an improved sense of well-being. Occasionally people can experience a ‘healing reaction’ as the body responds to the treatment; this can include tiredness, a headache, or going to the toilet more often. It is also possible that some symptoms may get slightly worse for a short while, but all these normal reactions should pass in 24-48 hours and are seen as part of the healing process. I recommend that you drink plenty of water, avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, and try to rest after a treatment to help your body flush out waste products and get the best from the treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
Most people feel that a course of 6-8 treatments is beneficial, particularly if you have a specific reason for seeking treatment, however, everyone is different and I will talk to you about what you hope to achieve so that we can work out what suits you best. After the initial course, regular sessions, such as monthly, help to maintain well-being.
Can you diagnose what is wrong with me?
No, reflexology is not a medical treatment and does not claim to diagnose or cure. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeing your Doctor or taking prescribed medication or medical advice.
Are there any contraindications?
- There are a few contraindications - contact me if you are unsure:
- Deep vein thrombosis or any form of blood clot
- Severe cellulitis is contraindicated for foot reflexology
- Contagious disease or infection (including active cold sores for facial reflexology)
- For facial reflexology, a client who has had Botox or facial fillers will need to wait at least a month before treatment. A client who has had facial surgery will need to wait at least 3 months. You'll need to leave up to 3 weeks after dental work
- Imminent medical procedures or tests (depending on the type of test being carried out)
- Pregnancy: although many reflexologists treat throughout pregnancy, and it is considered safe to do so if there are no complications, I prefer to wait until 36 weeks before giving a treatment. I can suggest an alternative reflexologist who is fertility and maternity trained
- Clients under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Please note: whilst reflexology can work safely for most medical conditions, I still recommend that you advise your GP or medical practitioner if you are considering using reflexology alongside medical care. In a few cases, it may be necessary for you to seek approval from your Doctor before your treatment. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeing your Doctor or taking prescribed medication or medical advice.
Good Practice Policy
The PDF document below contains my Good Practice Policy as of April 2024.
