FAQ’s

How does reflexology work?

One theory of how reflexology works is that it works with the Central Nervous System (CNS). This is built on the research Sir Henry Head and Sir Charles Sherrington did in the 1890’s.  These  two highly regarded, well published Neurologists, showed that a neurological relationship is evident between the skin and internal organs, and that the nervous system adjusts to stimulus.

If working with this theory, the pressure Reflexologists apply to feet or hands sends calming messages from these extremities/ from the peripheral nerves to the CNS.  This then signals the body to change its stress levels, which brings about enhancement of relaxation and allows internal organs and their systems to enjoy increased blood supply. Increased blood supply brings more oxygen and nutrients to cells and promotes waste disposal, basically helping to gain optimum functioning of the Circulatory, respiratory, lymphatic/immune, endocrine & neurological systems of the body.

Another theory to explain how reflexology is good for pain relief is called ‘The Gate Control Theory’ The central idea of this theory is that in the spinal cord there are neural mechanisms which can open and close like a gate; thus preventing or allowing pain messages to the brain.

Are the categories broadly considered to open or close these gates, thus increasing or decreasing pain.

So for example, within the ‘Physical Factors’: counterstimulation helps close the gates.  So reflexology, being the calming treatment that it is, works well in blocking the pain signals to the brain.

Again these are all factors that reflexology promotes.

 

What is Zone Therapy?

Reflexology also works with the findings of a throat and nose surgeon called Dr. William Fitzgerald.   He researched a Chinese method where if pressure and massage was applied in a certain area it had a definite effect in bringing normal functioning in all parts of what he termed the ‘zone’.  He did extensive testing and developed a map dividing the body into 10 longitudinal zones; the midline of the body being ‘Zero’ and 5 zones either side.  Within reflexology treatments we work with these zones

 

What format does a treatment take?

In your first session a thorough consultation will take place before the treatment. The session will be around 1 ½ hours.  The consultation gives me an insight into your medical history, any problems or health issues you may have and to draw up a program of treatments if required.

Once the consultation is complete, comes the nice bit, a 45-50 min treatment.
Other techniques may be employed if I think appropriate, such as: Vertical treatments and chakra balancing.

 

How much will a session cost?

The first session costs £45 for a 1 ½ hour session
Following sessions £35 – 1 hour

If I am visiting you in the comfort of your own home, cost for travel expenses may be added depending on location, please call for details.

Treatments available at the Oldfield Osteopathic Clinic in Bath on Tuesday afternoons and evenings, please call for appointments.

 

How many sessions will I need?

What I would really like to get across here is that I believe that reflexology promotes good health.  It is a holistic treatment, so treats mind, body and soul. 
Many peoples conditions have taken a long time to present themselves in recognisable symptoms.  Therefore are unlikely to disappear after 1 treatment of whatever therapy the individual chooses.

The IFR (International Federation of Reflexologists) (Link to links page)suggests a course of 6 weekly treatments, followed by 2 treatments a month and then on a monthly basis.  This is by no means a hard and fast rule.

 

Who can benefit?

Reflexology is a great treatment for all ages male or female. I have treated the whole spectrum from babies to twilight years.

 

Will a treatment hurt or tickle?

A treatment should never hurt, sometimes areas of congestion may be sensitive, but not painful.  A good Reflexologists is always very aware of the client.  And will check the pressure is correct for the individual.

I’ve yet to treat anyone that found Reflexology ticklish, your feet are held firmly and even people that have warned me beforehand that they are ticklish have not found  it so.

Reflexology testimonial

Reflexology helps to release toxins in the system, so after a treatment I always advise that you drink plenty of water, normally a glass before you have left the couch or chair! 

 

Does a Reflexologist diagnose or cure conditions?
A Reflexologist does not diagnose as they are not qualified doctors, nor can we perscribe any drugs or claim to cure conditions.

 

How old is Reflexology?

In it’s present form, not very old, it was termed Reflexology by a lady called Eunice Ingham.  A qualified Physiotherapist in the US in the 1930’s who had taken an active part in the mapping of the feet with a Doctor, called Dr. William Fitzgerald.  However the roots of reflexology culminate from around the globe and healing through the hands and feet can be traced back to 2500BC in Ancient Egypt.


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