Treatments

Reflexology

Reflexology originated in China about five thousand years ago and was also used by ancient Egyptians.

Reflexology is a technique of diagnosis and treatment in which certain areas of the body are massaged to alleviate pain or other symptoms in the organs of the body. Practitioners of reflexology tend to concentrate primarily on the feet.

Reflexology works on the principle that the body is divided into ten zones that run lengthwise from head to toe, where the reflex areas for all the organs, glands and body parts are found. Energy runs through these zones. Reflexologists believe that if this constant flow of energy is impeded by a blockage or congestion, illness sets in.

A reflexologist, by using constant, rhythmic pressure on the reflexes of the patient's feet, breaks down the blockage, allowing the return of free flowing energy and deep relaxation to occur, thus enabling the body's own healing mechanisms to take effect.

The uses of reflexology are numerous, and it is especially affective for relief of pain (back pain, headaches and toothache), treatment of digestive disorders, stress and tension, colds and influenza, asthma, arthritis etc.

It is also possible to predict a potential illness and either give preventative therapy or suggest that specialist advice be sought. The massaging action of reflexology creates a soothing effect that enhances blood flow, to the overall benefit of the whole body, Reflexology, however, cannot be used to treat conditions that require surgery.

There are certain conditions for which reflexology is inappropriate, including diabetes, some heart disorders, osteoporosis, disorders of the thyroid gland, and phlebitis (inflammation of the veins). It may also not be suitable for pregnant women or anyone suffering from arthritis of the feet.