Reflexology
Reflexology is a complementary (or alternative) therapy, based on the same principles as Chinese acupuncture. Pressure-point massage of the feet was used in China over 5.000 years ago, as well as by the Ancient Egyptians, Hopi tribes of North America and 16th century European medical practitioners.
Chartered physiotherapists have in-depth training in the skills of massage and manipulation and are therefore particularly suited to the skills and subtle approach of reflex therapy. The findings amongst chartered physiotherapists using the reflex therapy approach are that it appears to have an overall holistic benefit for the healing of the patient. The patient themselves report that they are highly satisfied with the effects of treatment.
The principle idea of reflexology is that the extremities have a topographic anatomical map providing a linkage from the extremity to the brain. As yet there is no randomised research attributed to this idea. However, Egyptian hieroglyphs do depict, and write of patient/therapist activity suggesting that touching the feet and hands will change the patient's health.
The holistic and in-depth nature of reflex therapy may also be attributed to the fact that the area which is stimulated during treatment is in direct relationship to those parts of the brain which control our emotional and physical responses. Reflex therapy is seen to enhance the health physically, mentally and emotionally both during and following a treatment with often lasting benefit.
With few exceptions there are almost no conditions in which reflex therapy cannot be useful. Whilst it may not always be able to 'cure', it can improve symptoms and general wellbeing.
Conditions which can be relieved by reflex therapy:
Acute conditions
Arthritic conditions - eg osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis
Chronic conditions
Immune deficiency disorders - eg chronic fatigue syndrome
Mental health - eg depression and SAD
Migraine and headaches
Muscle and joint disorders
Neurological conditions - eg cerebral palsy, parkinson's disease and stroke
Paediatrics
Sports injuries
Stress-related conditions
and many more.
The patient will be made comfortable and warm in a lying or half lying position and the therapist will apply gentle pressure to the reflexes of the feet or hands. The head can also be treated, often used in terminal care or with the seriously ill or stressed patient. During the treatment session, the therapist will monitor any response and adapt accordingly.
Your initial session will last 45 minutes and will cost £45. Further sessions will cost £35
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