Reflexology Info

Disorders
The skin problems that a reflexologist may come into contact with include: eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, seborrhoea, shingles, erythema and ringworm.

Eczema
The word ‘eczema’ is taken from the Greek Ek Zeein, meaning to boil, seethe, or anything thrown off or out by an internal reaction. All of these definitions imply excess heat or excess turmoil within. Eczema and many other skin disorders often manifest because of poor function and activity in the internal organs. Any malfunction within is often displayed by the large amounts of toxic waste that the skin will try to eliminate when it cannot be excreted by other means. As a result of an imbalance, we may see a variety of skin disorders ranging from occasional pimples or pustules to chronic eczema. Eczema is a disorder that is often exacerbated by stress-related problems. In many cases it is just another attempt by the body to throw off the accumulated toxins from the system, which have amassed owing to the changes in the internal environment, passing these out through the skin. We know that stress can play a large part in these many skin diseases because stress can inhibit many functions of the body. A reflexologist sees these disorders as neither solely allergic in origin nor mainly as an inherited tendency, as these conditions have so many variable causes in the way they often appear and a proficient practitioner will embrace the total holistic concept.
According to TCM theory, the skin is related to the lungs, and it is amazing to see how many sufferers of eczema also have asthma or breathing problems. Stimulation to the adrenal glands reflex point would help release powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which will calm the most persistent itching, relieve any tendency to wheeziness, help the bronchiolus to relax by opening up the air passageways, and get rid of congestion and any tendency to breathlessness, calm the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx and aid the elimination of mucus.

Constipation
Constipation is another well-known problem that may cause skin eruptions. If the bowels do not eliminate in the correct manner some toxic waste is released through the skin in the form of minor eruptions. A malfunction of the hormones or the sebaceous glands can cause acne. Autoimmune disorders may affect the skin, as in the case of lupus erythematosus. In these instances we see the skin acting as a gateway through which the body eliminates lots of waste products. Many internal disorders resulting in skin eruptions are often brought about or exacerbated by incorrect eating habits or allergies to certain foods. If foods contain additives, these can often be the underlying culprits. So we see that skin disorders can be exacerbated by incorrect eating habits which cause an internal imbalance.

Dermatitis
The skin is very susceptible to outside influences; it may come into contact with many irritating substances, such as household products that may contain harsh chemicals, often causing dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). In panic, patients often apply substances or salves to the skin and this may force the problem deeper. It is imperative that the offending substance is found so that it can be tackled at its source.

Analysis and treatment
Skin assessment is one of our foremost tasks when we first apply our skills during foot or hand analysis. We need to check for any abnormality such as: skin colour, pallor or cyanosis, skin texture, skin temperature and humidity. During the normal ageing process the skin becomes thinner and loses some of its suppleness but it is necessary to examine the elasticity of the skin. This needs to be observed closely to see if there is a condition of anhidrosis which may be due to poor peripheral circulation. One of the main aggravations we often find with the skin is a fissure or slight defect in the skin of which the patient is often unaware. This could prove to be a site for entry of bacteria which can be exchanged quite easily by personal contact or touch. It is of the utmost importance that the practitioner ensures the highest standards of hygiene when handling any area that has a break in it to prevent infection or cross infection A reflexology practitioner must adopt best and safe practice at all times. Also, it is crucial to note if there are any signs of circulatory problems such as swelling, blanching, varicose eczema or any other pigmentation that may be present. If there is any severe skin problem on the hands or feet we first have to establish if it may be an allergic disorder, such as contact dermatitis, which may be caused by a multitude of substances to which the skin is sensitive. Even sweaty feet can release chemicals from dyes in shoes or by a reaction to washing powders, when traces may be left in footwear. These skin eruptions can vary from slight redness to severe inflammation It is so much better for the patient to try reflexology first, prior to the use of any prescribed corticosteroid creams. Reflexology improves the general elasticity of the skin because it stimulates the whole blood transport system, oxygen, nutrients and other necessary chemical messengers, such as hormones, overall circulation improves which then improves the general tone and quality of the skin.
We must also inspect nails for fungi or viral infections. These can easily be transmitted by touch and it is imperative that the practitioner safeguards themselves from cross infection. The most common examples are caused by the tinea group, which include tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) and tinea unguium (ringworm of the nails). These may be caused by direct or indirect contact with other people or contaminated articles that may contain recently shed infected skin cells. Ringworm, a tiny organism, flourishes in moist, warm areas making the skin become very itchy and flaky. Usually it affects the top layer of the epidermis and it is when shedding takes place that infection can be spread. Thus, it is imperative for the practitioner to maintain a very high standard of hygiene at all times: ensuring each patient has their own towel, sweeping the area before and after each treatment session and washing one’s own hands.
Diet should also be looked at, as this is often the reason that the person’s defence system is low. All processed foods should be eliminated, restrict foods that have hidden sugars, any words ending in ‘ose’ indicates a sugar, ie lactose, sucrose etc. One should also be aware of sugar substitutes, as they do not contain any nutritional benefits whatsoever, they are artificially refined carbohydrates and there is no need for them in the diet.
Often eczema sufferers have a totally congested and acidic system. This is shown by the colour of their skin, which may have a grey tinge or poor colour. You may find the colon area on the feet or hands puffy and inflamed; this may be due to a deficient diet often high in either hidden sugars, dairy products or processed foods The ingestion of known irritants such as tomatoes, oranges, green peppers, cucumber, potatoes, mushrooms, condiments, spices and curries, also excess tea and coffee, can play a part in causing more aggravation to the existing problem.
When patients come for reflexology they are often unsure as to whether they will get a response or not. They are therefore amazed at how the essential moisturising factor of the skin seems to be improved with regular reflexology treatments. Treatment appears to advance the whole natural process of skin shedding and skin renewal; it is the stimulation to cells within the stratum geminativum that helps in this exfoliating process. Stimulation also seems to help its secretory functions. The two main excretory substances are sweat and sebum (see below).
Reflexology also brings about a profound sense of well-being and complete relaxation, thus reducing any stress, which is often very evident in people suffering with a skin complaint. A reflexologist will aim to help regulate the general homeostasis of the body. As the kidneys play such a vital role in regulating the composition of the internal environment, extra stimulation on this reflex point is very important. The kidney reflex needs to be worked several ways to ensure proper activity within the organ. The internal environment of the body is kept within narrow but normal limits by feedback mechanisms; many systems or organs of the body are involved. The hypothalamus regulates many hormonal functions. The lungs improve the gaseous exchange within the alveolus helping the intake of oxygen and expulsion of carbon dioxide which is by diffusion. The liver balances the blood glucose concentrations maintaining the correct levels. The role of the skin is in making sure that the body temperature does not deviate too much beyond accepted limits.
Reflexology has a wonderful way of helping balance all the above systems of the body and all secretory functions. Secretion is one of the skin’s most important functions. Sebum, a natural lubricant from the sebaceous glands, keeps the epidermis supple and helps to reduce any tendency to dryness; it also protects with its antibacterial action and antiseptic properties. Perspiration contains some sodium chloride, small quantities of urea and lactic acid; it is secreted from the sudorific glands. These two main substances together create what is known as the ‘acid mantle’, with a pH between 4.5 and 6; this helps protect the skin from any growth of organisms. It is essential that the correct balance is maintained. The pH of the skin is most important, just like the pH of the body fluids, all of which must be maintained at a neutral pH level.
The sweat glands are governed by the sympathetic nervous system. Often when there is excess stress or an emotional overload, activity within the glands increases and they discharge cellular matter as well as fluid. This is shown when there are sweat spots on the feet or hands; these often arise when there has been any overload on the emotions or there is undue stress. Eccrine sweat is a slightly acid and watery fluid which contains and excretes a certain amount of urea, one of the chief waste products of the body. Excess tension in the body can exacerbate this natural process. If the liver or renal function is slightly defective, this waste product will then try to pass out through the skin. If the person has a skin disorder, this action can be inhibited further causing internal imbalances. It is vital that the sympathetic nerves are calmed down and the hormones of the endocrine system are stimulated, as both are involved in the regulatory mechanism. Thus, in the case of skin disorders, such as eczema, reflexology seems to help in the healing process with an action similar to an emollient softening and soothing the skin if it is dry, hard or cracked.
Usually, at the first treatment session, I suggest a fast for 2 to 3 days (see chapter 11, page 385) with lots of water to flush through the toxins. However, I instruct patients to do this only if they confirm that their GP is in agreement and they are able to have a quiet couple of days. Then a restricted diet for about 2 weeks is recommended. The diet should consist of lots of raw salads or lightly cooked vegetables; dressings can be made with olive oil and lemon. Quantity does not matter, individuals should let hunger be their guide. They must ensure, however, that they do not have any mucus-building foods during this period, then a bland diet together with reflexology sessions should follow until all eruptions have completely healed and disappeared.
It is important to check first to see whether there are any stomach problems; flatulence or acid regurgitation is often a sign that there may be an allergy or a lactose intolerance, and dairy products could be making the problem worse. Reflexology is a marvellous way to detoxify the body; working on the liver reflex will help to eliminate any excess heat in the body and help normalise and balance its function.
Energy in the body takes many forms; chemical energy, electrical energy and heat energy from muscle contraction. This energy flow is maximised during a reflexology treatment, ensuring improvement in health and harmony of the body in general.

• Extract from Reflexology: The Definitive Practitioner’s Manual by Beryl Crane. Element Books Limited Shaftesbury 1997.

by Beryl Crane

We all have to work to rules and regulations, whatever our occupation.

Your reflexologist has a set of rules and regulations to work within. They are

there to protect both you and your reflexologist. The following is a list

guidelines to help your reflexologist to decide if you should be treated. The

first three are contra – indications. This is when it is not advisable to be given

reflexology. The rest of the list is to outline when treatment can be given,

however great care must be given to each case :

1. Contagious Or Acute Infectious Diseases It is very unwise to receive treatment, as this may cause cross infection.
2. Gangrene Of Legs Or Feet It is only wise to have hand reflexology.
3. Internal Bleeding Treatment should only be given AFTER the problem has been diagnosed and treated by a medical practitioner.
4. Acute Inflammation Of Venous And Lymphatic Systems / Deep Vein Thrombosis / Phlebitis Treatment should be given with great care and it is advisable that your reflexologist should work closely with your GP.
5. Pregnancy / Unstable Pregnancies (Miscarriage) Again treatment should be given with caution with in the first 14 – 16 weeks and with all unstable pregnancies. After this stage of the pregnancy, light treatments would be beneficial – especially for morning sickness.
6. Use Of Heavy Drug Medication / Alcohol / Drug Abuser Treatment should be followed very carefully. You may not respond to the treatment. There is a danger of expelling important medication.
7. Damaged Areas / Scars / Bruises / Cuts Although it is quite alright to have treatment, areas which are painful or recent scar tissue should be avoided.
8. Conditions Where Surgery Is Indicated / After Surgery If extra care is given, treatment can help you prepare for surgery and help to strengthen afterwards.
9. Swollen Areas / Oedema As with all painful or inflamed areas, caution should be taken.
10. Osteoporosis / Decalcification / Malunion Of Bone / Poor Healing Of Fracture / Fractures Care should be taken to avoid direct contact with the damaged bones or fracture. Clients over the age of 60, should receive light treatment as they are more prone to osteoporosis.
11. Psychosis / Manic Depression / Paranoia Although reflexology is very helpful to the patient, your reflexologist should really have some counselling experience to deal with these conditions.

Reflexology has many benefits, however I personally think that the main
benefit is that it reduces stress. The majority of today’s illnesses are caused
by stress, infact it is believed that seventy five percent of illness is stress
related. How many times have you heard someone say that they are feeling a
little " run down " and are in the need of a tonic ? If everyone spent fifteen
minuets quality time each day on themselves and used this time to relax, then
this would help their body to improve their general health. However, who has
time for themselves these days ? This so called tonic can be offered by
reflexology in a complete natural way. It uses no drugs and apart from the
healing crisis ( which really is a sign of improvement ) has no side effects.


During each session of reflexology that you have, more than 70,000
nerves are stimulated. Stress and tension are reduced and you become more
relaxed. Crystal deposits which block the body’s natural pathways are broken
down and allow your energy to flow more freely. Your body will start to have a
feeling of well being and aches and pains will be reduced. Poisons which we
take in from foodstuffs and even drinks like tea and coffee are detoxified and
encourage the body to heal itself.


The main point to remember is that although you will receive many
benefits, reflexology helps to generate your well being. However there is no
promise that the treatment will cure !

The human body has the ability to heal itself. Following illness, stress,
injury or disease, it is an a state of imbalance and vital energy pathways are
blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can
also be used to restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and
encourage healing.

Reflexology can be helpful in many conditions including :

1. Headaches & Migraine – These may be caused by a number ofdifferent factors including tension, neck problems, sinus congestion, eye trouble and can also be associated with the hormonal changes which take place during the menstrual cycle and the menopause.
   
   
2. Back Problems – Treatment will not be able to diagnose the exactnature of the back problem but, but help can be given in many cases, including a slipped disc, pulled muscle, curvature of the spine andstiffness in the back.
   
   
3. Thyroid – With an over-active thyroid gland, the symptoms may includerestlessness, nervousness, irritability, tiredness, weight loss but with an appetite. An under-active thyroid gland slows down the metabolic processes with symptoms including weight gain, sluggishness, shortness of breath, weakness and tiredness.
   
   
4. Asthma – In this condition breathing difficulties are experienced on exhaling and there may be bouts of wheezing and coughing. It can becaused by an allergic condition or may be due to tension or stress.
   
   
5. Blood Pressure – Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the bloodon the vessel walls and when it is raised this puts an extra strain on theheart and the blood vessels. The causes of high blood pressure aremany and may involve stress, dietary factors and glandular imbalances.
   
   
6. AIDS – Reflexology treatment may be helpful to AIDS patients. Witheating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, the general balancingeffect of the treatment and the relaxation achieved may well aidrecovery of the eating disorder.
   

When you first visit a reflexologist, your practitioner will discuss your
medical history with you. This is to enable them to consider if any treatment
should be given consent from your GP This also helps you to get to know
your practitioner and you may have lots of question which you will want
answering.


Normally your treatment will start with relaxation techniques to help you
get use to having your feet worked on. Shortly afterwards your reflexologist
will start to work on both of your feet (You may also find that your hands are
worked on too) . The reflexologist will be looking for imbalances in your feet.




Each part of your foot corresponds to the relevant part of your body.
Reflex areas are found on the soles, top and sides of your foot. Your hand
also has reflex areas on the palm and back of the hand.


The feet are divided into 5 zones on each foot, this produces 10
longitudinal zones as discovered by Dr. William Fitzgerald. After discovering
zone therapy, he produced charts to explain this :


Each foot can also be divided into five sections across the foot, this
includes both the front and the back of the foot.


Using the ten longitudinal zones and the five sections, it is possible to
visualize which part of the foot corresponds to that area of the body. It can
also pin point your feelings and even the five elements ; Ether , Air , Fire ,
Water and Earth.


The treatment is usually a pleasant experience and induces a deep state
of relaxation which helps to alleviate physical and mental stress. This
encourages the body to heal.


As the body is brought into balance, various healing reactions can occur.
The body rids itself of toxins resulting in an increased activity in the
eliminating systems. These reactions are temporary and indicate that the
treatment is having some effect on your body.


Your treatment can last up to one hour and afterwards you must comply
with the after care advise which your reflexologist will give you.


When your reflexologist stimulates the reflex areas of your foot, your
body’s natural electric energy works along side the nervous system and the
meridian lines to clear any blockage on those lines and in the corresponding
areas.



Treatment can also break up crystal deposits (calcium from the
bloodstream) which feels like grit under your skin. These deposits interfere
with your natural flow of the body’s energy.

Reflexology is an ancient healing art that originated in China, Egypt and India. It has the ability to bring about a state of relaxation, and because of this it is able to assist the body's own natural healing to take place. Reflexology is also able to complement other types of health care.

Reflexology is commonly explained as the scientific theory that maps out the reflexes on the feet and hands to all the organs and the rest of the body. ie Certain spots on the feet and hands have an energy connection to other parts of your body. By applying acupressure and massage-like techniques to the feet and hands you will positively affect all other body parts.

Reflexology is primarily used as a natural holistic therapy to promote relaxation and healing of the body, mind and soul. Also, it can be used as part of a health analysis, since the feet give clues about what is going on inside the body.

It has been said that the foot is a reflection of our health, and reflexology gives us a means to use this reflection to improve our health.

There are different kinds of reflexology. It can be practiced through the feet, hands or ears. Another form of reflexology is called Iridology which is based on the idea that the iris of the eye reflects the entire body through the central nervous system. Body reflexology maps out reflex points located in various areas on the body (including the tongue) that when pressed will affect different areas of the body. We prefer to concentrate on foot reflexology

One idea that this practice involves is the belief that there are invisible pathways of energy that run vertically along the body. These energy flows or lines are called zones.

Working with these lines, and with points on the lines, is called "zone therapy". Zone therapy divides the body into sections. These lines of enegy run through the body, affecting each organ along their path. Disease tends to run along these lines. For example diabetes is a disease primarily caused by malfunctioning of the pancreas. You can see from the diagram that the area where the pancreas would lie is located between zones 3 and 4. Associated complications with diabetes include problems with the kidneys, which are also on zones 3 and 4 and the eyes, again in zones 3 and 4!

Breaking up blocked energies works by restoring proper energy and blood flow. This in turn helps restore proper energy to the organs.

An easy way to visualise the general reflex areas on the foot.

For more advice, and to experience this fascinating and successful treatment, please contact us at our salon in Allestree, Derby..

Stroke is a major cause of disability and death in the UK, and this article describes the positive role that reflexology treatment can play in the recovery process.

­­Working a reflex point on the big toe

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology may be describes as a specialized for of massage of the feet and-less common-of the hands. Performed to detect and correct "imbalances" in the body that may be causing ill-health, it is, however, much more than simply massage. According to reflexologists, distinct regions of the feet correspond to particular organs of the body system, and the stimulation of the appropriate region is intended to eliminate energy blockages thought to produce pain or disease in the associated structures. The arrangement of reflexology areas on the feet mirror the organization of the body to the extent that organs on the right side of the body are represented on the right foot and so with the left.

What Can Reflexology Treat?

Reflexology is a good all-round therapy foe people of any age, however, it is most useful for conditions such as: digestive problems, menstrual irregularities, stress and stress related disorders, fatigue, aches and pains, inflammatory skin conditions, pregnancy problems, and chronic conditions affecting the elderly and children, such as dementia in the elderly and glue ear and colic in children.

What are the Effects Of Reflexology?

The person being treated will experience a variety of sensations as different areas of the feet are worked on. Any feeling of pain or discomfort when a "congested" area is being treated is usually brief and soon goes away, leaving a feeling of release that can often be felt at once. Most people report a feeling of lightness and relaxation, with renewed energy, immediately after a session of treatment. This may occasionally be followed by further reactions known technically as cleansing reaction as the treatment takes effect: the client may experience a headache, a running nose, a mild rash on the skin, and a strong urge to urinate. This effect only lasts a shot while if it happens at all.

Method and Elements of Treatment

Working with clean dry feet the therapist relaxes the feet by stroking them. Starting with the toes. Working down the length of each foot to the heal. Including the top and sides. Both feet are worked simultaneously. Therapists use a variety of ways to put pressure on the reflex points. Including rubbing, rotating and caterpillar-like movements, but all usually begin with firm but quite gentle stroking movement over the entire foot. A full reflexology session usually lasts between 45-60 minutes. Most therapists agree that for best results a number of treatments may be essential, and should take place on a regular basis.

What happens during a treatment?

During a reflexology treatment, the client lies fully clothed (except for socks) on a comfortable couch or recliner, while the reflexologist gently presses and manipulates different parts of the feet. It is usually deeply relaxing and some clients even fall asleep! Afterwards the client is given a glass of water and they can discuss any imbalances or significant areas identified during the treatment.

Is there any reason why I shouldn't have reflexology?

There are very few contra-indications for reflexology, since it is a gentle and non-invasive treatment. The reflexologist will take a full case history at your first meeting and advise you if there is any problem. You should not be treated if you have a fever or contagious illness. Clients who are pregnant, who have had deep vein problems, recent surgery, recent accidents or any major illness should always inform their reflexologist.

The first three months of pregnancy is a time for caution, particularly if the client has a history of unstable pregnancies, since reflexology promotes hormone function. Later in pregnancy reflexology can be extremely beneficial.

More information on reflexology treatments and training is available from the Association of Reflexologists.

About the Therapists

De'ja' vue. Inc.'s reflexology practitioners are certified and/or licensed massage therapists. The reflexologist is trained to advise you of the general Body Building needs only, and express an awareness of these needs as helping the body in general. Each therapist holds their reflexology skill as an avenue to help the body help itself. As their agree indicates: "The feet don't lie!"