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	> What is Reflexology
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	> Special Equipment Used
	> What Can I Expect
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Reflexology

What Can I Expect During a Treatment?

Reflexology sessions in general last from 30 minutes to 1 hour.  In some cases (such as infants, the elderly, or particular illnesses) shorter treatments over shorter intervals may be given to avoid over-stimulating the body.  When the effects of the treatment have been carefully monitored, sessions may then be extended to between 45 and 60 minutes.

The session is clothed with only the removal of shoes and socks as a requirement.  If a Reflexology session is given as part of an overall massage session, then the therapist may request the removal of additional clothing.

For the initial treatment, the Reflexologist will conduct a thorough consultation and ask about medical history, general health, exercise regimen, nutrition, and lifestyle. This is to ensure that the treatment is tailored to the individual needs of each client. The color and condition of the feet are also noted before beginning treatment. The first visit will usualy last about 15 minutes longer than subsequent treatments due to the initial assessment. In the unlikely event that there are any concerns that Reflexology could interfere with your health, or with any drugs you are currently taking, the reflexologist might ask you to speak to your General Physican before undergoing treatment.

Many patients of Reflexology and other alternative therapies such as Acupuncture and Reiki have stated that that not only do they enjoy the benefits of Reflexology but also that a reflexologist will connect more deeply with their emotional issues as compared to a General Physician. A Physician often spends less one-on-one time with the patient and resorts to medication prescriptions to relieve symptoms (or often when immediate appointments are needed, the General Physician is bookes and will refer the patient to a nurse practitioner or Physician's assistant).

The treatment takes place in a comfortable reclining chair, or on a massage table.  The client is often covered with a soft blanket.  In some cases, the reflexologist will give the patient a warm foot bath or do a biomechanical foot assessment. Oils, creams and lotions are typically not used in traditional Reflexology work, although if the Reflexology is being conducted as part of a massage session then the therapist may also use massage equipment such as oils or lotions. 

The option of listening to soothing music during the session may be available to enhance the sense of peace and relaxation experienced.

Comfortable thumb pressure is applied to each reflex point in sequence, accompanied by very relaxing stretch and movement techniques to release tension and provide additional relaxation to the feet or hands.  The firm pressure applied during Reflexology is firm enough to be enjoyed by even the most ticklish of people!

A professionally trained Reflexologist can detect subtle changes in the reflext points, and by working on these points may often rapidly affect the corresponding organ or system of the body. Stress cues are evaluated (e.g. parts of the foot or hand that shows adaptation to stress, resulting in callousing, bunions, corns, etc.).  The assessment of these stress cues aids the reflexologist in targeting the areas of stress and to design a session appropriate for the individual. 

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