While Reflexology is a safe healing practice, it is important to be aware of a few contraindications or times when reflexology might not be a wise choice.
If you are on medication, or attending your doctor for any condition, or if you are uncertain about any of the conditions listed below which may restrict treatment please contact your Doctor / Consultant or GP for his/her advice and consent before making an appointment to receive Reflexology. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice. It does not treat specific illness and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
At Bliss Fountain, we do not diagnose, and we do not give any medical advice or medical diagnosis.
Some of the contraindications include:
- Pregnant – not to have in the first 3 months, Foot Ulcers, Blood Clots.
- Recent operations and Scar tissue – 2 years for major operation, and 6 months small scar; Post-natal; Internal bleeding; Localised severe swelling/inflammation; Open unhealed wounds; Gout in the foot; Recent fractures – mostly not within a minimum 3 months
- Bruising on feet; Cuts, grazes, open skin, rashes, bites, burns, fractures
- Medication for serious conditions; any condition already being treated by a GP because Reflexology may alter the level of drug in body.
- Any untreated severe medical condition, or acute pain – this is because Reflexology may hide a condition which needs medical attention.
- Cancer – especially within 5 years of surgery, because rogue cells may spread through the lymph system ; Cervical spondylitis
- Cardiovascular conditions such as thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, hypotension, heart conditions.
- Any dysfunction of the nervous system, e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease; Psychotic conditions
- Acute rheumatism; Osteoarthritis; Epilepsy; Asthma; Medical oedema
- Spastic conditions; Kidney infections; Trapped or pinched nerve (sciatica) inflamed nerve
- Any contagious skin disease i.e. impetigo, scabies, chicken pox, mumps etc.
- Severe psoriasis or eczema on foot -foot might be too sore to work on.
- Anyone under influence of alcohol or recreational drugs
- Severe varicose veins i.e. phlebitis it is believed that Reflexology may increase pressure of blood to veins; Sunburn.
- Any form of infection, disease or fever; Diarrhoea and vomiting – cross infection – this might make client feel worse and spread the infection.
- First few days of menstruation –Reflexology may make period heavier.
- Reflexology is not ideal immediately after a heavy meal- need to allow 2hours
- Athletes foot or verruca’s; Hormonal implants; Haematoma