Question 1

Is Reflexology painful or ticklish?

Accepted Answer

Reflexology involves various degrees of pressure and manipulation in certain reflex points, but the entire process is gentle and relaxing and while some areas of the feet may be tender, they should not feel painful.

Question 2

I’m worried that my feet might smell!

Accepted Answer

No problem. Cleansing your feet is done at the start of every treatment. This is also when I will check for any problems or skin conditions/infections.

Question 3

What if I fall asleep and snore?

Accepted Answer

Some people fall asleep, drool, snore or make stomach noises. All of this is quite normal, it proves the treatment has achieved the aim of deep relaxation. Please don’t apologise. Falling asleep is actually a compliment to your therapist and is an indication of trust, relaxation and good techniques.

Question 4

Can Reflexology or Therapeutic Massage make my condition worse?

Accepted Answer

No, Reflexology is a non-invasive natural therapy that relaxes the body and is essentially harmless. And Swedish Massage is therapeutic and gentle. In some cases, the release of toxins can result in the body’s natural healing process and symptoms could include a headache, nausea and perspiration but these are temporary and not serious.

Question 5

Should I talk during a treatment?

Accepted Answer

Completely up to you. Most people lie quietly with their eyes closed and even fall asleep. Others relax more by chatting. Either way is perfectly acceptable. This is your time. But there will always be time to ask questions after the treatment.

Question 6

Can anyone have Reflexology or Massage?

Accepted Answer

Everyone can benefit from a Reflexology or Massage treatment. You do not have to have an illness; some clients just want to alleviate stress and relax. All ages can benefit from infants, children, teenagers to the older generation.  There are a few conditions that prevent treatment. I cannot treat anyone in their first 12 weeks of Pregnancy, while a client is under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs, if they have a temperature/fever/Flu or heavy cold/ contagious or infectious diseases, or are suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting. A pre-treatment form will need to be filled out indicating any potential health concerns.

Question 7

What do I wear?

Accepted Answer

You can remain fully clothed for Reflexology, just remove shoes and socks, and please wear loose fitting trousers to I can access the lower leg.  For a Fully Body Massage, you will keep your underwear on and be discreetly covered with towels during the treatment. Other treatments may require you to remove the top half of your clothing only.

Question 8

Can I receive reflexology if I suffer from common foot problems such as athlete's foot or verruca’s?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can but as these are contagious skin diseases, the affected area would need to be covered and avoided during treatment. This may affect your overall experience and the effectiveness of the treatment. I encourage anyone struggling with a recurring or persistent foot disease to seek medical advice and to treat with the appropriate medication before having a treatment.

Question 9

Can you treat people on Medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes, providing you have written consent from your GP/Nurse or are willing to sign an informed consent form.

Question 10

Can you diagnose what’s wrong with me?

Accepted Answer

No, as a Reflexologist I am unable to diagnose or cure medical conditions. Your feet may indicate areas that are congested or out of balance within your body and we can discuss what we find and Massage may highlight areas of tightness. But if you have any questions regarding a medical condition, you should consult your GP.

Sarah Richardson Reflexology

Frequently Asked Questions