Most people understand that reflexology is a lot more in-depth than a massage. But what makes reflexology different from a foot massage?
Therapeutic Reflexology is both a science and an art. Although it may be classified as a form of massage, it goes much deeper than that. The principles and techniques are very different.
During therapeutic reflexology treatments, the therapist works on specific reflexes on the feet that correspond to different organs, nerves and energy pathways in the body.
The masseurs who do the foot massage use various techniques to massage the foot but do not work specific reflexes.
Foot masseurs stimulate soft tissue by working from the outside in, using techniques such as ‘kneading’, ‘stroking’, and ‘milking’.
Reflexologists work from the inside out because they stimulate the nervous system. They stimulate the reflexes using the ‘crawling’ technique or firm pressure and rotations.
Reflexologists study the reflexes mapped out on the feet, which correspond to the organs of the body. They also study the physical manifestations on the feet, such as bunions, calluses, nail disorders, cracked skin, swelling, temperature changes, etc. This helps them identify the organs or parts of the body that are stressed, imbalanced, or not working effectively.
The purpose of a foot massage is solely for relaxation and de-stressing. Although reflexology can be very relaxing, its intention is to stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanisms and allow balancing and healing to take place.
In South Africa, Reflexologists are registered with the AHPCSA (Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa) and called Therapeutic Reflexologists. Therapeutic Reflexology is one of the official alternative / complementary healing modalities in South Africa. The AHPCSA gives guidelines to health professionals to protect patients. Practising reflexology without a registration number from the AHPCSA is illegal.
To further enhance the distinction between reflexology and foot massage, reflexology therapists must adhere to a number of rules and regulations regarding how they ‘advertise’ and where they have their practice rooms. Allied Health Professionals also need to attain a certain number of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points to remain registered with the council and keep up to date in the health field.
The Scope of practice for therapeutic reflexology consists of:
- Verbal and physical assessment of the patient’s state of health
- The application of therapeutic reflexology treatments by use of hands or other suitable tools
- The use of Vacuflex concepts machines
- Relaxation techniques
- Offer lifestyle and nutritional advise
- Other modalities should be used to enhance the reflexology treatment after appropriate training.
- Attend to patients outside of the practice
- Education on optimal health
- Delivery of emergency CPR
- Inter-disciplinary consultation, liaison and/or referral
Sources:
http://www.sareflexology.org.za/scope-of-practice/
http://www.ahpcsa.co.za