Reflexology Contraindications: Conditions to Avoid

Question
Hi:) I am doing refelxology course and I need to know why the below conditions may be contraindications. Thank you in advance for your help.

-Kidney infection
-degenerative bone disease, such as Osteoporosis
-arthritis
-whiplash
-slipped disc
-acute rheumatism
-inflamation
-cervical spondylitis
-after a heavy meal

Answer
Thanks for your inquiry, Meg.

Every therapy has its own set of contraindications and reflexology is no exception. Contraindications means that sometimes a therapy is not recommended for someone with specific problems.  Here are some general things to keep in mind when first starting out using reflexology.

People who are very tender to the touch can include people with degenerative conditions such as diabetes, urinary system problems and the elderly. Do not overwork these people.

When working on your baby, it is important to not over work them. Use a very gentle pressure and work no longer than 10-15 minutes for the entire treatment.

Do not work directly on any injuries or foot conditions, and do not work an area that is painful to the touch.

Do not overdo pregnant women, especially if they are prone to miscarriages.

It is not advisable to administer reflexology if your recipient has:

- a contagious or acute infectious disease

- had recent surgery of malignant tumor

- foot wounds, burns or infection

- deep vein thrombosis/phlebitis

- pregnancy (treatment should be done with caution to certain reflexes and caution should be taken particularly in the early stages of pregnancy)

- you should probably avoid reflexology when you are using alcohol or street drugs.

- for daily users of strong pain medication such as morphine, reflexology is not advisable.

Of all the conditions you have listed, the only one(s) I might consider contraindicated for reflexology would be:

Kidney infection
inflamation
and after a heavy meal.

I hope the above answers your question.
Michael, LMT