All
effective methods involve risks because they can be applied either too
intensively, inappropriately or wrongly. In particular, we may regard
situations in which we have doubt as contraindications.
Reflexology treatments can not replace any other treatment, therapy or
medication !
Absolute contraindications:
- Systemic problems and severe diseases
- Fever and infectious diseases (this includes severe colds
and flu)
- Skin disease in the intended treatment area
- Injuries and burns
- Fresh operations (generally!)
- Time after a heart attack or stroke (in the first 3-6
months massages contain big risks)
- Cancer patients (especially if they receive radiation
treatments or chemotherapy)
- Cardiac pacemaker
- Unclear or severe pain
- Bruises in the intended treatment area
- Relapsing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple
sclerosis
- Phlebitis (also heavy varicose veins)
- Lymphatic oedema (cave!! Cardiac oedema)
- Predisposed to seizures (including epilepsy)
- Risk pregnancies (there are more than 50 risk criteria!)
Relative contraindications:
These include all pregnancies. In the first 3 months, we should refrain
entirely from massages and treatments, and in the remaining gestation
period reflexology treatments of the hormonal and abdominal areas are
contra-indicated.
During menstruation the menstrual bleeding may be increased
For pregnant women with following problems reflexology treatments are
regarded as a risk (excerpts, list incomplete):
- Diabetes (including gestational diabetes),
- High blood pressure, lupus,
- Previous miscarriages,
- Pre term labour,
- Anaemia,
- Multiple births,
- Kidney diseases,
- Pre-eclampsia,
- Pregnancy problems in the family,
- Fetal growth retardation,
- Under weight of the mother or child.
Incompatibilities:
When we use essential oils, it is important to note that there are
potential incompatibilities. Please ask for professional advice.
Essential oils can increase the photo-sensitivity of the skin
They can have an adverse effect on pregnancy. Some should not be
applied on children
Others can reduce the effectiveness of particular drugs or of
homoeopathic remedies.
Disclosure obligations:
In a responsible treatment, it is our duty to inform our patients and
clients that reflexology treatments can increase or weaken the effects
of drugs. This is especially true for insulin-dependent diabetic
patients. Therefore, on the day of massage and the following the
concerned should measure their blood glucose more frequently in order
to avoid potential hypoglycaemic crises.
