Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reflexology the same as a Massage? 

Reflexology is not just a Massage.  While both can be very relaxing and even FEEL similar, they are not the same. Massage focuses more on the muscles and tissues in the body (along with tendons, ligaments, etc.) while Reflexology focuses more on using specific points in the different maps (feet, hands, ears, etc.) that represent the whole body and its systems. 

Is Reflexology only for the feet?

As previously stated above, there are maps representing the whole body on the feet, hands, ears, and even the face. Each of these maps have specific points that Reflexologists can work on to promote homeostasis in the body. It is a common misconception that Reflexology only helps area that you are working on since the Reflexologist is only touching that area.  The truth is the benefits reported by people are reflected all throughout the body.

 Who can Reflexology benefit?

Reflexology has proven beneficial for people of all ages from newborns to the elderly.  Many people first seek out Reflexology to help foot pain such as plantar fasciitis or for relaxation. It is only then that they realize all the other health benefits it provides. Once they recognize those benefits they choose to continue regular treatments. There are even some areas Reflexologists can choose to specialize in such as fertility, children, hospice patients, stroke patients, PTSD, and many others.

Do you treat children/infants?

Yes. Reflexology is great for children. It is very relaxing and non-invasive. Not to mention, it can be great if they are having digestive issues, sleep issues or a lingering cough from an illness. 

Are there any special considerations or contraindications for Reflexology?

The only time Reflexology may not be recommended is if someone has a blood clot. The reason for this is because Reflexology increases circulation throughout the body so there is a theory that while increasing circulation it may cause any clots to shift to the heart, brain, or lungs. In the case of blood clots it is required that you discuss with your doctor if they believe it is a risk or not. If they decide it is ok to have Reflexology treatments your practitioner will request a written note confirming their decision.

Is Reflexology just a spa or relaxation session?

While some people love Reflexology because of how relaxing it is, it is beneficial for so many other things.

Especially when it’s done on a regular basis such as weekly, biweekly, monthly, etc. The more often the treatments the better the results. 

Is Reflexology only good for stress relief?

Since it is estimated that 70-80% of illnesses are caused or exacerbated by stress, the fact that Reflexology helps relieve stress would also mean that its effects would help to alleviate some other issues too!  To learn more about what else it is good for besides stress, please see the section on the benefits of Reflexology.

Is Reflexology painful?

There are different methods for Reflexology. The Eunice Ingham method of Reflexology is very popular in England, Australia, Canada and the United States. The Traditional Chinese method is popular in Asia, especially China and Taiwan. The traditional Chinese method typically uses deeper pressure and also sometimes adds the use of tools such as wooden sticks to apply more pressure to specific points. The Eunice Ingham method or Western method, typically uses a more light to moderate pressure and rarely uses tools. Other factors to keep in mind are that each practitioner tends to develop their own techniques or methods that are unique to them. As for Ashley, she prefers to use a light to moderate pressure which means that treatment is usually nice and relaxing yet still enough to be therapeutic. However, sometimes people do have some areas in the feet that may be a little tender in general due to any imbalances that may be present in the body. If there are areas that are tender Ashley can usually pick up on that by your body language and will apply a little less pressure or change up the technique for those areas. If ever you are in a treatment and do find an area to be sensitive please do not be shy or try to tough it out! Speak up so your practitioner is aware and can adjust their pressure and techniques. 

What if my feet are ticklish?

Many people who have ticklish feet get Reflexology on a regular basis and have no issues. The general consensus has been that the most ticklish part is typically during the cleansing of the feet, or if a person has a specific area of the foot that is more ticklish than others. The ticklish feeling usually only lasts for a moment and then the client is able to relax and enjoy the experience.

How many Reflexology treatments will I require?

Each person responds to treatments in their own way so it is not always possible to know for sure how many treatments an issue will require. However, as a general rule of thumb when the body typically tends to release the most recent imbalances first. So if you have multiple issues happening the specific issue you are looking for treatment for may not resolve until other more recent issues have resolved first. Another general rule is that it typically takes 1 month of treatment for every year that an issue has existed. 

How often will I require treatments?

The frequency of treatments will differ for everyone given how their body responds to the treatments and what type of condition is being treated. Since treatments build off each other and increase the effectiveness of the previous treatment , it is recommended that your treatments are closer together in the beginning. Think of it as you would with anything to do with your health. For example, eating healthy or exercising regularly. The more consistent you are with it, the better your results. The same goes for Reflexology too! Once you start noticing decent improvements you can space out the treatments since issues will be less acute or active, to less frequent since they will be more for maintenance. 

Can Reflexology be combined with Allopathic medicine?

Absolutely! Reflexology is a complementary alternative medicine (CAM). CAM's are meant to be used in conjunction with modern medicine. 

Are treatments covered by insurance?

Johnsons insurance is one of the few companies that covers Reflexology. There are some Blue cross and Greenshield plans that also cover it but it's not very common. Reflexology can also be covered with some companies through health spending accounts. 

Coverage is also available with some companies under Naturopathy or Naturotherapy. Direct billing is available with Blue Cross and Sunlife under Naturopathy or Naturotherapy. All other companies that cover it do not allow direct billing, but will cover the treatments through reimbursement. At the current time Canada Life does not cover treatments. The only way to know if your particular plan covers treatments for sure is to contact them. They will not give the details of your plan to your practitioner.