During your pregnancy, you may choose from a variety of complementary health care techniques. Reflexology can help relieve some of the physical discomforts of pregnancy while bolstering you and your developing child. Communicating with your reflexologist and medical professional is the best way to ensure you get the care you need.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a form of bodywork that focuses attention on the hands, feet and ears. Most reflexology sessions concentrate on the feet due to the abundance of nerve endings and greater sensitivity of the feet. The goal of reflexology is to promote overall health by stimulating the healing potential of your body. Reflexes are points on the hands, feet and ears that correspond to other areas of the body. Stimulation of these reflexes affects the corresponding area of the body. Your reflexologist will incorporate a variety of strokes and light to medium pressure on the reflexes to support your overall health.
Benefits
Reflexology has many benefits for you during your pregnancy. Improved blood circulation throughout your body, particularly to the reproductive organs. Induced relaxation and ability to cope with stress. Assistance with pain reduction of the low back, legs and feet. Reflexology can help relieve and prevent nausea. And, it provides a non-invasive method of care, as you remain clothed during a reflexology session.
Precautions
Your reflexologist needs to know if you have any complications or preexisting medical conditions to provide the most beneficial reflexology. Some conditions to inform your reflexologist of include diabetes, high blood pressure, placenta previa and previous miscarriages. Deep pressure may cause tissue damage or discomfort. This discomfort can cause tension which is counter-productive. Depending the progression of your pregnancy, sitting or lying down in a certain position may become uncomfortable.
Recommendations
Visit a trained and licensed professional. Inform your reflexologist of any medical conditions before the session. Tell your reflexologist if you are uncomfortable during the reflexology treatment. Follow diet, exercise and nutrition recommendations of your physician. Consult with your doctor or midwife regularly to monitor the progress of your pregnancy.
References
- "Massage and Bodywork"; Proceed With Caution: Foot/Ankle Massage for Pregnant Clients; Leslie Stager; September/October 2009
- "Reflexology: The Definitive Practitioner's Manual"; Beryl Crane; 1997
Member Comments