Reflexology and Parkinson's
Reflexology is based on the theory that different points on the feet and hands are linked with different areas of the body. By massaging different areas of the feet and hands, the corresponding area of the body can be treated.
It's often used to help relaxation, and other problems, including digestive and hormonal issues, stiffness in the back and neck, and sleep problems.
Jane has Parkinson's and has regular reflexology sessions, and her reflexologist Cat. They share their experiences here.
Jane has had Parkinson’s for 18 years and enjoys regular reflexology sessions.
I was at a party in our village and started chatting with a reflexologist. I told her about my Parkinson’s and she offered me a free session.
I’d had reflexology before in a beauty salon, so I knew it would be relaxing, but I was interested to hear what she found. That was 4 years ago and I now see Cat every 2 weeks. She has a real gift.
In the treatment room, I lie on a bed. The curtains are drawn, there is soft lighting and music playing quietly in the background. Sometimes we chat during a session, or I may fall asleep - it’s completely up to me.
Each session lasts about an hour and Cat massages my feet in turn. She uses aromatherapy oils, which smell wonderful. It’s very calming and feels lovely. Sometimes she might suddenly touch a point on my foot that will cause me slight discomfort, but it doesn't really hurt. There’s been times when Cat has found things during a session I’ve not even mentioned, such as a urine infection.
I always leave a session feeling very relaxed. Sometimes the next day I can feel a bit unwell and it might actually make my symptoms worse, but then I will feel better. It really does give me a general sense of wellbeing.
Cat Jones is a reflexologist and member of the Association of Reflexologists. She has practiced reflexology for 8 years.
What happens during a reflexology session?
I will do an initial consultation with someone to establish any relevant medical details. During a session, my client simply has to remove their shoes and socks.
I like my client to feel warm and comfortable on my couch so that they can fully relax. Some clients like to chat quietly and others lie back and listen to the gentle music.
I will then use my hands to apply pressure and specific massage techniques to the feet. My style is very gentle and flowing which enables clients to fully relax. I use a variety of subtle reflexology techniques. This helps the whole body to feel balanced.
My clients walk out of the session feeling wonderfully relaxed. It's very similar to the feeling after having had a whole body massage!
How has reflexology helped the people with Parkinson's you've worked with?
Clients enjoy having a treatment which is positive, empathetic and uplifting. My clients say they feel balanced in mind and body after a session and that regular sessions help them cope much better with their Parkinson’s.
Reflexology is about treating the person as a whole rather than a specific complaint. It's not a cure for Parkinson’s though, and just as each client is different, so is their experience of reflexology.
How long might it take someone to see results from reflexology?
Reflexology is unique to the individual. Results depend on how often they have sessions and how they respond to those sessions. If a client has weekly sessions to start with it can kick-start faster progress than say, monthly ones.
How can someone get the most out of reflexology?
It’s important to commit and give it a good try. You also need to have realistic expectations. If you build it into your self care routine, you may see real health benefits in time.
Don’t worry if your symptoms appear during a session - your reflexologist should be able to adapt the session accordingly.
If someone wanted to try reflexology, what would you recommend they look for in a practitioner?
It’s important to see someone who has got a proper qualification and training in reflexology. The Association of Reflexologists does have a "find a practitioner" page and is a good place to start.
After that, the single most important thing is to find a practitioner that you feel comfortable with, and keep trying until you find someone who resonates with you.
Some therapists work from clinics or a home treatment room. Some can offer home visits, which if clients can't get out as easily.