A reflexologist is not a medical doctor and so cannot diagnose medical conditions or illnesses. Imbalances are noted along with other information about the patient and taken into consideration when developing a treatment plan.

Reflexology can activate the healing crises or the Jarisch – Herxheimer reaction. This can manifest as a host of unpleasant symptoms caused by toxins in the body being released at a faster rate than the body can eliminate them.

Symptoms from past illnesses can recur, as traces of viruses and bacteria are released into the system for elimination.This is a sign that your body is going through a deep healing process. The discomforts should only last a few days.

Due largely to the persistent efforts of Inge Dougans (reflexologist, author, and principle of the International School of Reflexology and Meridian Therapy) in 2000, reflexology was accorded the status of a health-care profession byThe Allied Health Professionals Council of South Africa. Their main objective is to protect the health of the public. Therapists are required to be registered with this council and act according to its rules and regulations as well as perform within their scope of practice and in accordance with the National Patients’ Rights Charter.

The effects of reflexology directly after treatment are normally uplifting. You should feel relaxed and pampered, energized and in a good mood. To maximize the effects of treatment, stay calm and relaxed for as long as possible.

To assist the body in the elimination of waste and toxins and to minimize the discomfort of the detox process, it is important to drink plenty of water with some lemon or herbal teas, increase your fiber intake, get enough rest and be careful not to increase the body’s toxic load.

Some of the following effects may be experienced after treatment: increased functioning of all the body systems, increased elimination of toxins and waste, better circulation, improved complexion, skin irritations, increased mucous production, disturbed sleep, fatigue, anxiety, mood swings, nausea, dizziness, feverishness, aches and soreness, congestion and low blood pressure.

There are some conditions that should be treated with caution, or not be treated with reflexology at all. Reflexology can be dangerous for patients suffering from deep vein thrombosis and internal bleeding. Special care must be taken with those who have diabetes, phlebitis, lymphatic cancer, leukaemia, osteoporosis and epilepsy. Caution must also be observed with woman who are in their first trimester of pregnancy.

Treatments have a minimum duration of 1 hour, with a cost of R350.