reflexology & arthritis of the feet

[Gazeebo]

Hi
can anyone help,I have received an email from a health care worker who is looking for a therapist to treat an elderly client who has early stage dementia and suffers from arthritis in her feet.I myself am reluctant as I don't have the experience.I want to email her back but am not sure what to advise.If the client did'nt have the arthritis in her feet I would be happy to treat her.

many thanks

ambergem

 

[borhan]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

Hi Ambergem,

is it possible to treat the lady's hands? I think I'd arrange a consultation so that you can assess the lady yourself.


Wesam

 

[even]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

Hi ambergem

The first thing to do is ask what type of arthritis it is and servere it is.

Just because someone has arthritis of the foot, doesn't necessarily prevent the client in having foot reflexology. Only in servere cases would foot reflexology be a contraindication. I know some teachers and exam boards sometimes are quite anal and say you mustn't do this and mustn't that, but with experience a lot of contraindications become precautions.

Reflexology can really benefit arthritis, and practised locally on the foot can increase mobility. Mobilisation of the joints is very important and can prevent or a least reduce an increase in stiffness over a period of time.

It may be a good idea to at least meet the client and assess their needs. Treatment may have to start softly with gentle massage (or even just lightly held to allow a transfer of energy). Hand reflexology could be added in (as wesam mentioned) and may also be good for the dementia as well.

Hope all goes well.

Reflex Pixie

 

[Aloodanis]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

Hi Reiki Pixie,

I'm qualified less than a year so still in the anal phase

Wesam

 

[Gamer]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

My lovely mum has very advanced rhumatoid arthritis in her feet - so much so that all her toes are dislocated. I have had no problems treating her - I do practice Gentle Touch Reflexology so the pressure is very very light she loves having treatments whenever she can.

I find it amazing that whilst they are interesting to look at, her feet feel normal and if I close my eyes I could not tell that they were bent with toes out of place.

Good luck whatever you decide

 

[sweet like salsa]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

My Husband has arthritis in his feet and they are very stiff at the start of the treatment but by the end they are much looser and he gets so many benefits from it. It takes a long time to loosen them up and some times I have to aviod areas due to swellling (as Reiki Pixie said, it depends on the type of arthritis).

I can totally understand that you are nervous about it, but like the others have said, give it a try - it will be wonderful experience for you and probably give you lots of confidence.

Make sure you let us know how you get in if you decide to do it.

xx

 

[Mercury]

reflexology & arthritis of the feet

Hi
Thank You all for your encouragement,I will let you know how i get on.

many thanks

ambergem