Trick or treat? Maternity reflexology

Published on Friday 7 August 2009 14:14

What is it?

Reflexology is a foot treatment involving massage to reflex points on the feet. These areas correspond to all the various parts and organs of the body and are interconnected by meridian lines carrying chi, or energy. It is thought that blockages of these lines can lead to physical, mental or emotional problems, and by stimulating the reflex points on the feet the energy flow can be restored. In pregnancy, reflexology can be used for a variety of common problems.

Strip off or cover up?

Clothes can stay on, but shoes and socks come off. Don't worry if you have smelly feet, as they get a good wipe down first.

How does it work?

The therapist goes over the whole foot area using a variety of strokes and massage techniques, from the toes to the heels and ankles. It's not tickly, but relaxing. Sometimes problem areas can be picked up, for example Georgie, my therapist, identified from the texture of the corresponding areas of my feet that I was suffering from back pain and shoulder pain. Massaging the feet is said to help alleviate the discomfort. Georgie also paid attention to parts of the feet relating to water-retention and hormones, but avoided putting pressure on the uterus area. This is only done to induce labour.

Does it work?

Afterwards, my big, swollen feet looked almost back to normal and my whole body felt generally much more relaxed and chilled out.

Who is it for?

Pregnant women, obviously, ideally starting a course of treatment from ten weeks before the due date in order to get the body primed for labour – although treatments are not necessary every week. After birth, reflexology is said to restore energy, balance hormones and promote lactation. But anyone can have general reflexology.

How much is it?

35 for one hour.

Georgie McCulloch Reflexology, Soma, 21 Queen Charlotte Street, Edinburgh (0131-553 3388, www.reflexology-edinburgh.com, www.somauk.com)