Julie asks: I was wondering if the strong tingling sensations in my uterus point could be indicative of pregnancy?

Julie writes:

I am trying to conceive, and while it’s a few days too early to use a pregnancy test, I was wondering if the strong tingling sensations in my uterus point (inner ankles) could be indicative of pregnancy? I can’t find any information on this possible link! Thanks!

Julie – the uterus point (located half way between the “ankle bone” and the heel) gets a lot of activity for us females. Sometimes I will notice a small bump, about the size of a tiny pea, located on the outer edge of the uterus reflex – this is thought to indicate implantation (the point where the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall). As you have probably read in pregnancy books, the symptoms of pregnancy and menses can be very similar: tender breasts, sensation of fullness in the abdomen, food cravings and/or aversions, etc… The tingling you are experiencing could be related to pregnancy, or it could be related to the bleeding portion of your cycle.

Reflexology doesn’t diagnose symptoms or diseases but it does give you an indication of something going on in that part of the body – energetically, physically, psychologically. I’d love to hear what your outcome is though so please drop me a note in the comments section, especially if you get your BFP!

 

Mandy asks: I wondered if you have found any solutions from patients to get rid of the thyroid point showing up through reflexology?

Mandy,

I am not sure I completely understand your question but let me give it a go…

The thyroid reflex area is located on the “neck” of the great toe. See the Kunz’ map here. If this point is sensitive it could be representing a physical, mental or spiritual imbalance in that area of the body. So, if the client doesn’t have a history of thyroid problems nor a history of throat or neck complaints – since they all share the same region – then I would inquire about the other aspects. Does this person have difficulty speaking their mind or are they overly talkative? Energetically this area corresponds to communication and the Throat Chakra. If this area is imbalanced in the energetic sense it can have an effect on one’s ability to communicate. Here is a good overview of the fifth chakra and what it can look like if it is imbalanced.

I hope this answers your question but if it isn’t clear please don’t hesitate to clarify your original question.

 

Reflexology and Pregnancy

This is a very common question:

Is it recommended to have Reflexology during pregnancy?

The short answer: yes. A longer answer would be to look at the various factors going on that could be possible contraindications or to seek out medical advice prior to scheduling a session. Here are some helpful guidelines when determining if Reflexology can be used during pregnancy:

• Can the expecting woman walk and move around? – if she is walking she’s already stimulating the same areas a Reflexologist would work on.
• Has there been a history of medical complications with this pregnancy? – if yes, seek the advice of a the primary care provider (i.e. midwife or obstetrician) prior to going for a session.
• Is the Reflexologist trained and does he/she have experience working with clients during the childbearing year? – some States and regions have no requirements for someone to hang out a shingle and charge for “reflexology.” It would be best to check and make sure the Reflexologist actually has appropriate training and experience before booking an appointment.

For more information about Reflexology and the expecting woman see Reflexology and Your Pregnancy.

 

Reflexology and the Elderly

This person inquires about Reflexology for the Elderly:

My 84 year old Mother lives with me and I would like to know if you work with the elderly?

Yes I have worked with the elderly. Reflexology is actually very stimulative to persons who have lost some of their mobility in older age. It improves circulation and helps to boost the immune system by working the lymphatics in the feet.

Multiple studies have shown the benefits of Reflexology for conditions such as arthritis, falling and blood pressure, and cancer.

 

Reflexology and Breast Cancer

This question came in asking about breast cancer and reflexology:

Hi there Amy
It would be great to read more articles like the one on breast cancer and reflexology and other interesting facts or hints and tips.

Reflexologists have been working with women diagnosed with breast cancer for some years now. In fact, the University of Michigan has been researching the effects of Reflexology treatments for this disease.

Researchers at Michigan State University are finding that many women who are receiving chemotherapy while in the late stages of breast cancer are turning to a complementary therapy known as reflexology to help them cope.

In a pilot study, researchers from MSU’s College of Nursing tested three different complementary therapies – reflexology, guided imagery and reminiscence therapy, in which women recall times in their lives when they’ve met and overcome challenges. Of those three, reflexology proved to be the most effective. – Reflexology helps women receiving chemo in late-stage breast cancer

Professor Dr. Gwen Wyatt, who is running the MSU study, was a keynote speaker at the Reflexology Association of America’s Conference in May 2008 held in Portland, Maine. She presented some of the work she has been doing – uniting Reflexology practitioner with breast cancer patients.

 

Reflexology for back pain?

A request for information on Reflexology helping with back pain:

I’m 18 weeks pregnant and my back has been killing me, wondering if this may help?

In a study published by the Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal titled “Reflexology in the management of low back pain: a pilot randomised controlled trial” [Complement Ther Med. 2008 Feb;16(1):3-8. Epub 2007 Jun 27, PMID: 18346622] results from the study indicated “reflexology may have a positive effect on LBP (lower back pain).” Participants in the program received 40 minute Reflexology sessions for six consecutive weeks.

Want more information on receiving Reflexology during pregnancy? Visit Reflexology and Your Pregnancy.

 

Welcome to Ask a Reflexologist!

I am a board certified Reflexologist through the American Reflexology Certification Board. This blog will answer some common, and not so common, questions about Reflexology. Feel free to submit a comment with any questions you have on Reflexology!