The South African Reflexology Society

07/05/2025

30/04/2025

Find a Registered Therapeutic Reflexologist for pain relief.
Visit www.sareflexology.org.za ; www.ahpcsa.co.za

#

A new piece of research indicates that reflexology is beneficial for pain following total knee replacement surgery (TKR).
TKR can be an extremely painful experience post surgery and high doses of pain relieving medication is usually given to control it.
In this study there were 50 patients in each group - reflexology vs control. Both groups were administered pain relieving medications, although the intake of those meds were not directly measured for the individuals during the experimental procedure.

Rather interestingly the researchers suggests that, the right foot decreases activation of the sympathetic nervous system whilst the left foot activates the parasympathetic nervous system, thus affecting the patient's pain and anxiety levels. An interesting suggestion, but do remember that we have no evidence to that effect in the research literature.
As a result of their assumption, they provided 20 minutes of reflexology to the right foot and 10 minutes to the left foot. Five minutes was dedicated to massage of the foot, pre and post reflexology, whilst the remaining time was given to stimulating the reflex points related to pain and anxiety.

Let's take a closer look.
a). there is no evidence that the left/right feet differ in terms of sympathetic/parasympathetic activity.
b). the researcher suggests there are points for pain and anxiety, but again, there is no evidence of specific points in the literature and we should bear in mind that we are all different in terms of our perception of pain, which is a very subjective experience.
c). it would be helpful for any ongoing research and replication, if the researchers had indicated where on the feet they applied the reflexology stimulus.
d). the natural course of events suggests that the farther away from a surgical procedure one is, the more likely it is that pain will decrease and mobility will increase.
e). there may be non-specific effects from the additional care and concern provided by the attending reflexologist/nursing staff which may have had an impact on improving anxiety levels.

Overall this is an interesting piece of research that suggests a beneficial effect on pain, but more importantly on mobility. Early mobilisation following TKR is important for the greater long term benefit of the patient.

Dr Jackie James recently completed her DProf on reporting research in reflexology which adds more structure. Without knowing the protocol involved, the points reflected through the feet, we cannot replicate this research or progress it further.

So, as a researcher and a patient who has experienced a TKR, I would suggest you err on the side of caution.

We are a long way from agreeing on what impacts pain in reflexology. We know we can alleviate that pain in 'some' individuals and that ongoing support with reflexology will bring about changes in the nervous system, but pain is very much a personal experience and we would do well to remember, there is 'no one size fits all approach'.

A good paper, with some good evidence, but not necessarily strong evidence.
https://dergipark.org.tr/en/download/article-file/4324912

01/04/2025

🌿 Reflexology for Neuropathic Pain Relief 🌿
Reflexology has been shown to reduce neuropathic pain and significantly increase quality of life for those suffering from nerve-related conditions. This non-invasive therapy can offer relief and improve overall well-being.
✅ For optimal care, choose an AHPCSA-registered Therapeutic Reflexologist.
Find a registered practitioner near you: 🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/

30/03/2025

Files Attachment Size 52224gon5950.pdf 10.97 MB Comment by Friday, June 6, 2025 - 12:00 Share this page Facebook Twitter WhatsApp

20/03/2025

🌿 REFLEXOLOGY for Neuropathic Pain Relief 👣
THERAPEUTIC REFLEXOLOGY has been shown to reduce neuropathic pain and significantly increase quality of life for those suffering from nerve-related conditions. This non-invasive therapy can offer relief and improve overall well-being.
✅ For optimal care, choose an AHPCSA-registered Therapeutic Reflexologist.
Find a registered practitioner near you: 🔗 https://sareflexology.org.za and https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/

🌿 Reflexology for Neuropathic Pain Relief 🌿
Reflexology has been shown to reduce neuropathic pain and significantly increase quality of life for those suffering from nerve-related conditions. This non-invasive therapy can offer relief and improve overall well-being.
✅ For optimal care, choose an AHPCSA-registered Therapeutic Reflexologist.
Find a registered practitioner near you: 🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/

17/03/2025

👣 Reflexology for Balance & Proprioception 👣
Did you know that reflexology stimulates over 7,000 nerve endings in the feet? This stimulation enhances proprioception—the body's ability to sense movement and position—helping to improve balance and overall stability.
✅ Choosing an AHPCSA-registered Therapeutic Reflexologist ensures you're receiving care from a qualified professional.
Find a registered practitioner near you: 🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/

17/03/2025

Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease caused by a buildup of fluid in the eye, leading to optic nerve damage. Research has shown that reflexology can significantly decrease intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma, helping to support eye health naturally.
✅ Remember, choosing an AHPCSA-registered Therapeutic Reflexologist ensures you’re receiving care from a qualified professional.
Find a registered practitioner near you: 🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/

07/03/2025

"Dear Future Me,
Potch Academy offers a range of therapeutic qualifications that I'm interested in, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, and Massage, but I'm not sure how to choose.

So, I've decided to attend the Holiday Programme from 2-4 April 2025 to check it out for myself!

Follow this link to join me:"
https://forms.gle/Djg1GRdbD7D1etNX6

18/01/2025

Each Therapeutic Reflexology treatment is specifically designed to meet your unique needs—there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. Our treatment process includes:
🔹 A comprehensive case history
🔹 Reflexology on the feet, hands, ears, and body
🔹 Lifestyle and nutrition advice tailored to you
🔹 Referral to other healthcare professionals, if necessary
If you’re looking for a qualified AHPCSA registered professional to guide you on your journey to wellness, visit the link below:
🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/
Take a step towards personalised care and better health today! 🌱

16/01/2025

Therapeutic Reflexology is a holistic, non-invasive therapy that focuses on stimulating reflexes on the feet, hands, ears, and body to promote balance and restore normal bodily function. This therapy offers a natural and effective way to improve overall wellness.
Benefits of Reflexology:
✅ Creates balance in the body
✅ Reduces stress and anxiety
✅ Improves organ function
If you are seeking a qualified practitioner for Therapeutic Reflexology, you can find one in your area by visiting the link below:
🔗 https://ahpcsa.co.za/practitioners/
Take a step towards better health today! 🌱

31/12/2024

A special New Year‘s Wish from TSARS Executive Committee.

We look forward to a great 2025 with all of our reflexology colleagues, working together and standing together so we can achieve so much more.

Best wishes to you and your family in the New Year!

The South African Reflexology Society 👣

25/12/2024

Dear members and friends,
During this Festive Season, we wish you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

Note: Our offices will re-open on 14 January 2025.
Feel free to leave a voicemessage or email, and we'll get back to you when we return.

Peace, joy & love

TSARS Exec Committee