Is Reflexology Safe for Everyone?

From the very young to the very old, almost everyone can benefit from receiving reflexology. Some exceptions (absolute contraindications = do not do!) to this include: 

• individuals with a history of blood clots – deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or phlebitis;  

• a recent sprain, break, or injury;  

• open sores, unhealed wounds, and cuts in the area to be worked;  

• contagious infections such as athlete’s foot.  

Some conditions are considered relative contraindications, meaning the client should consult a doctor before receiving reflexology.  These include: 

• Undiagnosed severe or persistent pain 

• Cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure (may be done with a doctor’s written permission) 

• Circulatory issues such as vascular disease of the feet or legs 

• Active gout in the foot or ankle 

• If a condition (e.g. cancer, stroke, heart attack, osteoporosis) is currently being treated by a medical practitioner 

• Severe skin conditions (e.g. psoriasis, severe eczema, or severe acne on the area being treated) 

• The first trimester of pregnancy – if a pregnancy is viable, reflexology is not going to cause harm. However, as many of us know, if the pregnancy is going to be miscarried, it often happens in the first trimester. This can happen for a variety of reasons, and humans tend to look for a cause or something/someone to blame. For this reason, many reflexologists will not treat until the second trimester, but there are some who do work with clients all through their pregnancies.  

The Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC) has guidelines regarding best practices and contraindications. https://www.reflexologycanada.org/en/what-is-a-contraindication/