Clinical Reflexology: A Guide for Health Professionals

This is a unique textbook of reflexology for students undertaking a full or short course (either at diploma or degree level) in reflexology.

The book will:

critically review the origins and theories of reflexology,

examine the therapeutic relationship and a model of working with patients using reflexology, in a health care setting

explore the therapeutic value of reflexology in terms of its diagnostic, treatment claims and contraindications

critically analyze the role of the reflexologist in relationship to the concepts of healing and holism

identify and discuss key ethical, professional & legal issues related to safeguarding the interest of patients receiving reflexology

review the educational issues related to student programmes, and examine the value and methods of support and supervision for clinical practice.

review recent research and audit activity and discuss methodological issues in asking questions about the efficacy and safety of reflexology

examine the key issues in the integration of reflexology practice and how to best meet the challenges of working with patients and their families in a healthcare context

consider the key areas identified above in reflecting on providing reflexology within specified areas of clinical practice. These will be maternity, palliative care, acute and continuing care, learning difficulties and mental health.

Reviews recent research and audit activity and discusses methodological issues in asking questions about the efficacy and safety of reflexology

Critically evaluates research literature in the field

Examines the key issues in the integration of reflexology practice

Explores the therapeutic value of reflexology, including issues of safety and efficacy

Addresses the educational needs of students, including issues of support and supervision for practice.

Peter is the Clinical Lead for Complementary Therapies (CTs) at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust Manchester and University Reader in Integrated Health at the University of Derby (Buxton Campus). He is a registered nurse, and has worked in intensive care, neurology and oncology. Peter has an MA in Medical Ethics and has completed a PhD project examining reflexology vs. relaxation training for people with MS.

In 2003 the Complementary Therapy team at the Christie received the prestigious Prince of Wales’s Good Practice Award. In 2004 the team won the Dept of Health’s Manchester and Regional Innovations Awards in Long-term Care. In 2005 Peter was given the National Public Servant Award hosted by the Guardian Newspaper. The team is currently working on a number of research and audit projects exploring outcomes for acupuncture, hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, creative imagery/relaxation and reflexology. Peter has published widely and speaks regularly at conferences and study days.