Reflexology is a therapeutic foot massage that aids relaxation and rebalances the body. It revolves around the understanding that there are reflex points on the feet that relate to the structure and function to various parts of the body. Applying pressure to these reflexes using gentle massage may influence the state of the body in many ways.

Gout is a condition which occurs when the metabolism becomes defective causing uric acid crystals to build up in the joints, most commonly around the big toe. It is another form of arthritis which can be intensely painful. These crystals may be present for years without you knowing, but on occasions, they can trigger an attack of gout.

The kidneys are the organs that are in charge of uric acid production so during a reflexology treatment I will work on the kidney point and the adrenal glands as well as circulation. I will pay particular attention to the urethra, bladder and any other organ points that indirectly support kidney function. Reflexology can also be used to break up uric acid crystal deposits that are found in the area of the foot that relate to the kidneys.

Generally, reflexology puts the body into a deep state of relaxation which then stimulates your own body’s healing system to become more active. This in itself has the potential to influence the natural healing process. Also, the manipulation of the foot during treatment may help to relieve foot tension and the adhesion’s that form when inflammation is present, allowing greater movement.

Reflexology has the potential to assist in the recovery of gout but it is not a substitute for the lifestyle changes necessary to overcome this painful condition. Although I am not trained in nutrition we can discuss your diet and lifestyle in order to find some small workable changes that may need to happen in order for you to maintain your health.

What you can do to help:
• Foot bath in cool water – add Epsom salts.
• Cut out red meat, alcohol, dairy, sugar, processed foods.
• Drink lots of water.
• Add bicarb of soda to your water twice a day. (This makes uric acid more soluble making it easier to flush through the kidneys)
• Drink a tsp of apple cider vinegar twice a day in water (I recommend Braggs unfiltered and unpasteurised)

Please note, a reflexology treatment will be too painful during an attack of gout but it is perfectly safe when the feet can be comfortably touched just before or after an attack.

Contact me today if you would like any more information about reflexology or any of the other treatments I offer.