As a member of the Irish Reflexologists’ Institute Ltd. (I.R.I.L.) I abide by the regulations set out for reflexologists in Ireland as agreed by the I.R.I.L. and the H.S.A. These regulations ensure best practice for professional conduct and treatment of clients by reflexology.
While reflexology is regarded as a safe and non-invasive therapy our regulations require you to get your doctors approval before starting reflexology treatment if you are being treated for certain conditions as outlined below.
In many cases your doctor will give approval for reflexology and you will need to state this during the consultation process. The same permissions are required for any medical doctor you are attending, including G.P., Consultants and Psychologists.
| Heart Conditions | Asthma |
| Blood Clot (Thrombosis) | Diabetes |
| High Blood Pressure | Kidney Infections |
| Low Blood Pressure | Cancer |
| Inflamed Veins (Phlebitis) | Epilepsy |
| Pregnancy in the first trimester | Nerve Pain (e.g. Sciatica) |
| Joint Disorders (Arthritis) | Mental Health Conditions (e.g. Depression/Bipolar) |
Along with the list of health conditions above there are a number of conditions that may prevent or restrict treatment. If any of the conditions listed below apply to you at the time of treatment you need to inform your therapist.
In some cases it will be advised to post-pone your treatment for example if you have a fever or flu symptoms and in other case such as (toenail) fungal infections the area affected can be covered or avoided during treatment.
| Bruising / Swelling (localised) | Under the influence of alcohol/drugs |
| Cuts / Open wounds | Fever or Vomiting |
| Varicose veins | Diarrhoea or Vomiting |
| Skin diseases (e.g. Sunburn/Psoriasis/Eczema) | Contagious or infectious diseases (e.g. fungal/viral/bacterial) |
| Scars | Recent fracture (min. 3 months) |
As per COVID-19 safety measures, reflexology treatment is not permitted if any of the following apply to you at the time of your appointment.
Even if the above do not apply to you on the day of treatment you may still be required to comply with COVID-19 safety measures to ensure the health of both you and your therapist and the wider community.
