Reflexology gives me a sense of wellbeing that is comforting when I feel overwhelmed by stiffness, pain and negativity, highlights Jacquie Eldridge

Jacquie Elridge, reflexology arthritis, reflexology osteoarthritis, british reflexology associationI have been having reflexology for about a year to help ease my osteoarthritis symptoms and wanted to share my experiences with the Arthritis Digest community.

My symptoms started when I was a teenager, when my left knee began creaking and feeling uncomfortable, particularly on stairs and long walks. Problems gradually increased over the years until I couldn’t walk without limping, which began to affect my back. In my early fifties my left knee was replaced and I was advised that my right knee will probably follow suit.

My fingers and toes have been affected too; I had pain in the joints from my early thirties, which eased after about ten years but left the tell-tale knobbly joints.

In my late forties the base of my thumb joints flared-up and became increasingly problematic, affecting every aspect of my daily life. I couldn’t even rest my hands at night to sleep comfortably.  Last year I had an arthroplasty operation on my right hand which, after nine months, has improved the situation. I am booked in to have the other hand operated on soon.

My husband had received some reflexology as a case-study from a newly practising acquaintance and was so impressed that when a similar opportunity presented itself on our doorstep, he persuaded me to give it a try. Initially I was sceptical and thought I may find it difficult as I am not a great fan of massage and am incredibly ticklish! However, I have at no time felt uncomfortable or awkward during the sessions and have actually been ‘blown away’ by the effects.

I find it quite incredible that when a particular area of my feet is being gently manipulated, I am aware of a sensation in the back of my head (pituitary gland) which apparently is the natural pain relief being released into my system. My reflexologist has shown me how to self-administer such relief by massaging my thumb.

Initially I had reflexology twice a week with Fiona Biggs of Dower House Holistic Therapies as a case study, and this has now been reduced to twice a month, which seems to be as effective as previously.

Reflexology gives me an overall sense of wellbeing that is calming and comforting at times when I feel overwhelmed by stiffness, pain, fragility and negativity. I come away from a reflexology session with a positive mental attitude that sets me up to cope with the bad days.

Click here if you would like to submit your story to Arthritis Digest.

Further information

  • Association of Reflexologists, visit aor.org.uk or tel 01823 351010 (NB the website has a useful tool for finding your nearest reflexologist).
  • British Reflexology Association, visit britreflex.co.uk or tel 01886 821207.
  • The Federation of Holistic Therapists, visit fht.org.uk or tel 023 8062 4350.

arthritis digest magazine, top arthritis blog, arthritis information, iona walton, griffin media solutions, feedspotArthritis Digest Magazine was selected by Feedspot as one of the Top 5 Arthritis Blogs on the internet in 2018.

For more in-depth features, interviews and information, subscribe to Arthritis Digest magazine, a popular title that’s published six times a year. Click here for the digital version or tel 0845 643 8470 to order your had copy. You’ll know what your doctor is talking about, what new drugs are in the pipeline and be up to date on helpful products.