Reflexology by Julia Pomeroy, Reflexologist

Julia Pomeroy is a Registered Nurse in two states, Pennsylvania and Virginia. She graduated from Philadelphia County Community College in 1992. She joined the Association of Certified Rehabilitation Nurses after working at Moss Rehabilitation Hospital in Philadelphia. Her journey in nursing continued into Skilled Nursing Facilities where she worked with the elderly and became a specialist in assessment and reimbursement.

Julia’s interest in Reflexology began in 2005 after she read about complementary medicines. Reflexology captured her heart as she knew it could alleviate pain, suffering and be non invasive.

In 2005 she enrolled in the International Academy of Advanced Reflexology where she studied from 2005 to 2006 with Professor Lorraina J. Telepo, founder of the Academy. Because of the Academy’s standards, Julia has a diploma in Medical Reflexology granted from the only post secondary school recognized by the United States Department of Education to issue a diploma for Medical Reflexology.

Julia is currently enrolled in Clayton College of Natural Health and is studying herbology. She is a practicing Reiki Master.

What is Reflexology?

The most scientific definition is from Professor Lorraina J. Telepo of the International Academy of Advanced Reflexology: Professor Telepo states:

“Reflexology is a complementary, biological, blended, integrative health science through which an exercise pressure is applied to reflex areas, formed by 7,200 nerve endings in each hand and each foot, encouraging improved instruction to each and every single organ, gland and part of the body, thus persuading the body to biologically correct, strengthen and reinforce itself.”

As a registered nurse, I know that scientific language can confuse people. In more simple language, here is my descriptive answer:

The feet are a microcosm of the entire body. When pressure techniques are applied to reflex areas of the feet, via thumbs and fingers, the corresponding parts of the body are affected. Tender reflexes may indicate that the corresponding body part is not receiving adequate instruction from the nerves. Reflexology helps to relieve many health problems in a natural, non-invasive manner. We are subjected to many types of stress in any given time. Some stress is good, but stress that is not good takes a heavy toll on the human body. Reflexology helps to restore natural balance. When I perform reflexology, I am using techniques that improve nerve, blood and lymphatic supply. The nerves provide instruction for the body to carry out its duties and, as such, if the nerves are improved, the instructions to the body are improved.

Historically, in the USA, it was William H. Fitzgerald, MD who introduced reflexology in the early 1900’s. And, it was Eunice D. Ingham, and those who studied under her, who further developed reflexology. The practice of reflexology has gone on for centuries in other countries. Reflexology is a complementary health science. A reflexologist works with doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists and many other health care practitioners.

Reflexology is not intended to replace any health care modality and is not a substitute for medical care. There are many people who choose to use reflexology without other health care modalities. In either case, a reflexologist should provide information to the person they are treating about their findings.

Reflexology has been beneficial for:

• Headaches and migraines

• Pain associated with Menstrual Cycles

• Constipation and IBS

• Insomnia and Fatigue

• Respiratory ailments

• Cancer

• Pain and general discomfort

• Expediting the healing process after surgery

Everyone can benefit from Reflexology! There are no contraindications! Amazing! This health science has existed since ancient times, has been taught throughout other countries and was finally brought to the USA in the early 1900’s. There are many articles, books and videos about reflexology. There is much scientific research which confirms the positive effects of reflexology. The National Institutes of Health has a branch for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) research and have included reflexology. Many Nursing schools are doing their own research on reflexology.

For information regarding a health condition and reflexology I suggest you search using REFLEXOLOGY + the name of the medical condition. There are far too many to list here! I do provide my clients with copies of articles and the latest research in my office. You are welcome to peruse my newsletter.