Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health flu-related visitor restrictions have been lifted. However, because babies, especially those who are ill or premature, are at higher risk of serious complications if they get the flu, visitation restrictions are still in place for all Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) until further notice.
Reflexology is the application of pressure, usually to the feet, in order to gain health benefits. Integrative Medicine & Palliative Care specialists at Riley at IU Health offer reflexology as a relaxation technique. Most patients who experience reflexology feel reduced anxiety, depression and pain.
Reflexologists may use their hands or other items, such as a rubber ball or a flat wooden stick, to apply pressure to the feet. The practitioner uses a chart that guides him or her in applying pressure to particular places on your child’s foot. Certain places on the foot correspond to certain organs or systems of the body. When pressure is applied to these places, it can reduce pain and other symptoms.
Reflexology is a noninvasive, hands-on therapy that does not interfere with any medical treatment your child may be undergoing.
Reflexology involves the following steps:
You can expect your child’s reflexology treatment session to last around one hour. Following a treatment session, your child should drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the body.
