Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Course Descriptions - Reflexology Diploma Program

(One clock hour equals 50 minutes of instruction)

#115 Reflexology: Theories and Application- 67 Clock Hours

Prerequisite: None

In Reflexology: Theories and Application, the student is introduced to beginning, intermediate, and advanced concepts in Foot and Hand Reflexology and their practical application. Classes consist of theory lecture, demonstration, and paired practice. During the supervised practicum section of the course, students will have a chance to both give and receive Reflexology in order to master the techniques taught.

Topics include:

Directional Anatomy - Understanding direction in the human body

Kinesiology and Muscle Action - Understanding how muscles move, with a special emphasis on feet and hand movement

Draping and Support Bolstering- Making clients as warm, comfortable, and secure as possible during Reflexology treatments

Client Assistance - How to assist clients safely on and off the treatment table/chair

Benefits of Reflexology - Why Reflexology is beneficial to health and how it effects each system of the body

Professional Development and Ethics- Students will explore concepts of professional ethics and image, scope of practice, sexual issues, informed consent, right of refusal, and transference and countertransference issues. Emphasis is placed on the proper handling of situations that may arise.

Indications and Contraindications for Reflexology- Health conditions: when it is beneficial or harmful to treat with Reflexology.

The Use of Tables, Chairs, and Other Supplies - Equipment for Reflexology

Self Care for the Therapist- Techniques a therapist can do to increase personal health and flexibility and care for the hands.

Body Mechanics/Ergonomics for Career Longevity-The study of body posture for increased physical endurance and safety.

Hygiene/Sanitation/Safety- The study of germs and pathogens where students will learn techniques to minimize and or eliminate the spread of illness. Universal precautions and CDC guidelines are explored. Safety precautions for client and therapist including fall hazards and fire safety are discussed.

Reflexology Techniques-Basic techniques, including Thumb Walking, Finger Walking, Thumb Hook-In, Thumb Back-Up, Reflex Rotation/ Pivot Point, Flexing on a Point, & Relaxation Techniques will be discussed and practiced. Students will also be given a full Reflexology routine to allow them to treat clients as soon as the routine is learned.

Reflexology Zone Theory and Reflex Points: Students learn the five zones of the feet, hands, great toe, and thumb and their corresponding somatic referral zones. Students additionally will learn the location of each of the somatic reflex points on the feet and hands and which technique is best used to treat each point. The Reflexology Consultation and Client/Patient Assessment- Students learn to do an in depth health history intake, a visual assessment, a palpatory assessment, and range of motion assessment to allow the them to develop treatment plans for their clients. Students also learn and practice standard medical documentation procedure.

Special Populations: Students study Reflexology for clients with pathological conditions.

History of Reflexology: Students study the history of Reflexology and trace it back to its roots in Ancient Egypt and China.

Case Studies: Students perform case studies to improve clinical skills.

#116 - Small Business Management for Reflexology - 16 Clock Hours

Prerequisite: None

Students are introduced to the basics of small business management and identify the necessary steps in establishing a Reflexology Practice. Emphasis is placed on business planning, budgeting, bookkeeping, résumé development, and marketing skills.

#117 - Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology for Reflexology - 18 Clock Hours

Prerequisite: None

Students are introduced to basic form and function in all of the body systems. Basic Kinesiology and pathology are also introduced. Emphasis is placed on anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the feet and hands, but is briefly covered in all the major body systems. HIV and community health issues will also be addressed. Classwork includes lecture, workbook, and video cassettes. Topics include: Medical Terminology/Directional Anatomy, Integumentary System, Skeletal System and Joints, Muscular System, Nervous System, Endocrine System, Cardiovascular System, Lymphatic System and Immunity.

Respiratory System, Digestive System & Nutrition, Urinary System, and the Reproductive System.

#118 - Clinical Rotations for Reflexology - 23 Clock Hours

(Student performs 10 Reflexology Treatment Sessions):

Prerequisite: Approval from Instructor

Students receive hands-on experience with the general public by treating 20 clients with Reflexology in the Student Clinic or in the classroom. Students receive practice in technique, client scheduling, client service and communication skills, bookkeeping, and business management. Students also receive certification in Adult CPR and First Aid through the American Red Cross.

Next Page: Required Textbooks - Reflexology

 

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