Positive Health Online

Adrian Seager writes from his 15 years experience as a Reflexology Practitioner and Tutor. He focuses his book on aspects of health care, relevant to reflexologists and other complementary therapists, with a view to furthering their professional development. He also targets the public concerning health maintenance – as distinct from the reaction to disease. His book fulfils these criteria.

It is a comprehensive book, well-written in reader-friendly style with excellent illustrations. The chapters are clear and concise, and there are reliable links to more detailed information – making it a good reference book

The first chapter summarizes the background to some current health care practices – in a wider context. He describes pioneers of mainstream medicine and their achievements but challenges some current medical practices – justifiably I think.

Readers are reminded that Hippocrates – regarded as the founder of medicine – lived some 2,000 years after therapies such as Acupuncture and a form of Reflexology were practised. In 2,500 BC Egyptian physicians were using antibiotics, and in the first century AD surgery was being carried out in China. It introduces Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine. Therefore, who are the real founders of medicine?

Techniques for loosening the foot and ankle should interest Reflexologists and other bodyworkers. The term ‘concrete foot’ is what a foot feels like when patients are extremely stressed. Such rigidity restricts circulation and impairs effectiveness of treatment. Techniques for alleviating this problem are clearly illustrated – and go beyond what Reflexologists are usually taught.

An introduction to Nutrition has comprehensive sections covering vitamins and minerals – their food sources as well as signs and symptoms of deficiencies. Reflexologists do not prescribe, but it is irresponsible to ignore serious nutritional deficiencies – therefore referrals become necessary. It also covers common Herbal remedies, Bach Flower Remedies, Bush Flower Remedies and Tissue Salts. This chapter helps raise levels of awareness and could inspire people to take up further training. On the subject of energy, it describes how environmental energies affect the human energy system. It explains how our frantic lifestyles are in conflict with the rhythms of nature.

There is comprehensive information and illustrations concerning the chakras. Illustrations of meridian and acupressure points, relative to Reflexology, provide a good working reference and includes Patient Record Forms.

Dermatology interests most readers – especially bodyworkers. A comprehensive account of common skin conditions and their treatment has excellent illustrations.

Introducing the subject of research, the author suggests it should concentrate on why and how a therapy works – rather than if it works. He maintains outcomes are already known, but cynics ignore them. He presents two reasons for research:
•    To advance our knowledge and understanding;
•    To present the outcome in a clear, concise form so that others can produce the same or a very similar outcome by replicating this.

Key issues are discussed – including pitfalls that hinder rigorous research. Controlling non-specific effects that gives a control group what they assume is Reflexology, creates difficulties. Working inappropriate reflex points to help conditions introduces distortion. This is because this method can improve circulation, influence tissue cells and bring improvement in health. It poses the problem of finding a suitable substitute, because Reflexology is now so well known.

Basic requirements of research projects are covered. Various techniques used by Reflexologists are listed, and need to be recognized for their therapeutic value. It is a thought-provoking chapter for anyone interested in this subject.

The final chapter deals with strokes, describing the terrible impact they have on patient’s lives – physically and emotionally. There are accounts of different kinds of stroke. Each account has clear illustrations showing the cause, and also its effects on the brain.

An appendix details an audit of stroke patients that the author has treated. These are thorough accounts concerning four patients, who all showed increased mobility and improved quality of life. He wants to encourage more exhaustive research.

I enjoyed this book. It is a reliable and interesting guide. I recommend it wholeheartedly