Reflexologists: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Submitted by: paula
Job Overview Reflexology had been a therapeutic practice since the ancient times. Pressure is applied to the patient’s hand and feet to decrease pain and promote relaxation. Eunice Ingham and Joseph Shelby Riley were against using tourniquets and other instruments to decrease pain felt by the patient. Ingham extensively studied the reflexes and parts of the body. She practiced to use hands which promoted reflexology. Eunice Ingham is known to be the mother of modern reflexology. Reflexologists are persons who massage more specially the feet and hands which stimulate certain parts of the body in pain.
Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required
A person who is aspiring to be a reflexologist needs to know the basics of anatomy or the human body parts. Classes in Anatomy, Biology, Health and Chemistry will be beneficial since these relate to Medical Science. Psychology class is also useful to help them know how to gain the trust of their patients/clients. It is to the advantage of the applicants to have the knowledge in Shiatsu or Swedish massage. Training is essential and the applicants would need to finish a meticulous course of study and practice in Reflexology. This training is being provided by and can be taken from the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR). Some states would require a certification and license before applicants will be allowed to practice reflexology.
Skills and Abilities
The most important skill of a reflexologist is knowing how much pressure should be applied to patient’s feet. They must be sensitive to the needs of their patients. Being friendly and open will help them put their patients at ease, which help in making them relaxed and comfortable. They need to communicate effectively so that they will know what type of treatment is necessary. Decision making is important especially if they have their own shop or a massage clinic. Reading about the latest reflexology methods will also help for skills upgrading.
Experience and knowledge in massage will be an advantage for those who want to be a reflexologist.
Duties
Reflexologist needs to know the medical problem and overall health condition of the patient. It is their duty to make the patient comfortable and know what treatment is appropriate for the patient’s physical condition. It is part of their responsibility to also with the patient’s physician to make sure that the treatment will not conflict the treatment being done by the physician. It is also their duty to be updated with the latest reflexology methods.
Earnings and Job Outlook
Most reflexologists earn at an hourly rate. They usually earn between $30 and $60 hourly, although some practitioners especially new reflexologists earn $15 per hour. In large cities, some reflexologists earn $100 or more per hour. Reflexology is now a popular method of alternative medicine and therapy, since they are convenient and safe. This created many opportunities for those who want to be reflexologists in the future.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.
Latest Articles about: Careers
1: College Mathematics Professors: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook2: Mathematics Teacher: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
3: Medical Assistant: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
4: Mathematicians: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
5: Medical Ethicist: Job Description, Education, Skills, Abilities, Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Word Count: 523 Date: Sat, 30 Oct 2010 Time: 5:13 AM
Previous - Recycling Coordinators: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook | Next - Refuse Collector:Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook