Guess what? It's the trim sole question again

[Thirdtimelucky]

I already have two pairs of trim sole boots which I wore last year, but they do make your legs work harder. I was actually more concerned that the soles have different densities in different parts of them and if that would be construed as any type of massaging motion, and we all know that anything close to reflexology during pregnancy is a no no. I need to know if I can wear my existing boots or if I need to splash out on some Clarks ones, if already gone onto trim soles website and left a comment stating that "see Gp " is not adequate advice.

[Kaleidoscope]

Hello! Thirdtimelucky, I didn't know reflexology is to be avoided in pregnancy. I haven't had any but found a mum to be pampering service locally that offered massage and reflexology, I have to admit being tempted. Can you tell me more about what the dangers actually are? Never heard of any yet. Wish I could offer advice on the shoe situation. Clark shoes are yummy for feet though, I'm living in some unfashionable ecco shoes and some clarks trainers for work! Both make me look like a fashion reject! xx

[Thirdtimelucky]

Stuff fashion I just wasn't comfort. I'm not sure if having a qualified reflexologist massage your feet is dangerous but would ask your midwife. As I was told no jacuzzis of foot spas as it may have a reflexology effect, and can be detrimental to mum and baby. Like I said before if you are being treated by a qualified practitioner who specialises in this, then I expect that it would be ok as they need insurance, and to have gone through a consultation with you before starting your pampering, but if in doubt ask your midwife. I'd be really interested to know the outcome, as I love having my feet massaged and won't even let hubby touch them atm. 3

[rmh2012]

Hi, attached NHS link reports no known adverse health effects of reflexology for pregnant women, within the caveat of it being an unregulated industry and a lack of consistency on reporting adverse health effects.

nhs.uk/Conditions/reflexolo...

Also advises on what industry associations to look for to ensure best available level of training, that they are insured, and that they commit to keeping skills up to date.

Not sure whether the advice you received was anecdotal? I'd be heading back to person who warned about the reflexology effect and asking source / reason for warning. Not sure about the whole reflexology effect thing, but overheating / spas can be an issue for pregnant women, so they might have been mixing up their warnings??

We walk on our feet every day (don't know about you, but I'm barefoot every opportunity until the snow hits!). Pretty sure just walking on a rough surface hits ALL your reflexology spots daily. I'd be questioning the advice you've been given. And let your hubby give you a foot massage

We all know what pregnancy is like - if you're still trying to wear your old work clothes, your body screams at you that it's no longer comfortable. And I certainly knew when to change my style of walking shoe in my last pregnancy (from thicker soled hiking boots to flat soled boots). If your shoes are risky, they'll be uncomfortable. I seriously doubt there is any unbiased research into the claims of these shoes, let alone research by the manufacturer into adverse health effects, so if you're still not sure, find an alternative shoe to be on the safe side.

R x

[Thirdtimelucky]

It was my midwife that warned me about, jacuzzis as they have a reflexology effect. On mum and baby, also most qualified therapists will be governed by and insured by the FHT the Federation of Holistic Therapists. There is a big difference between treading on uneven ground and persistent pressure being administered by massage, I will be looking into it, but seeing as I've had two previous misscaradges. I don't intend to take any chances.

[Thirdtimelucky]

Ok, I phoned the FHT and the outcome was, that its ok to have reflexology treatments whilst pregnant. Providing that your reflexologist has been through specialised training. Ie successfully complete a course on reflexology in maternity. So ask to see crudentials first, if they are legit they won't mind. And then relax and enjoy! Problem solved. And good news for those who like their feet rubbed.

[kipper]

I think I read a caveat somewhere about the danger of massages with people prone to (i.e. with a history of) blood clots. But then, those people usually know to speak up about their history when they're at high risk anyway (i.e. pregnant). There do seem to be lots of mum-to-be massage services so for most it's probably just fine as it says above.

[Thirdtimelucky]

Reflexology stimulates, points on ones feet to stimulate corresponding organs in the body, it can also be used during labor, if used by someone under qualified for the task on a pregnant woman the effects could result in premature labor, or other complications,

[Thirdtimelucky]

I cannot stress the facts enough that the persons giving the massages, should have pregnancy specific training.

[Thirdtimelucky]

Your therapist should also give you a form to fill in and a consultation before the first treatment begins, that's even with a Swedish massage,