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Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 15 (2009) 50
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Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
journal homepage: www.elsevier .com/locate/ctnm
BOOK REVIEW
Louise Keet. The Reflexology Bible, Octopus Publishing GroupLtd. ISBN: 978-1-84181-341-7, Price 12.99
The book has an unfortunate title, raising concerns for both of usabout the use of the word ‘Bible’ and possible negative reactionsfrom the public. The notion that this is a definitive guide is alsoquestionable given the books content and focus. The readershipthis book is directed towards is somewhat difficult to fathom asthere is a lot of emphasis on self-help and nutrition, yet the authorrefers to ‘the client’ in numerous places that implies the text isdirected towards therapists.
There are numerous assertions about the benefits and safety ofreflexology throughout the text but limited discussion of anyresearch evidence or even case study analysis to support theseclaims. For example ‘reflexology helps to open neural pathways’p.71 .and ‘reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infection p. 98.
There are many pictures and images throughout the book,which makes it easy to read but again, these appear to relate toself or family care rather than professional practice. The sectionson anatomy and physiology are not at an adequate level forprofessional therapists and there is no discussion about training,
doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2008.07.006
insurance and only a limited exploration of legal, professionaland ethical approaches to practice beyond a brief comment aboutconfidentiality.
The book would be inadequate as a professional text as it pres-ents reflexology in a somewhat simplistic way. Some of the claimsand assumptions would also make us very cautious about recom-mending this text to the general public as a self-help book.
Peter A. Mackereth*
Supportive Care Services, c/o Living with Cancer Services,Rehabilitation Unit, Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UKUniversity of Derby, Buxton Campus, UK
� Corresponding author. Tel.: þ44 0161 446 8236.E-mail address: [email protected]
Angela GanleySupportive Care Services, c/o Living with Cancer Services,
Rehabilitation Unit, Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK
