Our competition winner reports back on her course at the Jex Blake School

I was recently fortunate to win a competition organised by FIH.  The prize was a place on a Clinical Skills Course for Reflexologists and Massage Practitioners, organised by the Jex Blake School at the Royal Free Hospital, Hampstead.  This is run by Keith Hunt and Sophie Gooley, who have many years experience working in hospitals such as the Royal Marsden and The Royal Free Hospitals. 

The group was made up of a comfortable number of about ten therapists.  On the first day of the course we looked at how complementary therapies can benefit patients both emotionally and physically, and the responsibilities of the practitioner which included assessing the needs of the patient, infection control, and other aspects of working in a clinical environment.

On the second day we learned about different pathologies, contraindications and limitations to treatment, discussed case studies, and learned how to give treatments to patients with Hickman lines, colostomy bags etc.  We were able to practise on real patients, and several  'traps'  were set by Sophie and Keith; I think I fell into most of them, but doubt that I shall make those mistakes again!

The patients were all regular users of Keith's therapies either as in-patients and out-patients at the Royal Free and all said the therapies made a great deal of difference to how they felt.  In the sessions, they were great actors and actresses!

There was ample opportunity for practical sessions.  One of the main lessons was to adapt the treatment to suit the surroundings, the patient, and the equipment and I will always remember the adage 'Stroke don’t poke' and 'less is more'. Keith and Sophie are very inspiring teachers, obviously committed to their work and I came away from the course feeling very energised and enthusiastic.