Pathology for the Reflexologist and the Allied Health Professional
A practical pathology reference for informed, responsible reflexology practice.
Written for reflexologists, reflexology students, and remedial and allied health practitioners who want to strengthen their understanding of disease processes, support informed practice, and recognise when referral to medical or other health professionals is appropriate.
Understanding more supports better practice
This comprehensive guide explains the pathophysiology of common health disorders encountered in clinical practice, helping practitioners and students develop a deeper understanding of the body, its systems and disease processes.
Understand the condition
Accessible explanations of common, and some less common, diseases and disorders organised by body system.
Locate the anatomy
Each body-system chapter begins with an anatomical illustration to provide context for the disorders and reflex areas discussed.
Connect with reflexology
Each body-system chapter pairs an anatomical illustration with a dedicated reflexology chart, helping readers connect underlying anatomy with relevant reflex areas on the feet.
Practise responsibly
The text emphasises professional limitations, appropriate referral, and working alongside medical and other health professionals.
Know more.
Recognise more.
Refer appropriately.
This book is designed to complement, not replace, appropriate medical assessment and treatment. Verena emphasises the importance of referring clients for medical investigation when a condition is unclear, has not been appropriately assessed, or raises concern.
Practitioners are strongly cautioned against advising clients to reduce or discontinue prescribed medication. The book places reflexology within a broader health care context and recognises the value of appropriate collaboration with medical, allied health and complementary practitioners.
A working reference for practice
Each body-system chapter begins with an anatomical illustration, followed by a reflexology chart specific to that system. The book then explores relevant health disorders and provides practical guidance to help readers identify and locate reflex areas using anatomical landmarks and terminology.
Body systems covered
Reflexology charts designed for practical use
Each body-system chapter includes a reflexology chart created specifically to support the material discussed in that section.
The charts provide a clear visual reference for reflexologists, students and others wanting to develop their understanding of reflex areas. Accompanying descriptions explain how to identify and locate these areas using anatomical landmarks and terminology.
Verena James developed the charts from the foundations of the Ingham reflexology charts, incorporating additional reflex areas and points informed by more than thirty-five years of clinical practice.
“Every single person practising reflexology should have a copy of this book for reference.” Annie Spinks R.N.
years of clinical experience within medical and integrated health settings.
About Verena James
Verena James is an experienced reflexology practitioner, lecturer and author whose career has combined clinical practice, education and an enduring interest in both orthodox and complementary approaches to health.
After encountering reflexology and traditional healing practices while travelling through Asia in the late 1980s, Verena trained in reflexology in London in 1991 under Nicola Hall, principal of the Bayly School of Reflexology. On returning to Australia, she continued studies in biomedical science, acupuncture and other complementary therapies.
Her experience working within medical and integrated health settings has shaped her view that reflexologists benefit from understanding disease processes, recognising the limits of their practice, and knowing when collaboration or referral to other health professionals is required.
Verena has also taught reflexology and natural health courses in Australia and internationally, including teaching reflexology in Nepal on behalf of Prisoners Assistance Nepal.
Hands on Heart 2026
Reflexology Association of Australia National Conference
12–13 September 2026 · Perth, Western Australia
Two days of education, professional development, connection and celebration for reflexologists, students and complementary health practitioners, featuring respected Australian and international presenters.
Verena will be launching Pathology for the Reflexologist and the Allied Health Professional at the conference.
Conference details & registrationPathology for the Reflexologist and the Allied Health Professional
by Verena James
ISBN 978-0-6457196-0-4