Tag: Reflexology

An overview of natural arthritis treatment

An overview of natural arthritis treatment
Robert Kokoska

Feeling a little itchy, inflamed and stiff in the joints? If you
feel that your condition adheres to the aforementioned
characteristics, then it is possible that you may be suffering
from arthritis. You are just one of the millions of people
around the world who are infected with this condition.

Arthritis involves pain, swelling, and inflammation of joints
which results from infections, metabolic disturbances or other
causes. Fluctuating pain and stiffness follow and can get worse
during occasional flare-ups. Many people who are affected by
this condition regularly complain of flu- like symptoms such as
tiredness and depression. Therefore it is essential to treat
this condition before it gets onto the next stage and halt it in
its tracks.

This article aims to provide an insight into several methods
that can be used to treat arthritis naturally, causing minimal
side effects.

The technique of acupuncture has been used for centuries by the
Chinese. It is based on the theory that inserting hair-fine
needles along certain energy lines can help stimulate energy
flow. It is believed by scientists that the insertion causes the
nervous system to release endogenous, which acts as
pain-relieving chemicals. This can therefore help in reducing
pain.

Alexander technique involves analyzing whole body patterns,
rather then a certain part of the body which contains the
symptom. It is a way of teaching improved stance to help people
stand and move more efficiently. It is designed to help us
maneuver in a better way and eliminate tension which is
responsible for many ailments in the body which rambles on to
give a greater effect during old age.

Aromatherapy is a technique similar to that of massage. It
involves the use of extracted oil from flowers, plants and
trees, and using it in combination with massage, baths and steam
inhalation. The right mixture of essential oils can provide a
number of benefits. It helps in relaxation, pain relief and
decreasing tiredness.

Chiropractic has long been used to give relief from symptoms of
arthritis. This technique aims to increase the mobility and
relieve the body of tension and stress by adjusting the joints
of the spins and the limbs, which demonstrates constrained
movement.

Homeopathy has its roots in history. Developed in the 18
century, it’s a system of remedies based on the belief that
taking tiny amount of natural substances to stimulate body own
defenses against arthritis. It basically involves taking the
whole body into account rather then a specific region.

Osteopathy is a method to treat arthritis which includes the
manipulation of the body to restore normal action and decrease
pain. This methods cant reverse profound damage done to the
joints but can help in improving mobility. However this
treatment is not recommended for those suffering from
osteoporosis or inflamed joints.

Reflexology has been an ancient technique used by the early
Egyptians and Chinese. It involves massage to the feet and the
palm of the hand to help improve the state of the rest of the
body. When massage will be applied to the feet or palm of the
hand, it will generate a warm and comforting sensation. This is
an ideal method for stress management and overall health
maintenance; factors that cause arthritis.

The practice of yoga has been used for a variety of conditions.
It involves a combination of breathing exercises and relaxation
to cope with daily stress and help in circulation and movement
of joints.

The aforementioned techniques have been the most common natural
arthritis treatments. However before any of theses techniques
are implemented, it is essential to see your nearest doctor to
analyze your state and then use these techniques. This is
because each arthritis patient will have requirements that need
to be addressed individually.

About the author:
If you’re serious about eliminating your arthritis, visit this
website: Natural
Arthritis Cure.

If you would like a copy of the free ebook: “Natural Arthritis
Relief” and more arthritis resources, visit this website: Natural Arthritis
Treatment

The Common Types of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a science of healing that has been existing for several hundreds of years now. This is the typical resort of people who want to be free from their daily stressors. People from all walks of life see this as an ultimate solution to their aching muscles and as an escape from the pressure which their busy lifestyle imposes on them. For sure you have already tried one after the other. In reality, there are more than eighty recognized kinds but this article is about to cover ten of the popularly used types of massage therapy. Read on and find out what they are and what they are comprised of.

The first one is called the Swedish massage. This is a typical find in the United States. It is known to be done in such a relaxing and gentle way. With this kind of massage therapy, the masseur or masseuse makes use of the long strokes that are basically made up of the circular and kneading movements on the muscles by using either oil or lotion for a more relaxing effect.

The next one is termed as Aromatherapy. This is the term used simply because the professional masseur or masseuse uses one or more of the known scented plant oils in the execution of the massage session. You will be asked to choose the oil of course. Among the many plant oils, the lavender is one of the most sought-after because of its recognized effect in the alleviation of stress, both physically and emotionally.

Have you heard of the hot stone massage? Well, this is another kind. With this, smooth stones are heated and then placed on particular points of the body which need to loosen up the tight muscles. The stones also help in balancing the energy centers of the body. If you experience muscle tensions, you may request the professional to apply some gentle pressure.

The deep tissue massage is known to heal the deeper muscle layers and the connective tissues. Slow strokes are used across the muscles. The strategy is also referred to as the friction technique. This kind is employed on people who experience painful or chronically tight muscles, repetitive muscle strain, problems with the posture, and to help those who are recuperating from serious injuries.

Then you also have the Japanese massage therapy that is called Shiatsu. This therapy utilizes the localized finger pressure following some rhythmic sequence as what is done in acupuncture. The points are held for about 2 up to 8 seconds because the massage is meant to enhance the energy flow within the body.

Thai massage actually resembles Shiatsu in such a way that it re-aligns the energy in the body by applying the gentle pressure on some points. Stretches and compressions are done as different postures are followed.

The pregnancy massage is perfect for the expecting women. It is crafted to lessen swelling, aches, stress, depression, and anxiety.

Reflexology or foot massage includes the use of pressure as applied to particular areas on the foot. The practitioners believe that every point on the foot is associated with an organ in the body.

Sports massage is used on the athletes who need to get their physical injuries treated and prevented.

The back massage is of course another popular one. It is applied to relieve the tension in the back as caused by improper posture, lifting of heavy objects, and long sitting.

There you go with the types of massage therapy. Choose one which best applies to you!

Thai Massage Therapy at a Closer Look

Massage is said to be therapeutic. It is the science of healing that involves the human touch, so to speak. For several decades now, people have been making use of this option to treat their physical and emotional dilemmas. A lot of them even attest to how beneficial the massage has been to them. Although on the contrary there are likewise a bunch of individuals who believe and emphatically stress out its danger on those who suffer from serious medical issues, no one is able to deny how relaxing the technique can be. One of the most popular types is the Thai massage therapy.

A Bit of a Background
Thai massage is one of the types that has been practiced for a long time. Its existence can be traced to more than a thousand years now. The therapy itself forms part of the well-known area of Thai medicine. It comprises of manipulation, medicinal treatment, ritual, and diet. It is rooted from the belief that each and every disease is caused by a particular imbalance in the energy system within the body. It is geared at the promotion of balance which hence aids in the complete healing and rejuvenation of an individual.

The Techniques Unraveled
To be able to do the overall process of Thai massage, several techniques need to be applied. The pressure involved is actually gentler as compared to the rest of the types of massage therapy. It works well like the Shiatsu. In this kind of therapy, the pressure is applied on the energy channels and they are being treated using two directions.

One more technique is known as blood stopping. It is done by means of applying the pressure on the arteries in the leg or arm for about a minute. The theory that works behind is that of the importance of cutting out the principal source of the circulation that will lead to a heightened pressure. This will then lead to the slowing down of the heart muscle contractions that will eventually tone down the pressure. As the pressure applied on the artery has been let go, a supply of blood goes into the area so that brings the organ to a more relaxed state. This technique is not recommended for use on someone who has diabetes and other heart related issues.

Passive refers to the kind of stretching employed on the patient but he doesn’t move. Only the therapist does. The stretching is done in several stages and at a slow pace. Other techniques involved are hatha yoga and postures.

The Involvement of Reflexology
Reflexology or that which is otherwise known as foot massage is also a part of Thai massage. Reflexology is based on the belief that the points contained on the feet are useful enough to cure the body because every point is somehow related to a specific organ. When the energies are enhanced, the person will be able to establish a deeper connection to the Earth.

Thai massage therapy employs techniques that are to be performed for a longer duration of time. It can usually last up to three hours. It is important to engage a licensed therapist to ensure that everything is done properly. However, you should consult your doctor prior to taking any of these techniques to further avoid the dangers to your health.

MASSASGE THERAPY VS. CHIROPRACTICTIC THERAPY

If you are anything like me, you probably prefer staying away from providers of conventional Western medicine as much as possible and I cannot say that I blame you. Although I have full medical coverage for that you never know when you might need it time of my life, I have not seen any of my Blue Cross doctors in well over ten years, and I hope to continue not seeing them for the rest of my life. Please do not miss understand me and think that I am some sort of superhuman creature who never gets ill. I do have my weak moments of pain and sniffles just like everyone else, or at least everyone else who takes good care of him or herself. So, when my body seems to need a boost, I visit one of my two favorite practitioners of alternative medicine; my massage therapist or my chiropractor.

I know that it all sounds very simple and straight forward but it is, in fact, somewhat challenging at times, because I do not always know which one of these wonderful professional to seek out. So, I often first opt to visit my chiropractor for a good therapeutic session of adjusting and aligning my skeletal structure and then, as an extra bonus to me and my one and only body, I also make an appointment with my massage therapist for some hefty digging and rubbing. Between the two of them, I come out feeling like a million bucks although my finances are sadly depleted. I figure that we, my body and I, are worth it.

Now, you might ask and rightfully so, What is the difference between a massage therapy and chiropractic therapy? Well, I will be happy to tell you:

* Chiropractic Therapy.
– For the most part, chiropractic therapy focuses on the hard tissues such as the spine and other joints for adjusting and realignment. Chiropractors have some training in massage techniques but that is never their first and foremost priority.
– Chiropractors are authorized to make medical diagnosis, order x-rays or blood works.
– Chiropractors cannot prescribe conventional medications but they can sell supplements or homeopathic remedies.
– Chiropractors do not need medical referrals to perform their work.

* Massage Therapy.
– Massage therapists perform wonderful work on the soft body tissues such as the muscles, tendons and ligaments but they have not been trained nor are they licensed to adjust the spine or any other joints.
– Massage therapists may not legally make medical diagnosis, order x-rays or any blood work.
– Massage therapists are not permitted to dispense medications of Western medicine but they can and do provide or recommend alternative herbal remedies.
– Massage Therapists do not required referrals from anyone to conduct their massage sessions.

A highly acclaimed national non-profit magazine recently conducted a study in which more than 34,000 participants in the United States were asked to rate which alternative treatments worked best for their two biggest health problems for the past two years and the overwhelming majority voted just as I would have; for deep tissue massage therapy and chiropractic therapy in equal measures for such conditions as back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, respiratory problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression, insomnia and prostate problems.

Of course, as far as alternative medicine is concerned, one should not discount acupuncture and reflexology for they too are beneficial in their own very special ways.

PPPPP

(Word Count 578)