Banish Pain and Lift Your Spirits

Kinesitherapy

Otherwise known as movement therapy, Kinesitherapy uses muscular relaxation techniques, together with physical and passive stretching, to release any tension that may be restricting joint movement.

Kinestherapists specialise in biomechanics and the musculoskeletal system to understand the cause of the symptoms and can help with much more than muscle pain or tension. Chronic pain can be eased as well as tendonitis, bursitis, sprains, lumbago, capsulitis, headaches and neuro or vascular symptoms such as numbness, loss of sensitivity and sciatic pain.

At the first session they will analyse your posture, mobility and strength. This is followed by gentle movements to soften the tissues, using your symptoms as a guide in order to reduce pain and improve joint functionality.

You will be sent home with specific exercises to ensure progression, giving you an active role in your own well-being. Follow up sessions will measure progress and continue to develop exercises to further reduce symptoms.

To avoid confusion, whilst both specialise in the science of movement, Kinesitherapists are different to Kinesiologists. Kinesiologists assess the risks of exercise to your health, provide guidelines for a healthy lifestyle and establish a training programme most suitable to your condition (heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure for instance.) They can also help with a weight loss programme, build muscle and prescribe exercises that are suitable for specific injuries or illness.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a kind of alternative therapy used to heal, but what exactly do you do with the essential oils?

Adding a few drops of oil to your bath will kick start your olfactory sense, enhancing circulation and improving the body’s balance. Vapour inhalation is a great help with sinus or breathing problems. Just place a towel over your head to capture the aroma, add five drops to steaming water and inhale. If you have muscle, headache or stomach pains, add a couple of drops to warm water, soak a flannel, wring it out and apply to the tender area.

Due to their high concentration, essential oils are often supplied with carrier lotions such as shea or cocoa butter and almond oil. When mixed together they can be used to massage away worries, aches and pains.

Peppermint will energise the senses, whereas lavender and chamomile will help you to relax. Bergamot is great for self-esteem, fatigue and stress relief. Feeling agitated or anxious? Try Sandalwood or Patchouli, and if you want to liven up your libido, opt for Ylang Ylang or Rose. Muscle aches and even migraines can be relieved with Eucalyptus and if you are going out to the pub quiz, you might fancy a quick top up of Rosemary to enhance the memory.

Reflexology

Vikki Stevens, a Mobile Holistic Therapist and Reiki Master near Lauzerte explains:

The history of Reflexology goes back some 500 years when the Chinese practiced a form of pressure therapy, similar to Acupuncture. Ancient Egyptians were using similar methods in about 3000 BC, as illustrated in tomb drawings which show them holding and massaging the feet in a particular way.

Credit is given to its re-emergence as a modern day therapy to Dr William Fitzgerald who worked in the USA as a medical specialist. He, together with Dr Edwin Bowers, published a book “Zone Therapy” or “Relieving Pain at Home” from which the modern day practice is founded.

Reflexology is wonderfully relaxing, restorative and nurturing, working on many different pressure points and zones across the foot. It can also be received through the hands and face. It calms the body and mind and slowly cleanses the system.

Feeling peaceful and tranquil after your Reflexology session, you may feel like you are floating off the couch. It can be helpful to people with chronic pain conditions and is particularly pleasurable after a long day on your feet.

A Reflexology Therapy session lasts around 60 minutes which will include a full consultation on your first visit and can be received wherever is most comfortable. 0667 41 62 60.

First published in the March/April 2019 issue of The Local Buzz

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