Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips called "tender points." People with this syndrome may also experience sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and other symptoms. Available data suggest that the number of persons aged 18 and older in the United States with fibromyalgia is approximately 3.7 million. It primarily occurs in women of childbearing age, but children, the elderly, and men may also be affected.
Although the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, researchers have several theories about what triggers the disease. Some scientists believe that the syndrome may result from an injury or trauma. This injury may affect the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia may be associated with changes in muscle metabolism, such as decreased blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased strength. Others believe the syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent such as a virus in susceptible people, but no such agent has been identified.
Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms mimic those of other diseases. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed criteria for fibromyalgia that physicians can use in diagnosing the disease. According to ACR criteria, a person is considered to have fibromyalgia if he or she has widespread pain for at least 3 months in combination with tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites.
Treatment of fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive approach. The physician, physical therapist, and others in the medical support system, as well as the patient, may all play an active role in the management of fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, improves muscle fitness and reduces muscle pain and tenderness. Heat and massage may also give short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood, improve quality of sleep, and relax muscles. People with fibromyalgia may benefit from a combination of exercise, medication, physical therapy, and relaxation.
sâmbătă, 3 iulie 2010
The Art Of Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology foot massage is the art of touch therapy wherein pressure is applied to various areas in the feet.
It dates back to ancient times, as the Chinese have discovered that nerves in the feet are connected to various internal organs, and hence problems in these organs can be cured by applying pressure on the nerve endings.
Reflexology foot massage has then been recognized as a non-invasive and simple procedure that allows stimulation to internal organs.
There is a chart that is followed by all therapists and practitioners of reflexology foot massage, which indicates which organs of the body, are connected to different areas in the foot.
If extreme pain or discomfort is felt when pressure is applied to areas on the foot, it helps the therapist determine the cause of the problem even if there are no other symptoms that present itself. It is recommended for anyone, from children to seniors, as a safe, holistic method of treatment.
Reflexology foot massage is widely known for its effectiveness. Here are some of its numerous benefits:
It brings about equilibrium and achieves a state of homeostasis for the body, wherein all systems are functioning properly and effectively.
Reflexology is helpful in curing a number of problems, such as headaches, fatigue, sleep disorders, appetite problems, asthma, digestive problems, sinusitis, and constipation.
Overall improved blood circulation, which also brings about strengthened immune system as it allows free flow of the lymph fluids throughout the body.
Relieves pain and stiffness brought about by sports injuries, exercise, or improper posture.
Patients will feel a heightened sense of relaxation and well-being emotionally and mentally as a result of reflexology foot massage.
You will be able to eliminate toxins in your system after a massage, and drinking water after your session will be a great help in doing so.
One of the best things about reflexology foot massage is that it has no side effects. However, some precautions should be taken in certain cases:
The massage should only be done after at least one hour following a meal.
Pregnant women, those menstruating, and those who are experiencing internal bleeding are advised not to do reflexology foot massage.
Within one hour of the reflexology foot massage session, it is not recommended to wet your feet with cold water as this will result in tightening of pores and compacting of the muscles to keep the body warm.
You can also enjoy the benefits of reflexology foot massage regularly even if you are not experiencing any pain or physical discomfort you want to cure.
Many patients do it as they enjoy the feeling of relaxation after each session, and because it also promotes overall well-being and healthy circulation.
In fact, doing so regularly will greatly contribute to your internal and mental health, because it ensures that your internal systems are healthy. Reflexology foot massage is one of the best ways you can take care of yourself today.
It dates back to ancient times, as the Chinese have discovered that nerves in the feet are connected to various internal organs, and hence problems in these organs can be cured by applying pressure on the nerve endings.
Reflexology foot massage has then been recognized as a non-invasive and simple procedure that allows stimulation to internal organs.
There is a chart that is followed by all therapists and practitioners of reflexology foot massage, which indicates which organs of the body, are connected to different areas in the foot.
If extreme pain or discomfort is felt when pressure is applied to areas on the foot, it helps the therapist determine the cause of the problem even if there are no other symptoms that present itself. It is recommended for anyone, from children to seniors, as a safe, holistic method of treatment.
Reflexology foot massage is widely known for its effectiveness. Here are some of its numerous benefits:
It brings about equilibrium and achieves a state of homeostasis for the body, wherein all systems are functioning properly and effectively.
Reflexology is helpful in curing a number of problems, such as headaches, fatigue, sleep disorders, appetite problems, asthma, digestive problems, sinusitis, and constipation.
Overall improved blood circulation, which also brings about strengthened immune system as it allows free flow of the lymph fluids throughout the body.
Relieves pain and stiffness brought about by sports injuries, exercise, or improper posture.
Patients will feel a heightened sense of relaxation and well-being emotionally and mentally as a result of reflexology foot massage.
You will be able to eliminate toxins in your system after a massage, and drinking water after your session will be a great help in doing so.
One of the best things about reflexology foot massage is that it has no side effects. However, some precautions should be taken in certain cases:
The massage should only be done after at least one hour following a meal.
Pregnant women, those menstruating, and those who are experiencing internal bleeding are advised not to do reflexology foot massage.
Within one hour of the reflexology foot massage session, it is not recommended to wet your feet with cold water as this will result in tightening of pores and compacting of the muscles to keep the body warm.
You can also enjoy the benefits of reflexology foot massage regularly even if you are not experiencing any pain or physical discomfort you want to cure.
Many patients do it as they enjoy the feeling of relaxation after each session, and because it also promotes overall well-being and healthy circulation.
In fact, doing so regularly will greatly contribute to your internal and mental health, because it ensures that your internal systems are healthy. Reflexology foot massage is one of the best ways you can take care of yourself today.
Alternative Remedies For Anxiety
The Mayo Clinic is a source of very reliable, scientific study based information about mainstream medicine; and in a recent article, they have highlighted information about alternative remedies / supplements for treating anxiety.
Although it is not fully understood how these herbal supplements work to reduce feelings of anxiety and also side effects and varying degrees of efficacy on different people, the following supplements are seen to relieve symptoms of anxiety:
Kava: This herb is known to aid feelings of relaxation without sedation or engendering feelings of drowsiness. Those with liver problems should use this supplement will caution however, or if you drink alcohol each day or if you are on certain medications that impact the liver.
Valerian: This supplement is known to aid sleep and have a sedative effect. It is also used to treat anxiety though its efficacy in this respect is not fully established.
B Vitamins: B vitamins are essential for a number of bodily processes, and in particular the B vitamin inositol, is known to impact the production of certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and thereby help in curbing feelings of anxiety.
All supplements should be cleared with a doctor and one should make sure that they are safe and won’t cause any reaction with other medications.
Although it is not fully understood how these herbal supplements work to reduce feelings of anxiety and also side effects and varying degrees of efficacy on different people, the following supplements are seen to relieve symptoms of anxiety:
Kava: This herb is known to aid feelings of relaxation without sedation or engendering feelings of drowsiness. Those with liver problems should use this supplement will caution however, or if you drink alcohol each day or if you are on certain medications that impact the liver.
Valerian: This supplement is known to aid sleep and have a sedative effect. It is also used to treat anxiety though its efficacy in this respect is not fully established.
B Vitamins: B vitamins are essential for a number of bodily processes, and in particular the B vitamin inositol, is known to impact the production of certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and thereby help in curbing feelings of anxiety.
All supplements should be cleared with a doctor and one should make sure that they are safe and won’t cause any reaction with other medications.
Ideas For Natural Air Fresheners
In a bid to rid our homes of unnecessary chemicals, we could well be making use of natural produce such as baking soda and vinegar for cleaning.
Another thing you can do to pare down the use of artificial products and chemicals in your home is to make use of Natural Air Fresheners: this obviates the need to get those pressurized cans into the house, which release harmful CFCs and create unnecessary waste.
You can make your own natural air fresheners using Essential Oils right at home that can help to spread wonderful natural fragrances, improve the mood, deodorize the home (think bathrooms and closets); and also in some cases provide allergic relief.
Essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, geranium, mint, sandalwood, citronella, and frankincense are good choices for making your own natural air freshener.
You can use these in two simple ways to make your house smell fresh and fragrant:
Use a diffuser. You can use one that uses a candle to heat the water in which the essential oils have been mixed or you can use an electric diffuser.
Mix the essential oils with water (preferably distilled) in a spray bottle and use as and where required around the house.
Another thing you can do to pare down the use of artificial products and chemicals in your home is to make use of Natural Air Fresheners: this obviates the need to get those pressurized cans into the house, which release harmful CFCs and create unnecessary waste.
You can make your own natural air fresheners using Essential Oils right at home that can help to spread wonderful natural fragrances, improve the mood, deodorize the home (think bathrooms and closets); and also in some cases provide allergic relief.
Essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, geranium, mint, sandalwood, citronella, and frankincense are good choices for making your own natural air freshener.
You can use these in two simple ways to make your house smell fresh and fragrant:
Use a diffuser. You can use one that uses a candle to heat the water in which the essential oils have been mixed or you can use an electric diffuser.
Mix the essential oils with water (preferably distilled) in a spray bottle and use as and where required around the house.
vineri, 11 iunie 2010
Alternative Pain Relief for Children
A child in pain is difficult for any parent to bear; and there is the temptation to make that pain go away by whatever means available.
However the recent massive recall of children’s pain medications can make anyone doubt the safety of mainstream pharmaceutical formulations.
However it is only natural that many of the alternative therapies that adults choose for pain management and relief may be viewed with some concern when it comes to children.
For instance is it safe for children to be subjected to complementary therapies such as acupuncture and hypnosis?
Integrative therapy does show that it is possible to safely offer certain alternative therapies to children as well. The following alternative therapies for pain relief in children could be considered:
Biofeedback
Guided Imagery
Hypnosis
Massage
Art Therapy
These can be used by themselves or in conjunction with conventional medications as many integrative medicine practitioners prescribe.
It has also been seen that the children themselves may be more amenable to alternative therapies than we may think. Teens in particular have displayed more interest in these therapies and have shown themselves as being more open to trying something new.
Children with conditions such as chronic headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, neck and back problems, fibromyalgia, tooth pain, sickle cell anemia, inflammatory bowel disease and even cancer can receive benefit.
However the recent massive recall of children’s pain medications can make anyone doubt the safety of mainstream pharmaceutical formulations.
However it is only natural that many of the alternative therapies that adults choose for pain management and relief may be viewed with some concern when it comes to children.
For instance is it safe for children to be subjected to complementary therapies such as acupuncture and hypnosis?
Integrative therapy does show that it is possible to safely offer certain alternative therapies to children as well. The following alternative therapies for pain relief in children could be considered:
Biofeedback
Guided Imagery
Hypnosis
Massage
Art Therapy
These can be used by themselves or in conjunction with conventional medications as many integrative medicine practitioners prescribe.
It has also been seen that the children themselves may be more amenable to alternative therapies than we may think. Teens in particular have displayed more interest in these therapies and have shown themselves as being more open to trying something new.
Children with conditions such as chronic headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, neck and back problems, fibromyalgia, tooth pain, sickle cell anemia, inflammatory bowel disease and even cancer can receive benefit.
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