If you have arthritis and joint pain, the season shift into fall likely has you feeling especially achy. Here is a handy link to current weather conditions in Victoria, though you can change cities. The site also suggests how arthritis is likely affected, in real time.
The Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit worldwide leader in medical care, defines osteoarthritis as, “the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint in your body, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine.” The Mayo Clinic also states, “Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and other treatments may slow progression of the disease and help improve pain and joint function.”
When researching what other treatments worked to help improve pain and joint function I found acupuncture, massage and reflexology. The Danish, in particular, has a large portion of their population turning to reflexology. The Danish reflexology association (FDZ) research showed that one out of four Danes receives reflexology, already showing it to be a favored complimentary therapy. They report that the top reason people seek reflexology is for joint and pain relief. In fact, pain in muscles and joints accounted for 44% of those seeking reflexology. [Reflexologist Leila Eriksen and statistician and Associate Professor Jan Moller Jensen, University of Southern built the 2006 Report respectively “reflexology clients – Denmark” 2368 client data and 618 therapist data. http://www.fdz.dk/zoneterapi/zoneterapi-er-godt-for-alle/hver-fjerde-har-faaet-zoneterapi/]
My own reflexology clients have also reported back relief from their osteoarthritis symptoms. Through this gentle massage, strained tissues learn to relax, joints maximize their range and blood flow increases, positively stimulating the affected area. This creates relief, a decrease in pain, a greater range of motion and an upbeat attitude after treatments. However, please note that when working with inflamed tissues, other techniques and precautions should be taken. The reasons for inflammation may not be 100% related to osteoarthritis and could range from tissue damage to infection, which is why taking a medical history and open communication between client and therapist is an important first step.
The following quote is my most recent feedback from a client managing osteoarthritis symptoms. “I have been seeing Nicole on an ongoing basis since April 2014. With osteoarthritis in two places in my left foot and a loss of range of motion, I found Nicole’s treatments extremely beneficial. Initially with a one hour treatment and then half hour treatments every two weeks, Nicole’s expert hands helped in loosening a very stiff foot and ankle which has improved my mobility and aided in increased circulation. As well as being a very relaxing experience, Nicole could often tell what other parts of my body needed extra attention by massaging the specific reflex points on the foot. I enjoy Nicole’s company and often feel so relaxed after a treatment that it’s hard to leave!” ~ D.Y.
If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, reflexology may be the right fit for you to help manage your symptoms. With the right combination of activity, great food and therapies, enjoying life can be your top experience once again.
Nicole Costello, Certified Reflexologist
Centerline Reflexology
(778)433-3119
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