Fibromyalgia & Reflexology
Fibromyalgia is a long term chronic condition that causes pain all over the body, sufferers experience highs and lows, with increased sensitivity to pain, chronic fatigue, muscle stiffness, insomnia, difficulty with mental processes - Fibro fog, headaches and IBS, to name but a few.
This condition does not just affect the sufferer but those around them, family, friends, children and husbands, putting a strain on many relationships for those who do not understand, why are their loved ones are not able to rush around the shops or go out on the town at a moment's notice. Fibromyalgia can be debilitating not just for the sufferer but also those around them.
It is not known what causes Fibromyalgia and that is why it can be difficult and timely to diagnose, causing increased anxiety for the sufferer. Fibromyalgia is thought to be related to abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the brain and changes in the way the central nervous system processes pain messages carried around the body. Whilst affecting around 7 times as many women than men, developing between the ages of 30-50, Fibromyalgia can occur at any age.
So what are the triggers? In many cases the condition appears to be triggered by a physically or emotionally stressful event such as; Injury or infection, giving birth, having an operation, breakdown of a relationship or even the death of a loved one.
With no known cure, Medical professionals often offer anti-depressants & painkillers to help support sufferers, Cognitive therapies and lifestyles changes are also suggested, For those sufferers who have reached the end of their tether with the constant effects of this condition, year after year and with people judging with the "well she looks ok?" comments, feeling useless and overwhelmed, maybe its time to try something different?
As a very passionate Reflexologist, trained to level 5, I am always looking to increase my knowledge of certain conditions and to support my clients needs, I recently worked through a 6 week Reflexology case study with a lovely lady who has been suffering for many years and only recently being diagnosed with Fibromyalgia this year.
Reflexology has been used since 2330 BC by the ancient egyptians and for centuries it has supported people, using the basic principles of Reflexology, by working the reflex points on the feet, Reflexology stimulates through the nerve pathways, the organ function or body part that is tense, congested or damaged. Reflexology breaks down any tension, helps the system to eliminate toxins where necessary, reduces pain quite dramatically and encourages the body to heal itself, in addition to this Reflexology is also an aid to relaxation and a great way to reduce emotional stresses and strains.
For this case study the Reflexology conducted was based on the presenting problems of the client, taking into account how she was feeling, we worked together to draw up a relevant treatment plan, which was used and adapted throughout the 6 week period. There was of course ups and downs, was there any change in the symptoms? was the treatment helping? Prior to the initial treatment we completed a MYCAW questionnaire so that we could easily track the progress. The 6 weeks were up and we had definitely made progress the with all of the initial symptoms seeing some degree of improvement. Reflexology is an amazing non-intrusive holistic treatment that can help support so many ailments, with really positive results, maybe you should give Reflexology a go and see how it can help you.
