Saturday, February 16, 2013

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused. This can be painful and make walking more difficult. The most common complaint is pain and stiffness in the bottom of the foot and heel. The pain may be dull or sharp, achy or burning. Very common in runners and anyone starting or increasing exercise programs.
The pain is usually worse in the morning when you take your first steps, after sitting for a while or after intense activity. The pain may develop slowly over time, or suddenly after intense activity.
Massage Treatment plan for Plantar Fascia:
Gentle warm up, Myofascial release, realign the fibres of the plantar fascia, stretch the plantar fascia. Massage and stretch all the lower leg muscles that attach onto the foot.
Self care:
• Roll the sole of the foot over frozen juice can.
• Foot & lower leg stretches as seen below

Saturday, February 2, 2013

Reflexology

Reflexology is a gentle and non-intrusive treatment done on the feet. Reflexology does not use lotion. It works by pressing the reflex points all over the feet that correspond to the body parts and vital organs. By starting a massage therapy treatment with 20 minutes of reflexology, the feet identify areas of the body that need extra attention. This combined treatment is incredibly relaxing with a deeper healing and thorough massage treatment.
There are several theories of reflexology: The meridian theory comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine where stagnant chi can be released from meridians by pressing acupressure points on the feet; the zone theory divides the body into 10 zones and pressure applied in one part of the body can anesthetize another; and the nerve theory believes that reflexology stimulates the nerve endings in the feet.
While working your feet, I feel sandy or bumpy painful areas on your feet. These areas are sometimes painful when pressed, but the pain diminishes after a few presses. While working your feet, I can tell you which corresponding body part is being stimulated.
Reflexology helps with many ailments including Arthritis, Asthma, anxiety, back pain, constipation, depression, Eczema, fluid retention, head aches, high blood pressure, Irritable bowel syndrome, menopausal problems, period pains, post natal problems and sinusitis.
Overall, Reflexology reduces stress and induces deep relaxation, improves circulation and lymph flow, cleanses the body of impurities, creates homeostasis (a natural balance within the body), revitalizes energy and aids concentration. You'll have the best sleep of your life after your treatment.
Treatment Options:
30 min Reflexology treatment costs $46.50. 60 minute combination Reflexology and Massage Therapy costs $75.00. 90 minute Super Treatment with reflexology, massage therapy and lymphatic drainage costs $105.00.
Is Reflexology recommended for the elderly?
Yes, Reflexology is a highly beneficial treatment for the elderly. It is a gentle non-invasive treatment carried out upon the feet alone, which helps to induce deep relaxation and aids the body’s own healing process. Reflexology complements orthodox medicine and with benefits similar to massage therapy while being gentler on the body.