Treatments

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

A specialized therapy designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an important part of the body’s immune system. MLD treatment was developed in the early 1930s by the Danish physical therapist Dr Emil Vodder. Modern day research has established the effectiveness of the treatment on the lymphatic and nervous systems and MLD as a result is an accepted and effective treatment used in the management of conditions such as lymphoedema and conditions arising from a venous insufficiency combined with compression bandaging.

Contraction of the lymphatic vessels is stimulated by gentle rhythmical circling movements resulting in a greater amount of metabolic waste and excess fluid being removed from the tissues and into the lymphatic system. The fluid (lymph) is then cleansed of dead cells, bacteria and other waste products and then returned to the blood stream. MLD can be used to alleviate many different conditions as well as enhancing immunity. It has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system and is deeply relaxing.

• Lymphoedema - primary & secondary
• Lipoedema
• Bruising and swelling following cosmetic surgery and liposuction
• MLD can alleviate fluid congestion, swollen ankles and legs especially during pregnancy and due to pre-menstrual syndrome.
• Chronic inflammatory conditions, arthritis, sinusitis
• Promotes healing of wounds, leg ulcers and burns and can improve the appearance of old scars
• Enhance the healing process of broken bones, sprains, torn ligaments and reduce the pain associated with injuries
• Reduce post operative traumatic bruising and swelling
• Improve conditions such as acne and rosacea

Aromatherapy

A holistic form of treatment using pure essential oils for improving and maintaining health. Essential oils have many properties some of which are antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-fungal. Aromatherapy in conjunction with massage can have the following beneficial effects:-

• Rejuvenating & regenerating.
• Stimulating, relaxing and uplifting.
• Improving physical and emotional well being.
• Fortifying the immune system

Essential oils can also be used in therapeutic baths, compresses, and inhalations and also vaporized to enhance physical and emotional well being. Aromatherapy is a viable alternative and complement to orthodox treatments. All oils are mixed for the client at the time of treatment to cater for individual needs.

Reflexology

A holistic treatment increasingly recognized by the medical profession. It is based on the science that reflex points on the feet and hands relate to every organ, function and part of the body. This is a less intrusive treatment which is safe and effective and suitable for all ages. Using thumb and finger techniques, crystalline deposits on the feet indicating ill health and bodily imbalances can be dispersed. This relieves congestion, inflammation and tension restoring the free flow of energy stimulating the body to heal at its own pace. Modern day reflexology is based on zone theory as developed by Dr William Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose & throat specialist. Eunice Ingham, an American physiotherapist, created a map of the feet corresponding to the whole body and devised the precise massage technique that is practiced in reflexology today. Reflexology is beneficial in many ways, reducing everyday stress and tension. It can help many conditions including:-

• Allergies , headaches, migraine, sinusitis
• Bronchitis, asthma
• Back and joint pains. Sciatica, rheumatism
• Circulatory and respiratory conditions.
• Digestive disorders. IBS
• Hormonal and reproductive issues. Menopausal problems
• Stress and nervous complaints. Insomnia
• Bladder & kidney problems

Once balance is restored to mind body and spirit and health in general is improved it is wise to have regular treatments to maintain health and vitality.

Perrin Technique™

The Perrin Technique™ is an osteopathic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME). It is based on Dr Raymond Perrin’s theory that stress factors (whether physical, allergic, emotional or due to infection) can lead to an overstrain of the sympathetic nervous system. Further investigation has suggested that a probable cause of this overload is a build up of toxins in the fluid around the brain and the spinal cord. Some of the poisons caused by infection or inflammation in the head or spine flow through perforations in a bony plate just above the nasal sinuses (the cribriform plate) into the lymph ducts of the face and neck. The toxins should drain down the spinal cord and out into the lymph ducts lying along the spine. In a CFS/ME sufferer these normal drainage points are congested.

The Perrin Technique™ practitioner manually stimulates the fluid motion around the brain and spinal cord. Massage of the soft tissues in the head, neck, back and chest directs the toxins out of the lymphatic system and into the blood, from which they are eventually removed by the liver. Manipulation of the spine further aids drainage of these toxins from the cerebrospinal fluid. Eventually, with no poisons affecting the brain, the sympathetic nervous system begins to function correctly, and symptoms should gradually reduce. In time, some patients become completely symptom-free. For further information about the technique, see the Perrin Clinic™ website.

Phytotherapy

Herbs as medicines have been used by mankind for thousands of years. The Egyptians, Romans and Greeks used and introduced many herbs. Chinese medicine and the Indian system of Ayurveda use many of the same herbs as we do in Western herbal medicine. Many of our modern day drugs were developed from plants. Important drugs such as asprin came from the bark of Willow and Digoxin from Digitalis. Modern chemotherapeutic drugs such as Taxol are derived from the Yew. Many parts of the world today still rely on herbs as medicines.

Many ailments respond very favourably to phytotherapy as a natural alternative to strong drugs. Phytotherapy can offer a viable alternative to HRT and symptoms associated with the menopause. Many chronic conditions respond very well to phytotherapy.

It is important to consult your GP or pharmacist if you are taking prescribed medication, are pregnant or breast feeding before taking any herbal remedies.

‘M’ Technique®

The ‘M’ Technique® differs from conventional massage and can be used on anyone, it has measurable calming and relaxing therapeutic effects and is a method of structured touch. The sequence of movements work on skin receptors which directly affects the brain and nervous system reducing anxiety and evoking a deep level of relaxation. It is especially helpful prior to invasive medical procedures. Carol-Ann was taught by Dr Jane Buckle PhD RN who developed the ‘M’ Technique®. The technique can be used to reduce stress, fear, anxiety, grief and anger and can be of great benefit for those in chronic pain. The technique can also be used with aromatherapy oils to enhance well-being and achieve even deeper levels of relaxation. A very nurturing experience.

Reiki

An ancient Japanese healing system using Universal Life Energy. Reiki harnesses and channels this energy to where your body needs it the most.

Reiki re-balances the chakras and harmonizes body, mind and spirit.

Reiki has powerful and far reaching effects on a person’s health and in their lives. The experience is wonderfully relaxing and is a popular non-invasive form of natural healing.

Thermo Auricular Therapy

Better known as Hopi Ear candling as used by North & South American Indians. The oldest recorded use of ear candles is by the Hopi Pueblo tribe. The tradition has been handed down through the generations and the use of the candles can be found in ancient rock paintings. This ancient & legendary Indian relaxation therapy soothes and calms the mind, head and ears. The candles contain: pure beeswax, honey extract, traditional herbs of sage, St John’s Wort, chamomile and essential oils.

The chimney effect of the candles generates a therapeutic effect on the eardrum.

The warm relaxing effect produces a balance of pressure in the ears, head and sinuses. The treatment can also enhance nasal breathing and have a beneficial effect on the sense of smell.

Only the original BIOSUN® Hopi ear candles are used. As many ENT conditions are chronic a course of three treatment sessions are recommended. The time between sessions will depend on the residue from the candles and will vary from a few days to a few months between sessions.

Conditions which may benefit from the candles include:

• Snoring
• Labyrinthitis
• Sleep apnoea
• Regulation of sinus/nose
• Otitis media (glue ear), swimmer’s ear
• Patulous Eustation Tube (PET)
• Influenza
• Headaches & migraine
• Tinnitus
• Meniere’s disease. Tinnitus and Vertigo Unilateral or bilateral inner ear condition which can cause vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss.
• Bell’s palsy and facial neuralgia (often caused by the facial and trigeminal nerves)
• Stress
• Blocked tear duct
• Anosmia (loss of sense of smell)

Therapeutic Massage

Massage is a traditional and effective hands-on therapy using various techniques to relax and detoxify the client. It has therapeutic and physical benefits helping in many conditions, including:-

• Back pain
• Tight muscles
• Repetitive Strain Injury
• Insomnia
• Stress related conditions
• Circulation
• Lymphatic flow
• Lack of mobility
• Poor skin tone
• Postural imbalance

Sports Massage

Using deeper massage techniques for treating more active individuals. Primarily developed for sports performance and injury recuperation this form of massage can be of benefit in all areas of physical activity.

• Helping improve physical performance.
• Increasing flexibility and suppleness.
• Speeding up recovery time from training and physical activity.
• Helping restricted movement and overuse injuries.
• Helping prevent minor injuries developing into chronic overuse injuries.
• Aiding sporting performance with Pre- Event Massage.
• Aiding the removal of lactic acid.