Lanigan Massage & Bodywork
Bringing balance through massage therapy in the Sewickley area since 2002
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE / PAIN MANAGEMENT
MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT TECHNIQUES
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY
NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE THERAPY (TRIGGER POINT THERAPY)
SPORTS MASSAGE
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
THERAPEUTIC CUPPING
DEEP TISSUE HOT STONE SWEDISH MASSAGE
SYNERGY STONE HEAT~WAVE MASSAGE
CHAIR MASSAGE
OTHER MASSAGE MODALITIES
ADD-ON TREATMENTS
EYE TREATMENTS
PARAFFIN SPA
HAND AND/OR FOOT REVITALIZATION TREATMENT
RAINDROP THERAPY
CASTOR OIL PACK (IMMUNE BOOST)
IONIC FOOT DETOX
KINESIO-TAPING
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE / PAIN MANAGEMENT
You can think of this as a much less painful way to release the trigger points that are causing you pain. Orthopedic massage is an all-encompassing massage technique that uses a multidisciplinary approach to isolate the missing link in reoccurring chronic pain and musculoskeletal dysfunctions. The 12-step approach focuses on assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. Training by International Lecturer and Author, James Waslaski. An in depth assessment isolates the muscle, fascia and/or joint which is causing the problem.
- Step 1: Take an accurate and informative client history
- Step 2: Assess the active range of motion
- Step 3: Assess the passive range of motion
- Step 4: Assess the resisted range of motion
Treatment is specific to the results of the assessment, and may include techniques from Myofascial Release (release of connective tissue), Neuromuscular Therapy (trigger point therapy), Sports Massage (PNF stretching), CranioSacral Therapy (muscle energy), or any other modality that is indicated by the assessment.
- Step 5: Tissue preparation
- Step 6: Release of the myofascial tension surrounding the muscles (Myofascial Release)
- Step 7: Address trigger points in the affected muscles (Neuromuscular Massage Therapy)
- Step 8: Breaking up scar tissue adhesions (Multi-Directional Friction)
- Step 9: Aligning the scar tissue so it becomes functional in the muscle (Scar Tissue Alignment)
Rehabilitation is the neuromuscular reeducation of the tissues and nerves. If your have not been able to raise your arm over your head for the last 2 years, your brain will subconsciously restrict the motion even though the physiological restriction has been removed. By continually repeating the motion, you will convince your brain that the movement is OK while also increasing the amount of synovial fluid (joint lubricant) in the joint. Rehabilitation also includes patient home care.
- Step 10: Pain free movement
- Step 11: Pain free stretching
- Step 12: Pain free strengthening
What Will Orthopedic Massage Help? Any soft tissue dysfunction:
- Neck – Whiplash, Stiff neck, Head posture, Cervical disk pathology
- Shoulder – Thoracic outlet syndrome, Frozen shoulder, Rotator cuff tears, Shoulder impingement, Misaligned shoulders
- Elbow / Wrist / Hand – Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Degenerative arthritis
- Back – Lordosis, Kyphosis, Scoliosis, Lumbar disk pathology, Spondylolysis, Facet joint irritation
- Hip and Pelvis – Pelvic tilt, Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, Piriformis syndrome, Low back pain, Sciatica
- Knee – Patella problems, Iliotibial Band (ITB) Friction Syndrome, Knee alignment problems, Locked knees, Ligament problems
- Lower Leg –Shin splints, Anterior compartment syndrome (ACS), Stress fractures, Muscle cramping, Lace bite
- Ankle - Achilles tendonitis, Ankle sprains and strains, Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Foot – Plantar fasciitis, Calcaneal misalignments, Fallen and high arches
For more information: http://www.orthomassage.net/published_articles
MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT TECHNIQUES
Myo - (prefix): A prefix denoting a relationship to muscle.
Skeletal (adjective): Of, relating to, or functioning as a skeleton.
Myoskeletal Alignment is a term developed and coined by Erik Dalton, PhD, in the early 80s after seeing a need for a more integrative perspective on pain management in the human body. Myoskeletal alignment technique (MAT) is a type of bodywork which blends the principles of osteopathy and structural integration to relieve chronic pain, and to reduce the potential for the emergence of pain which could become chronic over time.
After spending years working as a certified Rolfer® and studying under legendary figures such as Vladimir Janda, M.D., and Phillip Greenman, DO, Erik realized that a much broader approach was needed to better help his clients in pain. Erik’s fascination with Janda’s upper and lower crossed syndromes challenged him to figure a way to incorporate and teach this elegant posture-functional model to the massage and bodywork community.
In 1998, his first Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques book and videos were released. This very popular home-study course included Dalton’s “Dirty-Dozen” routines for assessing and correcting pain problems associated with Janda’s commonly seen postural model. It was then that Myoskeletal Alignment -- an integrative marriage of the work of Vladimir Janda, Rolfing, and manipulative osteopathy -- was born.
This is Erik’s greatest contribution to the field of manual medicine: Working from the knowledge that the body’s myofascial and skeletal systems are inseparable. What affects one always affects the other.
Accordingly, Myoskeletal Alignment focuses on treating stubborn pain conditions by mobilizing joints through muscle manipulation. Tight, stressed muscles contribute to pain by limiting freedom of movement, while weak muscles provide inadequate support for the body. This in turn leads to posture problems, stiffness, and other symptoms which create an endless cycle of pain. By addressing the fundamental issues in the muscles and fascia, practitioners hope to eliminate the associated symptoms.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY
The first treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Myofascial Release. Myo (muscle) fascial (connective tissue) Release is a technique designed to release tension in the fascia – the tough, connective tissue that connects and surrounds muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, arteries, veins and organs. The fascia can become tight or distorted as a result of injury, illness, poor posture and inflammation. This can cause abnormal pressure on the surrounding tissues (such as the muscles) covered by the fascia, which can lead to pain or lack of mobility. Many individuals suffer from pain caused by nothing more than untreated fascial problems.
This is a highly interactive stretching technique that requires feedback from the patient to determine the direction, force and duration of the stretch to facilitate maximum relaxation of the restricted tissues. The combination of heat, pressure, and gentle stretch will melt and mobilize the fascia, thereby freeing the underlying tissue to move unrestricted.
For more information: http://www.myofascial-release.com/
NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE THERAPY (TRIGGER POINT THERAPY)
The second treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Neuromuscular Massage. Neuromuscular massage is an advanced system of soft tissue manipulation that specializes in relieving pain and dysfunction by balancing the nervous system with the muscular and skeletal systems through the treatment of the areas of muscle spasm (trigger points). It is specific to a particular problem or injury.
- Over 90% of pain complaints are associated with trigger points
- Over 70% of pain complaints are the direct result of trigger points
Neuromuscular massage consists of applying concentrated pressure to the trigger points. Muscles that are in spasm are painful to the touch because they are lacking proper blood flow and therefore not receiving enough oxygen. It is this lack of oxygen that causes the muscle to produce lactic acid and create adhesions. By applying pressure to the trigger points, adhesions are broken down and the muscle can relax. The lactic acid will be released and the muscle can then start receiving enough blood and oxygen to regain normal functionality, thereby restoring the neuro (nervous) muscular functionality.
SPORTS MASSAGE
Sports massage is designed to reduce injuries, alleviate inflammation, and speed up recovery after an athletic event.
Basic Maintenance and Rehabilitation
- PNF stretching - Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation
- Combines muscle contraction and relaxation with passive and partner-assisted stretching
- Originally developed as a form of rehabilitation, and to that effect it is very effective
- Widely regarded as the best method to increase overall flexibility (range of motion), as well as muscular strength
Pre-Event
- Quick treatments used as part of your warm-up to increase your circulation and flexibility
Post-Event
- Help to quiet the nervous system and relax you from the effects of competition
- Keeps pain and soreness to a minimum
- Increases circulation which increases the removal of acids, toxins, and muscle spasms
- Prevents delayed onset of muscle soreness
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
Lymphatic drainage therapy can also be thought of as immune system support and full body detoxification. It is a form of massage that enhances the efficiency of the body’s lymphatic system – a critical system for supporting the immune system and removing excess fluids and toxins from the body. It normally functions at about 10% of its capacity, leaving 90% as a functional reserve. Lymphatic drainage therapy activates this 90% so it is functioning closer to 100% of its capacity.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy stimulates muscle contractions in lymph and blood vessels, which increases lymphatic and blood flow. This increased lymphatic fluid circulation:
- Drains toxins, macromolecules (proteins), and fat from the body
- Stimulates the immune system – More antigens are carried to the lymph nodes, increasing antigen/antibody
- Increases the parasympathetic response – This diminishes the sympathetic response (“fight or flight”) – very relaxing
- Reduced pain – Alleviates tissue fluid stagnation and may inhibit pain receptors
- Reduces muscle spasms of both voluntary (muscle cramps) and involuntary (constipation, menstrual cramps) muscles
- What Will Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Help?
- Skin/Hair – Complexion, Wrinkles, Scars, Cellulite, Hair loss, Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, Seborrhea
- Metabolic System – Stress, Fatigue, Chronic pain, Sleeping disorders, Snoring, Detoxification, Jet lag, Alcohol hangover
- Nervous System – Headaches, Stroke, Concussion, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Vertigo, Epilepsy
- Reproductive System – PMS, Breast pain from swollen breasts, Menstrual cramps, Pregnancy, Menopause, Infertility
- Liver / Intestines – Chronic constipation, gastritis, stress ulcers, or appendicitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ear-Nose-Throat – Tinnitus (Ringing in ears), Vertigo, Hearing loss, Chronic sinusitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis
- Lungs – Chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Cystic fibrosis, Hay fever
- Physical – Trauma, Sprains, Dislocations, Fractures, Neck Pain, Whiplash, Lower back pain, Sciatica
- Sports – Muscle spasms, Swelling, Metabolic wastes and lactic acid removal, Torn muscles, Joint dislocations, Fractures
- Surgery – Pre- and post-surgery (Drains passages and prepares tissue), Reduces scars, Cosmetic surgery, Burns
- Rheumatology – Rheumatoid arthritis, Fibromyalgia syndrome, Osteoporosis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel, Tennis Elbow, Stiff neck
- Geriatrics – Tissue regeneration and oxygenation, Deep cleansing, Stimulates immune system
I am sorry, but I am not yet qualified to work with "true" lymphedema. If you need this treatment, please refer to one of the following:
- the Upledger Institute's "Find a Practitioner" page - look for lymph drainage therapy with 3+ classes http://www.iahp.com/pages/search/index.php
- Call the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy at 412-241-5155
THERAPEUTIC CUPPING
Cupping is an alternative medicine in which cups are placed on the skin to create suction (negative pressure) in order to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation and activate lymphatic drainage.
Indications:
- Stimulate Lymphatic System to Facilitate in Detox
- Reduce Inflammation
- Reduce Pain
- Relieve Muscle & Joint Pain
- Treat Headaches
- Relieve Neck and Shoulder Tension
- Relieve Back Pain
- Reduce Fibromyalgia Symptoms
- Reduce Abdominal Cramps
- Improve General Wellness
- Improve Blood Circulation
- Increase Metabolism
- Improve Digestive Function
- Improves Common Cold
- Body Sculpting
- Improve or Eliminate Cellulite
- Firm & Tone Skin
- Reduce Stretch Marks and Soften Scars
- Reduce Spider Veins
DEEP TISSUE HOT STONE SWEDISH MASSAGE
This is what most people think of when we say, “massage”, only with hot stones. This is a general relaxing yet therapeutic massage, but not specific to any injury or specific problem. Usually a full-body massage unless otherwise requested. My 1-hour massage is basically a sweep of the body with the hot stones. The 1½-hour version includes foot reflexology and more specific bodywork or orthopedic work.
The hot stones are used to sedate and dilate the blood vessels. They help to take the body into a deeper state of relaxation as well as melt away the tension in the fascia (connective tissue) and muscles faster and easier. This is the epitome of relaxing.
Psychological Effects:
- Reduce stress
- Reduce anxiety
- Increase mental clarity and focus
Physiological Effects:
- Increases the circulation of the blood, thereby increasing the oxygen and nutrients to the cells
- Increases the circulation of the lymph and aids in the removal of metabolic wastes
- Restores metabolic balance
- Increases joint mobility and fascial (connective tissue) mobility
- Relaxes fascia and muscles, thereby decreasing pain
SYNERGY STONE HEAT~WAVE MASSAGE
Contoured to fit smoothly against the curves of the body, these stones blend soothing warmth, custom pressure and advanced massage techniques into an Ultra-Relaxing and Therapeutic experience called the HEAT~WAVE Massage! Hand made of solid natural Stoneware near Seattle, WA., and developed by Scott Wynn, a massage professional with nearly 20 years experience, these revolutionary HEAT~WAVE Massage tools blend the deeply relaxing warmth of traditional hot stones with the health benefits of deeper therapeutic massage.
Heat~Wave Stone - Its two long flat sides provide a soothingly surreal and warm sensation while the five elbow like tips and ends work to penetrate deeply where needed.
Serene Stone - A perfect balance of form and function, the Serene Stone provides broad warmth with a large flat surface area, notches on both sides for maneuverability and narrow edges for focusing pressure where you need it. It's ability to twist and turn from broad, flat and forgiving to narrow and aggressive gives SERENE an advantage over any other shaped stones.
Blissful Stone - Contoured like an hour-glass to move easily over and around any body area. Rolling curves give BLISSFUL its function and versatility. The top and bottom edges give "Dual-Touch" sensations for turning, twisting, wringing and raking. With a thin middle all the way around to give maneuverability and agility where needed, BLISSFUL can transform an average massage into an ultra-relaxing sensation.
Sublime Stone - Features 4 T-shaped knobs and 4 soothing saddles that Knead, Sculpt and Rake muscles toward optimal health. Easily held multiple different ways which allows for many different approaches to each area you're massaging. Blending the heat of Hot Stone Massage with focused therapeutic techniques SUBLIME holds an obvious advantage over natural rounded stones that are difficult to maneuver. Excellent at twisting long muscles to lengthen, spreading wide muscles to broaden and kneading large muscles to soften.
Divine Stone - The Divine Stone has a trifecta of specialized features able to focus your intention and efforts. The finger like tips are naturally perfect for massaging any area with controlled precision and any degree of gentle to deeper pressure. Surprisingly fantastic over shoulders, feet, hands, face and scalp for an invigorating yet relaxing sensation. Improve circulation, decrease tension and massage away aches and pain.
CHAIR MASSAGE
Chair massage is a great way to make massages available to people outside of the massage office. The ergonomically designed chair is portable and can be taken just about anywhere. It offers many of the same benefits as a table massage without having to remove clothing.
Workplace Chair Massage - We have a program in which we will come into the workplace and provide chair massage for the employees. Many companies are realizing the benefits of offering stress reduction or wellness programs to their employees.
- There is a $4 to $7 return for every $1 of investment on Employee Wellness Programs – through accident reduction and lower use of medical plans – Employee Assistance Professional Association
- Stress accounts for $26 billion in medical and disability payments and $95 billion in productivity losses annually – Occupational Health and Safety News and the National Council on Compensation Insurance
- Workplace massage is one of the most effective “stress-busters” available
- Lower healthcare costs
- Increases the morale, satisfaction, and loyalty of the workers
- Enhances concentration, efficiency and creativity
- Programs can be set up to accept either direct payments from employees, company payments, or co-payments where both the company and worker contribute a portion of the payment.
- Any monies contributed by the company are a 100% tax-deductible employee health benefit.
OTHER MASSAGE MODALITIES
I also am trained in many other techniques which may be incorporated into the massage as necessary. These include: Aromatherapy, Hydrotherapy, Reflexology, Raindrop Technique, Reiki II, CranioSacral Therapy, Polarity Therapy, and Touch for Health.
AVAILABLE AD-ON TREATMENTS
Eye treatments
Refresh and rejuvenate your eyes while reducing the puffiness, swelling and dark circles. Available eye treatments include:
- Earth Therapeutics Cucumber Eye Pads - Recover-E Soothe and Replenish (Cucumber, Vitamin E, Aloe vera, Green tea, Chamomile)
- Earth Therapeutics Orange Eye Pads - Rejuvenal-C Refresh and Rejuvenate (Orange, Vitamin C, Ginko Biloba, Green tea, Chamomile)
- Earth Therapeutics Hydrogel Under-Eye Recovery Patch - Anti-oxidant skin defense (Green tea, Anti-oxidant vitamin complex, Aloe vera, Cucumber, Chamomile)
Paraffin Spa
A hot wax treatment is very beneficial to the body. It increases circulation by expanding the blood vessels, draws nutrients to the skin's surface, flushes toxins, opens pores, soothes and moisturizes the skin, and promotes a sense of calm. It is commonly used to treat arthritis, bursitis, eczema, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms, overworked or fatigued muscles, psoriasis, scar tissue, stiff joints, tendonitis, and tennis elbow (to name a few).
Paraffin wax has a very high “heat capacity,” meaning it is able to absorb and retain a great amount of heat. A paraffin wax spa takes advantage of paraffin's heat-retaining capacity in a simple process called “heat transfer.” As it melts, the paraffin becomes a liquid and is able to retain more heat. Then, when a hand, foot, or other area is dipped into the heated bath, the “phase” of the paraffin that surrounds the dipped area quickly changes into a solid. The heat that is given off is called the heat of “fusion.” More simply, the heat that goes into melting the paraffin comes out of the paraffin when it solidifies into a comforting, warm glove or layer, thus transferring the heat into the affected limb.
In addition to the paraffin, I have heated booties and hand mitts to retain the heat longer and increase the benefits.
Hand and/or Foot Revitalization Treatment
Revive and refresh your overworked hands and tired feet! The treatment begins with a refreshing peppermint spruce exfoliation, followed by penetrating deep heat paraffin, and finished with moisturizer and a refreshing spray. These products use the power of Melaleuca Oil to penetrate dry, rough skin; Peppermint oil to reduce muscle tension; all while extracts such as chamomile, calendula, and aloe to soothe tired, aching feet. This treatment also includes some quick reflexology.
Raindrop Therapy
Raindrop therapy is an aromatherapy technique. The therapeutic grade essential oils are applied to the vitaflex points in the feet, as well as the neck and spine. The effects of the treatment can include deep relaxation, pain relief, emotional release, and immune system strengthening.
The Vitaflex technique is an ancient Tibetan technique which means 'vitality through the reflexes'. It is based on the piezoelectric theory that mechanical pressures applied to the body create electric charges which are therapeutic to the body. The application of oil to these Vitaflex points will help to address breaks in the nerve pathways caused by damage or toxins.
Essential oils are the lifeblood of plants. The high concentration of this lifeblood makes the essential oils highly effective in fighting bacteria and viruses, stimulating the nerves, tissue regrowth, and enhancing and improving mood
There are 9 essential oils that are used:
- Oregano
- Strong immune-enhancing properties
- Antioxidant properties
- Supports the respiratory system
- Thyme
- Reduces and eliminates bacteria that is present in the body
- Reduces the effects of fatigue and stress by supplying energy to the body
- Basil
- Relaxes the muscles, including those of the digestive system and heart
- Stimulates the sense of smell
- Reduces mental fatigue
- Cypress
- Benefits the circulatory system
- Wintergreen
- Elevates the awareness of the body’s sensory system
- Relieves joint discomfort, muscle aches, and bone stress
- Marjoram
- Supports the proper functioning of the body’s respiratory system
- Relaxes the muscles and reduces muscle spasms
- Calms the nerves
- Peppermint
- Benefits the respiratory system
- Soothes digestive problems
- Improves mental acuity
- Improves the senses of taste and smell
- Aroma Siez - Young Living blend of basil, cypress and marjoram
- Helps the body to relax and remain in a calm state of being.
- Reduces and relieves the soreness and tightness of muscles that have been overworked due to fatigue, stress, or injury
- Valor - Young Living blend of rosewood, blue tansy, frankincense and spruce
- Antibacterial, anti-infectious, anti-fungal, antiviral, and anti-parasitic
- Soothes the skin and helps to renew its elasticity
- Antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties
- Has the ability to reduce and partially relieve the symptoms of arthritis, dermatitis, sciatica, allergies, and tuberculosis
- Can lift the negative effects of despair and stress by stimulating parts of the brain
- Stimulates the emotions toward a sense of balance
Because of the detoxification effect of Raindrop Therapy, you may experience some mild side effects. These mild symptoms may include headache, nausea and/or stomach ache, muscle aches and/or flu like symptoms, sinus drainage, fatigue or tiredness, or emotional release and/or increase. The best advice is to drink plenty of water before and after a session to assist the detoxification process.
Castor Oil Pack (Immune Boost)
Castor oil is a pale yellow liquid extracted from castor seeds. It has many therapeutic and medicinal benefits, thought to be derived from the oil’s high concentration of Ricinoleic acid (an omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid). It has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant properties. It is particularly effective in being absorbed into lymph circulation.
Castor oil is believed to be so effective by increasing lymphatic circulation, promoting elimination, and healing the tissues and organs underneath the skin. Listed here are only a handful of the many benefits:
- Strengthens the immune system
- Increases mobility and effectiveness of white blood cells
- Stimulates T-11 (CD2) antigen production
- Improves lymphatic circulation
- Improves the flow and movement of the lymph fluid, thus allowing the body to eliminate fats and wastes quicker
- Great detoxification of the body
- Improves digestion
- Improves liver and intestinal function
- Reduces pain, inflammation and swelling in injured muscles, joints and extremities
- Decreases or eliminates fibroids, cysts and some tumors
- Reduces wrinkles - Castor oil is a natural emollient and moisturizer that penetrates the skin and helps stimulate the production of collagen and elastin which can soften and hydrate the skin.
- Bacterial and fungal infections (athlete’s foot, other fungal infections, skin ulcers, chronic itching and inflamed skin)
- Skin infections and other skin problems (sunburn, abrasions, acne, dry skin, boils, warts, scar tissue, stretch marks and liver/age spots)
- Bladder and vaginal infections (thrush)
- Liver problems (cirrhosis, hepatitis, enlargement or congestion)
- Gastrointestinal problems (dysentery, constipation and inflammatory bowel disease)
- Reproductive problems (menstrual irregularities, uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts)
- Muscular skeletal problems (sore muscles, arthritic joints, nerve inflammations, rheumatism, gout)
- Styes (oil gland infections on the eyelid)
Castor Oil Pack Placement:
- Abdomen
- The right side of the abdomen to stimulate the liver
- The center abdomen to relieve constipation and other digestive disorders
- The lower abdomen in cases of menstrual irregularities and uterine and ovarian cysts
- Inflamed and swollen joints, bursitis, and muscle strains
- Improve lymphatic circulation - Apply the pack to the area near your upper back, neck and shoulders or near your abdomen, upper ribcage or the top of your hipbone
Treatments:
- Inflammation - Apply castor oil to the area affected and leave it on the skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
- Skin infections - Large areas, place the pack on the skin to increase circulation and to promote elimination and healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. Small areas, dip a cotton wool ball into castor oil and apply directly to the affected area twice a day.
- Massage oil for relieving muscular skeletal problems
- For stubborn fungal infections or extremely dry and callused skin or nails, it is recommended to soak the affected area in Epsom Salts or Alkaline Salts for 10-15 minutes to soften and disinfect the skin before applying castor oil. This can help speed up the healing process
- Styes - apply a very small drop of castor oil to a Q-tip and apply directly onto the stye 2 or 3 times per day
Cautions:
Castor oil is considered safe in proper doses. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use castor oil, nor should people with intestinal blockage, acute inflammatory intestinal disease, appendicitis, or abdominal pain. Women should not use this during the monthly period as it will increase the blood flow.
More Information:
http://www.ndhealthfacts.org/wiki/Castor_Oil
Ionic Foot Detox
The health benefits of negative ions are what makes an ionic foot bath detox so effective. Negative ions are beneficial to human body in four major ways:
- Strengthen the functions of autonomic nerves
- Reinforces collagen
- Improves metabolism
- Strengthens the body's immune system.
The process is based on osmosis. When water is ionized (split into H+ and OH- ions), the ions are able to enter the body through the 4,000 large pores of the feet. The circulatory and lymphatic systems transport the ions throughout the body, which then neutralize oppositely charged toxins in the cells. Your cells are energized, which encourages them to release oil, acid, fat, heavy metals, and other debris and waste which has accumulated over your entire lifetime. As your cells release the toxins, they are carried out of your feet and back into the water through osmosis. In this way, all the body's organs can become energized and stimulated to function optimally. The body then rids itself of remaining toxins through its normal processes.
This treatment is best after a massage when the circulatory and lymphatic systems have been stimulated. The treatment itself takes 30 minutes. Please allow 5-10 minutes extra for time before and after.
The Kinesio Taping® Method is a rehabilitative taping technique that is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion, as well as providing extended soft tissue manipulation to prolong the benefits of manual therapy administered within the clinical setting. While there are a lot of claims about what the tape can do, the only claim that I will make is it's benefit to the lymphatic system (because that is the only claim that makes sense to me). However, getting the lymphatic system to work properly definitely affects how the rest of the body works, so the other claims may be a secondary response to getting the lymphatic system working properly.