Complementary “touch” therapies such as reflexology may help to reduce the experience of distress for Retirement home residents

Complementary “touch” therapies such as massage and reflexology may help to reduce the experience of distress for nursing home residents by promoting a relaxation response.

This paper discusses the use of reflexology as a clinical intervention in nursing home residents with mild to moderate dementia. A review of the literature indicates that reflexology is a useful tool in promoting relaxation and improving well-being. Referral criteria for reflexology in this population are suggested.
We present the story of a resident whose primary diagnoses of moderate dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and depression is similar to the clinical presentation of many nursing home residents. The case illustrates the role of reflexology in assisting with the management of stress in residents with complex needs.

Reflexology provides a holistic practice tool that does not rely on language, is minimally invasive, and can evoke a positive emotional response with little risk of adverse effect.

Source of support: The Farber Family Foundation
Susan G. Andersen BS, CHES Project Director, Madlyn and Leonard Abramson Center for Jewish Life North Wales, PA USA

Nancy A. Hodgson RN, PhD Acting Director of Research, Madlyn and Leonard Abramson Center for Jewish Life North Wales, PA USA

---

Citation: S.G. Andersen, N.A. Hodgson: Reflexology with Nursing Home Residents: A Case Vignette. The Internet Journal of Geriatrics and Gerontology. 2007 Volume 3 Number 2

Reflexology interest (hands-on) course

Wilson and Reynolds Reflexology
Reflexology for Beginners Interest Course
March 31. Click on the link above for more details

Reflexology for Beginners

Reflexology for Beginners

Date: Sat, Mar 31st, 2012
Time: 09:00am - 12:00pm
Location: 94 Simpson Street, Brighton, Ontario

A Hands-On Workshop For Beginners

Learn the theory and basic techniques of the ancient natural healing therapy of Reflexology.

The Workshop objectives
-Learn the history of Reflexology
-Learn the benefits of Reflexology
-Learn location and Pressure points and reflexes in the feet
-Learn the description of basic techniques
-Practice hands-on

Go away with the basic skills to treat family and friends.


Price is $79.00 per person
Register prior to march 1st and pay only $69.00

Contact us via website www.wilsonandreynolds.ca

This is an interest course, not for certification

Learn Better Health with Reflexology and Proper Nutrition

Better Health with Reflexology and Proper Nutrition

Discover the benefits of reflexology combined with proper nutrition

Look better, feel better, sleep better

Reduce stress, improve circulation, balance the body systems

January 30^th, 2012

Copperfield’s Fitness and Rehabilitation Centre

421 Dundas Street West Trenton

6:30- 8:00 pm

No Charge

RSVP   613-475-1023 or

Copperfield’s 613-392-1825 or email rsvp to info@wilsonandreynolds.ca

Presented by: Julie Wilson and Mark Reynolds, Certified Reflexologists

And

Jaye Yarrien, Registered Holistic Nutritionist

Plantar Fascitis

Plantar what?

Symptoms

The most common complaint is pain and stiffness in the bottom of the heel. The heel pain may be dull or sharp. The bottom of the foot may also ache or burn.

The pain is usually worse:

Ø  In the morning when you take your first steps

Ø  After standing or sitting for a while

Ø  When climbing stairs

Ø  After intense activity

The pain may develop slowly over time, or suddenly after intense activity.

Signs and tests

The doctor will perform a physical exam. This may show:

Ø  Tenderness on the bottom of your foot

Ø  Flat feet or high arches

Ø  Mild foot swelling or redness

Ø  Stiffness or tightness of the arch in the bottom of your foot.

X-rays may be taken to rule out other problems, but having a heel spur is not significant.

Treatment

Your doctor will usually first recommend:

Ø  Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and inflammation

Ø  Heel stretching exercises

Ø  Resting as much as possible for at least a week

Ø  Wearing shoes with good support and cushions

Other steps to relieve pain include:

Ø  Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice a day for 10 - 15 minutes, more often in the first couple of days.

Ø  Try wearing a heel cup, felt pads in the heel area, or shoe inserts.

Ø  Use night splints to stretch the injured fascia and allow it to heal.

from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Reflexology Treatment Benefits

Reflexology is beneficial because it stretches and relieves heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis.  During this special massage treatment, ligaments and muscles of the foot are relaxed and loosened, in addition to the calf muscles. The entire lower leg and foot experiences increased circulation, muscle relief and improved flexibility. Those who routinely go for a reflexology session experience less pain in the foot, heel and lower leg and are able to maintain full flexibility when doing daily activities.