Complementary Therapies for people with MS

Physiotherapy :: Osteopathy :: Massage/Reflexology :: Oxygen Treatment :: Podiatry 

Complementary therapies can be invaluable in helping those with MS manage their condition. There is no cure-all, but each of the therapies on offer at the centre is known to help relieve the symptoms of MS in some way.

Everybody is different; different treatments work for different people. We strongly believe it's all about finding what works for you as an individual.

Get in touch to find out more, or to speak to a therapy practitioner.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help MS patients is various ways:  teaching how to control and co-ordinate movement patterns; reducing spasticity and encouraging more normal movements; helping to regain functional abilities.

Physio programmes at the Centre are tailored to the individual needs of each person.  By careful and detailed assessment the physiotherapist can draw up a regime specific to each patient.

MS patients can be shown how to help themselves regain movement and co-ordination.  By monitoring their own progress, patients can use the gains made through treatment to broaden the activities they need for daily living.

Our Physiotherapist is Ian Mackay.  Physio usually takes place on a Tuesday and Thursday (9:30am - 2:00pm).

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body.  Osteopathy cannot address neurological problems directly associated with MS.  Osteopathy, however, does deal with those issues related to having MS.

Postural issues that put repeated pressure on arms and shoulders, problems with walking and gait, wheelchair use, stick use; all these are problems of muscle, joint and connective tissue that can be helped with osteopathic treatment.  Falls are common and distressing.  Osteopathy can help with the resolution of injury from falls.

Other aspects of life that MS sufferers have that are common to the population as a whole include stressed out shoulders and the associated headaches, so-called ‘tennis elbow’, housemaids knee - all conditions that osteopathy can help with.

Our Osteopath is David Harsant.  Osteopathy usually takes place on a Monday and Wednesday (9:30am - 12:30pm).

Massage/Reflexology

Massage Therapy aims to provide people with time and space for a relaxing and soothing experience in a warm, supportive atmosphere.  Massage improves the circulation.  It relaxes tense muscles and is an excellent way to unwind and help restore a sense of well being and balance.

Our Masseur and Reflexologist is Helen Thorpe.  Massage usually takes place on a Friday (9:30am - 1:30pm).

Oxygen Treatment 

The aim of oxygen therapy in MS is to minimise the amount of damage being caused, promote rapid healing and limit scar fomation, which can prevent nerve function being restored.  The most reported benefits are improved balance, sensory perception and control of incontinence.  Many gain relief from symptoms.

Oxygen treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a chamber at 1.5 to 2.5 times normal atmospheric pressure.  The chamber at the Centre can accommodate 6 people.

There is a a variety of background information on oxygen treatment here on the National Therapy Centres website.

Our barochamber is operated by trained volunteers. Sessions usually take place on a Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, starting at 10:00am.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a popular complementary therapy.  It may promote relaxation, improve circulation, reduce pain, soothes tired feet, and encourage overall well-being.

The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.  Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways.

Many people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment.  They may even feel sleepy.

Reflexology at the Centre takes place on an ad-hoc basis; please contact us to arrange a session or find out more.

Podiatry

Podiatry or Chiropody is the assessment of the foot and the treatment and prevention of diseases or disorders of the foot by therapeutic, ortholic and palliative means.

Podiatrists specialise in the recognition, assessment, treatment, and ongoing care of the foot.  The Podiatrist has many skills and techniques that help patients eliminate foot pain, gain mobility, and maintain healthy feet.

Podiatry at the Centre takes place once a month; please contact us to arrange a session or find out more.