Alternative Therapy

Reflexology
Regulated by the British Association of Reflexology Practitioners and others
 
Reflexology is a form of massage to the hands and feet. It is based on ancient Chinese teaching which assert that the feet contain areas corresponding to all areas of the body. Therefore by massaging the extremities, the whole body can be treated. Many patients have found this helpful including those with hormonal imbalances, tension and stress, depression and anxiety. The limitations to this treatment is the effects tend to be quite short, and a lack of scientific knowledge as to why the process works.
 
Aromatherapy
 
Aromatherapy uses oils which are massaged into the patient. The essential oils are derived from aromatic plants, which may be diluted to ensure safety and increase absorption into the skin. It is possible that the massage is the most beneficial or whether the oils replace vital chemicals within the patient. This treatment is often used for broken sleep patterns, anxiety, depression and concentration problems. The limitations are the lack of understanding as to the exact benefit and duration of effect.
 
Acupuncture
Regulated by the British Acupuncture Council
 
Again based on ancient Chinese teaching, acupuncture relies on putting needles into the patient. Although this may sound painful it is reported to be relatively painless. The theory is to release or stimulate certain physiological/chemical reactions. Typically used for stress or depression, the pattern of needles will depend on the diagnosis of the patient. The limitations lie in deriving a diagnosis from a complex pattern of disharmony and, again, in the understanding of how the process works.