Within seconds, life as I knew it was over. A half-ton truck struck
my car from behind as I was stopped on a highway. The second the shock
wore off, I was in pain. While most whiplash injuries resolve
themselves within three months of the injury, five percent never do
and become a chronic pain injury. I was in that five percent.
For seven years, I was passed from doctor to specialist, treatment
to treatment. I tried everything from massage therapy, chiropractic
care and acupuncture to craniosacral treatments and physical therapy.
These all felt great but offered no long- term relief in my case. I
was put on a multitude of pills and finally heard the inevitable
"maybe this is all in your head" suggestion from one doctor
who couldn't find anything to really and truly help me. Then came the
diagnosis: Chronic Pain and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Totally disgusted, exasperated and exhausted, I decided to see a
reflexologist at my health clinic. I had nothing to lose and it was
one modality I hadn't tried. Up until that time I had never even heard
of reflexology. What was it, anyway?
The reflexologist I had chosen had zero personality but gave me a
wonderful session. I felt so relaxed during the treatment that I
almost fell asleep and was disappointed when the session ended. I
wanted more! That night I slept a bit better and experienced a pain
decrease. I booked a series of appointments and haven't looked back
since. I loved the reflexology treatments so much that I was
determined to become a reflexologist just so that I could help myself.
That was four years ago. Now I work three to four days a week --
quite an achievement considering I was told that I would never work
again! I still have occasional massage and chiropractic appointments
and have to take care of myself; that goes without saying. However, I
am living proof that there is help and hope from Chronic Pain and
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that
there are reflexes in the hands and feet (and ears) that correspond to
every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of
specific pressure to these reflexes (formed by the 7200 nerve endings
in the feet), reflexology serves to decrease stress and tension,
improve circulation and promote the natural harmonious function of the
body without side effects.
Nerves carry messages and instruct the body. Blood transports
nutrients, glucose and oxygen to all parts of the body. The lymphatic
system cleanses and purifies the body. An improved nerve, blood and
lymphatic supply can have a positive effect on all twelve systems of
the body (cardio-vascular, central nervous, digestive, endocrine,
immune, lymphatic, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, sensory,
skeletal and urinary).
Reflexology is a unique modality in the health field and should not
be confused with massage. It is a master body of knowledge unto
itself. It should not be considered to replace conventional medicine,
but rather to enhance it. It can be helpful in a myriad of conditions
from nervous tension to PMS.
Search for and choose a reflexologist as you would any other health
professional. Certified reflexologists have successfully completed a
recognized certified program including a practical and written
examination and have earned the right to call themselves
reflexologists. Be sure your practitioner is qualified to ensure that
you are receiving the treatment that you are paying for.
Happy Feet!
Janice Cairns is a licensed, certified
reflexologist. She is an examiner for the state of Alaska and member
of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. To contact Janice, call
753-1054, or e-mail cairns@gci.net.
