The Therapy Book

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy
Copyright 2009 by John Board. All rights reserved. No portion of this e-book, except for brief
review, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without written permission of the
author, John Board.
Published by Gill Harley Ltd

March 2010
Contents
Contents
Preface
Introduction
The therapeutic effect
Important information
A-Z of therapies
How to find your way around this book
9
12
13
13
14
A
Actinotherapy
Acupressure
Acupuncture
Acutonics
Adventure Therapy
Alexander Technique
Amatsu Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy
Antiretroviral Therapy
Apitherapy / Bee Venom Therapy
Aromatherapy
Art Therapy
Attachment Therapy
Aura Therapy
Aura-Soma
Auriculotherapy
Australian Flower Essences Therapy
Authentic Movement Therapy
Autogenics
Aversion Therapy
Ayurvedic Medicine
14
15
16
18
20
22
23
25
26
27
29
30
32
34
35
36
37
39
40
41
43
45
B
Bach Flower Remedies and Flower Essence Therapy
Bates Method
Behaviour Therapy
Biofeedback Therapy
Biorhythms Therapy
Bowen Technique
Brachytherapy
Breathwork and Holotropic Breathwork Therapy
45
46
48
49
50
52
53
55
57
C
Chakra Balancing
Chelation Therapy
2
2
8
9
57
58

Chemotherapy
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chiropractic Therapy
Cognitive Analytic Therapy
Cognitive Therapy
Coherence Therapy
Colloidal Silver Therapy
Colon Hydrotherapy or Colonic Irrigation
Colour Therapy
Conversion Therapy
Counselling Therapy
Cranio-Sacral Therapy
Crystal Therapy
Cupping Therapy
81
D
Dance Therapy
Deep Tissue Bodywork Therapy
Destruction Therapy
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy
Diathermy Therapy
Distance Healing Therapy
Diversional Therapy
Dream Therapy
Drug Therapy
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy
81
82
83
85
86
87
88
90
91
93
95
E
Ear Candling (Hopi) Therapy
Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electrotherapy
EMDR Therapy
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)
Energy Medicine
Enzyme Therapy
Equine Assisted Therapy
Existential Therapy
Expressive Therapy
95
96
98
100
101
102
104
105
106
108
109
F
Family Therapy
The Feldenkrais Method
109
110
112
G
Gerson Therapy
Gestalt Therapy
Grief Therapy
Group Therapy
Gua Sha Therapy
Guided Imagery Therapy
Gyrotonic Therapy
3
59
61
63
64
66
67
68
70
71
73
74
76
77
79
112
113
115
116
117
118
120
122
H
Hair Analysis Therapy
Hakomi Therapy
Hawaiian or Lomi Lomi Massage Therapy
Heliotherapy
Helminthic Therapy
Herbal Medicine
Hippotherapy
Holistic Medicine
Homeopathy
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Humour Therapy
Hydrotherapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
HypnoBirthing
Hypnotherapy
146
I
Immunosuppressive Therapy
Immunotherapy
Indian Head Massage
Information Therapy
Infra-red Therapy
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Iridology
Isopathy
IV Therapy
146
147
149
150
151
153
154
156
157
159
J
Jin Shin Do
Jin Shin Jyutsu
Journaling Therapy
Juice Therapy
159
160
161
163
165
K
Kinesiology
Kirlian Photography
Korean Hand Acupuncture
165
166
168
170
L
Laser Therapy
Life Coaching
Light Therapy
Light Touch Therapy
Live Blood Microscopy
Logotherapy
Lymphatic Massage
170
171
173
175
176
177
179
181
M
Magnet Therapy
Manual Therapy
Marma Therapy
4
122
123
125
126
127
129
131
133
134
135
138
139
140
142
143
181
182
183

Martial Arts Therapy
Massage Therapy
Matrix Energetics
Medical Herbalism
Meditation Therapy
Mega-Vitamin Therapy
Meridian Therapy
Mesotherapy
Meta-Aromatherapy
Metamorphic Technique
Microwave Resonance Therapy
Molecular Reform Therapy
Morita Therapy
Moxibustion Therapy
Multimodal Therapy
Music Therapy
Myofascial Release
208
N
Narrative Therapy
Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy
Naturopathy
Neuro Cranial Reconstruction Therapy
Neuro Emotional Technique
Neuro Linguistic Programming
Neurofeedback Therapy
Neuromodulation Technique
Nutritional Therapy
208
209
211
212
214
215
216
218
219
221
O
Occupational Therapy
Ortho-Bionomy Therapy
Osteopathy
Oxygen Therapy
221
222
224
225
227
P
Panchakarma Therapy
Past Life Regression Therapy
Phage Therapy
Photo Therapy
Photodynamic Therapy
Physical Manipulation Therapy
Physical Medicine
Physiotherapy
Phytotherapy
Pilates
PIP Scans
Play Therapy
Polarity Therapy
Pranic Healing Therapy
Primal Therapy
5
185
186
188
189
190
191
193
194
195
197
198
199
201
202
204
205
206
227
228
230
232
233
235
236
237
239
240
241
243
244
246
247

Prolotherapy
Provocative Therapy
Psychic Therapy
Psychosocial Interventions Therapy
Psychotherapy
Pulmonary Therapy
257
Q
Qigong
Quantum Touch Therapy
257
258
260
R
Radiation Therapy or Radiotherapy
Radionic Diagnosis
Rapid Eye Therapy
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy
Reality Therapy
Rebirthing Therapy
Reconnective Healing Therapy
Recreational Therapy
Reflexology
Reiki
Reparative Therapy
Respiratory Therapy
Retail Therapy
Reverse Therapy
Rolfing Therapy
260
262
263
264
266
267
269
270
272
273
275
276
277
278
279
281
S
Sandplay and Sand Tray Therapy
Seitai
Sex Therapy
Shamanic Healing
Shen Therapy
Shiatsu
Shock Therapy
Sociotherapy
Sonopuncture
Sound Therapy
Speech Therapy
Stress Management Therapy
Structural Energetic Therapy
Swimming Therapy
Systemic Therapy
281
282
283
285
287
288
290
291
292
293
295
296
298
299
301
302
T
Tantric Massage Therapy
TENS Therapy
Therapeutic Touch Therapy
Thermotherapy
Theta Healing
Thought Field Therapy (TFT)
6
249
250
251
253
254
255
302
303
305
306
308
309

Thrombolytic Therapy
Time Line Therapy
Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Trager Approach
Transcendental Meditation
Transpersonal Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy
Tui Na
325
U
Unconditional Positive Regard
325
327
V
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
Vibrational Healing Therapy
Visceral Manipulation Therapy
Visualisation Therapy
327
328
329
331
333
W
Watsu
333
335
336
X
Y
Yoga
Yuen Method
336
338
340
Z
Zero Balancing
Glossary
311
312
313
315
316
318
320
321
323
340
342
Preface
Why I wrote this book
As a practising hypnotherapist, I always have the clients welfare at the forefront of
my mind. And if I feel that the type of therapy that Im offering may not be the best
one for them or their condition, then I always let them know. But its not always easy
to tell this to a client especially if I dont know what to recommend instead.
So rather than just saying sorry and showing them the door leaving them
frustrated and wondering in which direction to turn I felt that I needed to have a
complete toolkit of other possible therapies. That way, I could recommend a more
suitable therapy for them.
How I wrote this book
Thats when I started to search for comprehensive and unbiased information on
other therapies. But, at first, my search was quite futile. All I could find was a handful
of the well known therapies, but not much else was easily available.
So my mission began, starting alphabetically from A to Z. Hours of research turned
into weeks and weeks, and the more I searched, the more diverse were the
therapies I found.
Then, as I gathered information about each therapy, I began to format it under these
different headings, to help me find what I was looking for more easily and quickly:
what the therapy is

how the therapy works
what the therapy can be used for
whether it is an effective form of therapy
whether there are any known side effects to the therapy
where I could seek further information regarding the therapy
Thus I now had a stockpile of some fascinating information which not only proved to
be educational, but also extremely enlightening. In fact, it gradually dawned on me,
what I had unwittingly written was a book. Its a therapy handbook for the therapist,
yes. But this is also a book for the layman who needs to find out about which
possible therapies are available, and how effective they are deemed to be.
So if you do find a therapy in this book that you think may be the solution to a health
problem youve been experiencing, Im pleased to have been of service. But it is
important that you discuss it with your doctor first, before undertaking any course of
treatment.
John Board, DipCAH PNLP C.HT.
TheTherapy Book
8
Introduction
The therapeutic effect
Therapy this one word means so many different things to different people around
the world. For some it may refer to ancient practises that have been used for
thousands of years, while for others it refers to the newest procedures with a strong
founding in modern scientific and medical knowledge.
Whatever it conjures in your mind, the intention of therapy is to provide treatment,
remedy or cure for a health problem. This could be a disease, a skeletal problem, a
muscular problem, a mental problem or indeed anything else that affects the human
body.
There are literally hundreds of different therapies being practiced around the world
and new forms of therapy are being discovered or developed on a frequent basis.
Within the Western world, these therapies usually fit into one or two categories:
conventional, alternative and/or complementary.
What is conventional therapy?
Conventional, or medical, therapies are just that conventional. They are the norm
and have been tried and tested through rigorous research and study, and improved
with time as technology has progressed.
Conventional therapies are those that would usually be recommended by your doctor
and generally speaking, they would be covered by the NHS or private medical
insurance as a recognised form of treatment.
Examples of therapies that are considered to be conventional include chemotherapy,
psychotherapy, radiation therapy and speech therapy, to name just a few. Even with
some of these, though, there are grey areas. Psychotherapy in general is considered
to be an important and effective form of therapy. Yet there are some branches of
psychotherapy that are actually considered to be unconventional and alternative.
However, it should be pointed out that just because a therapy is considered to be
unconventional and alternative does not necessarily mean that it is ineffective,
doesnt work and should be avoided at all costs.
What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?
Complementary and Alternative Therapy or Medicine (also commonly known as
CAM) can include hundreds of therapies which are a little less mainstream than
those above.
Often, though not always, these therapies are debunked by conventional Western
medical practitioners, due to lack of reliable research as to their efficacy. However,
CAM can include therapies which have been used for thousands of years by other
nations and cultures and are still used in everyday life today Ayurveda or
Traditional Chinese Medicine are excellent examples of this.
9
Ayurveda (or ayurvedic medicine) is a complete medical system that is still used
today on the Indian subcontinent, though not just as an alternative or complementary
medicine; this is used in modern hospitals often as the primary health care system.
Although some elements of ayurvedic medicine are becoming more commonplace in
the Western world, it has not as yet benefited from the research necessary to make
this a fully-fledged and recognised form of therapy here.
The same can be said for Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM). Having been used
for thousands of years in China, many of these therapies are now finding their way
into the Western world. And although they are, on the whole, considered to be
alternative, it is surprising just how many TCM therapies are now quite commonplace
and are becoming considered to be more complementary. Acupuncture is a very
good example of this.
So the examples above highlight the fact that just because a therapy is considered to
be alternative or complementary in the Western world, it does not necessarily mean
it doesnt work. It may just be a little different from the norm, or it may be considered
alternative simply because it is a new form of therapy and substantial independent
testing has not yet taken place.
This should not mean that everything labelled as alternative or complementary
should be ignored. On the contrary, sometimes alternative therapies have cured or
relieved conditions where other, more conventional methods have failed. In these
cases, the therapeutic effect has been very good.
What is the therapeutic effect?
A therapeutic effect is a positive consequence produced as a result of any kind of
medical treatment. So for example, it could be the lessening of pain and other
symptoms or, in the best-case scenario, a complete cure. This is in contrast to a side
effect (and hence negative consequence), which may often be experienced in
addition to relief, causing undesirable results.
With conventional therapies, both the therapeutic effect and the side effect will be
well documented and hence the consequences of the therapy will be expected and
explained to the patient before therapy commences.
However, because many alternative and complementary therapies have not been
thoroughly tested within the Western world, often the therapeutic effects and the side
effects are not well documented. This means there is reluctance to try some
alternative therapies and because the therapy may not be very popular, the time and
expense required to thoroughly test them will not be given, resulting in a vicious
circle. Alternative therapies will always remain alternative if there is no effort to
prove whether or not they work.
Frequently, therapeutic effects resulting from alternative therapies are simply
declared by conventional medical practitioners to be a result of the placebo effect.
This suggests that the therapy itself is useless and ineffective for what it is intended,
but that because the patient believes they are receiving effective treatment they
actually benefit from it anyway, in a sort of psychosomatic response.
10
Having said this, it should also be appreciated that some alternative therapies may
not work and patients do not feel any positive outcomes from them at all. But, for
those patients who do experience positive outcomes it could be argued that whether
the therapeutic effect experienced is real, or whether it has occurred as a result of
the placebo effect, the patient has still benefited from it and hence the therapy
should not be discounted.
The main point is that any positive outcome from therapy, whether it is conventional
or alternative therapy, should be considered to be advantageous, provided it is not at
the cost of serious side effects or additional problems.
Are these therapies safe?
Many conventional and alternative therapies are perfectly safe and may produce
only minor and short-lasting side effects.
Because conventional therapies are well documented, these side effects should be
expected and should not be dangerous. But this is not always as easy to judge with
alternative therapies.
For this reason, all patients seeking a practitioner for any type of therapy, whether it
is conventional or alternative, should always first check that the therapy is safe, that
any current health conditions they have will not be affected as a result of the therapy,
and that the practitioner has the proper credentials in order to be administering the
therapy. If all of these guidelines are followed, then both alternative and conventional
therapies should be safe.
In conclusion, although it should be appreciated that not all types of alternative
therapy will be effective, there is no reason to suggest that all therapies grouped
under the alternative banner should not be considered.
It is important to remember that all new types of therapy, whether they are developed
in a medical setting or not, should be considered alternative until they have been
thoroughly tested and until they have been accepted and are used frequently. Only
then can a therapy be considered to be conventional, and hence all therapies will
start life as alternative.
Provided that a therapy is safe and that the side effects produced are minor, any
therapy that results in therapeutic effect should be considered as a form of treatment
and should be given credit as such. After all, only with new therapeutic
developments will cures and treatments be found.
11
Please read this before continuing
Many of the therapies in this book are what are known as complementary or
alternative therapies, and often there is little or no scientific research to prove
whether or not they are effective.
In cases like these, the term often used is no scientific evidence had been found to
determine their efficacy. However, the reader should know that, in many cases, the
term no scientific evidence has been found also means no scientific evidence has
been looked for.
This is because it is a very expensive and time consuming process for a therapy or
treatment to be put through and pass the battery of tests required by the various
medical authorities before they will endorse it, which is why funding for these tests is
usually derived from the pharmaceutical industry.
But there is no vested interest for the pharmaceutical industry to fund an array of
tests into complementary and alternative therapies when they are unlikely to profit
from the results. In other words, the research and testing into most alternative or
complementary therapies will probably not lead to the development of a new and
profitable drug. And in fact, if the therapy is found to be effective, it may even lead
people away from taking prescribed medicines.
If people have been using a therapy for thousands of years, theres a good chance
that it has something to recommend it. Many such therapies are derived from the
East and thus built on a completely different system of science which is not
recognised by modern Western science.
So please bear all of the above in mind when reading the term no evidence has
been found throughout this book, and use your common sense. And the same goes
for the term pseudoscience, which is often said of something that has not been
proven by modern Western science. It does not necessarily mean that its proponents
have tried to find scientific evidence for its efficacy and failed.
Disclaimer
However, nothing in this book is in any way prescriptive, and so you are advised
before undertaking any course of treatment or therapy, of any kind, to always
discuss it first with your doctor.
12
A-Z of therapies
Here you will find a comprehensive A-Z list of health therapies with explanations
about what they are, how they work and how to get more information on them.
Just click on the initial letter for the therapy youre looking for.
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
How to find your way around this book
Its easy to navigate your way around The Therapy Book.
You can either
To A-Z
Use the Blue button on the

page to go back to the A-Z
index of therapy articles.
Use the Back arrow button in

your toolbar to go back to your
previous view. If the Back
button is not displayed, go to
View>Toolbars>More Tools>
and then check the box called
Previous View in the Page
Navigation Toolbar section.
Go back
13
Or you can use the Green

button on the page to go back
to your previous view.
A
Actinotherapy
What is actinotherapy?
Actinotherapy is a type of medical therapy, and it is a general term that may be used
to describe, or in place of, other terms that include radiation therapy and
photodynamic therapy.
The exact definition of actinotherapy can be as simple as the therapeutic use of
ultraviolet light. Or it can mean the treatment of disease (especially cancer) by
exposure to radiation from a radioactive substance.
How does actinotherapy work?
How actinotherapy works depends upon exactly which form of the therapy is being
used. Please see the individual entries for radiation therapy and photodynamic
therapy for further information.
What can actinotherapy be used for?
As stated above, in general terms, actinotherapy is used for the treatment of disease
and most commonly for the treatment of cancer.
Is actinotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Please see the individual entries for information on the effectiveness of
actinotherapy.
Are there any known side effects with actinotherapy?
As above, please see the individual entries for information on the side effects of
actinotherapy.
Where can you find further information on actinotherapy?
As above, please see the individual entries for further information on actinotherapy.
To A-Z
14
Acupressure
What is acupressure?
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses the same
principles as acupuncture. But instead of inserting needles at points around the
body, pressure is applied by hand or via a variety of different devices.
Acupressure has been commonly used in Asia for several thousand years, and like
acupuncture, is only recently becoming accepted as a therapeutic treatment in the
West.
How does acupressure work?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, we all have an energy flowing through our
bodies and this is referred to as our Qi or Chi.
When we become injured or suffer an emotional event, this energy flow can be
interrupted, in turn leading to long-term health issues. By using pressure on the
designated acupoints of the body, this energy can again flow freely, resulting in
aided blood flow and therefore assisting the bodys natural healing processes. This
also results in encouraging a general wellbeing.
The bodys energy circulates via a series of channels, called meridians, which
connect the various acupoints. There are known to be 20 meridians and about 400
acupoints and often, the point at which the acupressure is applied may be nowhere
near the point of the injury.
What can acupressure be used for?
Acupressure can be used as an aid, or to stop, literally hundreds of different
conditions. In addition to promoting a general wellbeing, acupressure can be used
for physical conditions such as a massage therapy: to relieve muscular tension, to
stop headaches, stiff necks and backaches. It can be used to counteract the effects
of hay fever, for example, and to stop feelings of vertigo or to reduce insomnia.
Acupressure also aids with numerous emotional conditions, such as resolving anger,
dispelling fear, healing the body of the effects of grief, improving concentration and
making you less sensitive to what others think of you.
Is acupressure an effective form of therapy?
At present, there have not been enough clinical evaluations to determine whether or
not acupressure is an effective form of therapy. Beyond the assumption that
acupressure therapy acts as a placebo (i.e. that a change in symptoms which occur
as a result of acupressure therapy are based on the power of suggestion alone),
there is no scientific proof that this therapy works.
However, when you consider for how many thousands of years acupressure has
been used in Asia, you would assume that there must be some benefits to this
therapy.
15

Are there any known side effects with acupressure?
There are no recorded side effects as such, just recommendations as to who and
who should not use acupressure. This includes pregnant women and people with a
heart condition, and therapy should not take place just before or within 20 minutes of
completing heavy exercise, bathing or consuming a large meal. It should also not be
relied upon as the sole form of treatment if you are ill and should not be used at an
acupoint where you have a mole, bruise, cut, varicose vein or any break in the skin.
One advantage with acupressure is that you can fairly easily apply the therapy to
yourself as you dont need any special tools or training to do so. However, this
should be done with caution and any warnings described along with the various
acupoint treatments should be heeded.
Where can you find further information on acupressure?
Traditional Chinese Medicine World Foundation
To A-Z
Go back
Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a Western term which means puncturing with needles. It involves
inserting needles into the patient and manipulating them, at any of the 360 or so
points around the body. The needles are far smaller than those used for giving
injections, as they do not need to be hollow and the lengths vary with the type of
treatment.
The origins of acupuncture can be traced back as far as 4,000 years, and it is
thought to have begun in China where the ancient practice of this therapy is known
as classical Chinese acupuncture. Medical doctors in China have been commonly
using acupuncture in hospitals for about the last 50 years, and although this form of
the therapy is referred to as a traditional Chinese medicine, it is actually a
modernised form of the ancient therapy.
Over the last few decades in particular, there has been much interest in acupuncture
in the Western world. So much so that a Western form, called medical acupuncture,
16

has been developed and introduced. This form practiced by Western doctors is more
simplified and its not necessary for them to first study the traditional theories and
techniques as is based on scientific method.
How does acupuncture work?
The traditional Chinese medicine and classical Chinese acupuncture methods are
based on the principle that a persons health is a balance of yin and yang two
opposing but complementary forces: Yin represents the blood and yang represents a
persons vital energy, known as Qi or Chi. In order for these two to function in
harmony, acupuncture serves to encourage the free-flow, or regulate the flow, of
both where required.
In Chinese treatments, the needles which are called filiform needles are
inserted at points of the body that follow the fourteen channels, or meridians, using
the traditionally identified acupuncture points.
In Western medical acupuncture, treatments are based on the scientific method,
using medical knowledge of the body and how our physiology and biochemistry are
affected by the needles. Medical acupuncture therefore has no reference at all to
either the acupuncture points or meridians used in the Chinese therapies.
What can acupuncture be used for?
In China, the most common use of acupuncture today is as an alternative to
anaesthetics during surgery. When inserted at certain points around the body, the
needle serves to block out the pain that would otherwise be felt at the point of
surgery. This is of course very beneficial to patients who might otherwise be at risk
under anaesthetic.
Chinese doctors also find acupuncture useful for the treatment of some types of
heart disease, and for treating high blood pressure, as well as appendicitis and
asthma.
In the Western world, acupuncture is recognised as a complementary therapy to
various conditions, such as acute and chronic pain, anorexia, constipation and
diarrhoea, headache and muscle spasms to name a few. The World Health
Organisation has actually listed around 40 conditions that can be successfully
treated with acupuncture.
Is acupuncture an effective form of therapy?
Opinion is divided as to the effectiveness of acupuncture, be it the traditional
Chinese medicine form or medical acupuncture form, and there are criticisms of
both.
When you consider the fact that this has been a therapy used in China for thousands
of years, you would assume that it must be an effective form of treatment. And whilst
there have been preliminary trials to find out the overall effectiveness of
acupuncture, Western understanding of the Chinese-used acupuncture points is still
very inadequate.
17

Trials have shown that acupuncture might be an effective therapy for preventing
nausea and possibly neck pain and headache. But there is far too little evidence to
support claims that it can help stop people smoking.
Are there any known side effects with acupuncture?
Small effects such as minor bleeding and dizziness are the most common side
effects, though if you have acupuncture therapy with a reputable practitioner who
follows the usual safety guidelines you would expect to find in the Western world you
should not be at risk. However, you should be aware of the injuries that could occur
from improper insertion of the needles, which include:
brain damage
kidney damage
nerve injury
piercing the lung or heart and
pregnancy termination
stroke
But if you have a qualified practitioner, these would be extremely unlikely to happen.
Where can you find further information on acupuncture?
The British Acupuncture Council
The British Medical Acupuncture Society
American Academy of Medical Acupuncture
To A-Z
Go back
Acutonics
What is Acutonics?
Acutonics is a form of alternative therapy that was developed by Donna Carey and
Marjorie de Muynck who have been working together on this since 1995. When
compared to many of the ancient traditional Chinese medicine therapies, on which
this is partly based, this is a very new form of alternative therapy.
18

Acutonics is non-invasive and is said to be a powerful form of re-harmonising the
bodys energy field via the application of sound and vibration. This sound and
vibration is applied by using specially designed tuning forks that are then custommade using space grade aluminium.
Acutonics is the trademarked name of a form of therapy more generally known as
sonopuncture therapy.
How does Acutonics work?
Acutonics uses the energy points identified by Oriental medicine, much like
acupuncture does. But instead of inserting needles, this form of therapy is noninvasive and uses sound and vibration only.
The founders of Acutonics linked the power of music and sound to the healing and
general well-being of the body a premise that goes back thousands of years.
The special tuning forks are struck on an activator and then placed on the relevant
part of the body or may be held near the ears. Because of the ability for sound
waves and vibration to penetrate deep into the body, it is said that Acutonics can be
more effective than traditional medicine at reaching difficult to get to places inside
the body. This in itself would suggest that this form of therapy is far safer than any
type of invasive treatment.
The sound waves then result in stimulating the bodys energy field and hence
promoting both healing and inner well-being, which is said to be vital to a persons
overall well-being.
What can Acutonics be used for?
Comparable to many other similar therapies, Acutonics can be used as a general
tool to aid the bodys spirit. It has also been used to treat a number of other ailments,
very differing in type, such as: respiratory, gynaecological, musculo-skeletal,
urogenital, gastrointestinal, emotional and psychological, in addition to many other
chronic and debilitating conditions.
Is Acutonics an effective form of therapy?
From a scientific and wholly conventional medical viewpoint, there is nothing to
suggest that Acutonics would be an effective form of therapy. As a relatively new
form of therapy, little or no proper scientific testing has taken place to prove or
disprove whether this works and the medical world remains sceptical.
However, there are known to be hundreds of case studies made available to the
general public by the Kairos Institute of Sound Healing. These describe actual cases
where Acutonics has been effectively used as a form of therapy to treat various
ailments. So this in itself suggests that there must be some positive effects from an
Acutonics treatment.
Are there any known side effects with Acutonics?
Acutonics is a painless process as there is very little contact and nothing invasive
about it, so it can therefore be useful at points around the body where acupuncture
for example might be risky.
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There is no evidence to suggest that there are any side effects with Acutonics
therapy.
Where can you find further information on Acutonics?
Wikipedia entry on sonopuncture
Kairos Institute of Sound Therapy
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Adventure Therapy
What is adventure therapy?
Basically speaking, adventure therapy is a form of therapy that puts both adults
and/or children into situations where there is a certain element of perceived risk,
though within a safe environment. The intention of adventure therapy is to build the
participants self-esteem, to encourage cooperative games, problem-solving, trust
building and team building, by introducing them to particular environments that
should elicit a certain type of reaction and behaviour.
Adventure therapy can take the form of wilderness expeditions, adventure-based
outings and long term residential camping.
How does adventure therapy work?
Since the 1930s, there have been camping programmes aimed at troubled youths,
as organisers have realised the potential of presenting the individual to an
environment very different to what they are used to. By giving the individual the
perception that there is a risk of danger if they do not work together, the individual
will come to trust and rely on the other people around them. When the danger is
passed and the task is complete, self-esteem and team building results from it.
The idea behind this form of therapy provided to troubled adolescents of today works
in the same way. It has the benefit of the individual being relatively confined (in that
they are in the middle of nowhere and hence have nowhere to escape to) and
therefore can be easily observed.
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What can adventure therapy be used for?
One of the most prevalent uses for adventure therapy is for adolescent behavioural
issues, for the reasons mentioned above. In addition, adventure therapy can be very
useful for aiding adolescents who have either a drug or drink addiction, again
because they can be closely observed and would have no way or sourcing either
drink or drugs where they are.
Various types of adventure therapy are also very useful for children who are
generally disadvantaged, whether this is for financial reasons or because they have
a disability. Adventure therapy can work particularly well for these groups because of
the increase in self-esteem they usually experience.
Finally, to a certain extent, adventure therapy can be used by companies for their
employees, particularly for team building, though this is not as common.
Is adventure therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been some studies into the effectiveness of adventure therapy, though
these were not really taken far enough to reach a definitive conclusion. There is a
certain amount of theory behind adventure therapy, but this in itself has been
questioned.
However, the many positive outcomes that have occurred following individuals
participating in adventure therapy would tend to suggest that it is effective. The
problem is that its critics want proof as to how it is effective i.e. how it actually
works.
Are there any known side effects with adventure therapy?
As with most outdoor activities, there is always a certain amount of risk involved, and
risk is inherent with this kind of therapy in that the whole point is that youre put in a
situation of perceived danger.
However, danger should only be perceived and not actually likely to result in any
harm, because there are very strict parameters put in place and everything is done in
a safe environment. Having said that, accidents can happen, though the number of
incidents reported as a result of adventure therapy is very low indeed.
Before considering sending a child on an adventure therapy course, you should
carefully investigate the company and make sure that they are reputable and have
all the correct safety guidelines in place.
Where can you find further information on adventure therapy?
Wikipedia entry on adventure therapy
Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society (Canadian based)
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21
Alexander Technique
What is the Alexander Technique?
The Alexander Technique was developed by F. Matthias Alexander between 1890
and 1900. Alexander was experiencing vocal problems which doctors had told him
were not the effect of any medical condition, so he set about trying to find the cause
himself.
When studying himself in the mirror prior to talking, he noticed that his body would
tense up, and hence have an effect on his vocal chords. By realising that this was
the problem, he then spent the next eight years training his body to react differently,
and thereby breaking the habit that he had grown into, and eventually restoring his
voice to what it used to be.
How does the Alexander Technique work?
The Alexander Technique works by re-educating us both physically and mentally to
do common every day things differently and therefore reducing the amount of
unnecessary tension experienced by our bodies.
By breaking particular habits that were not even aware that we have got into, such
as bad posture, i.e. the way we sit or stand, we can alleviate strains that we are
putting on our bodies.
By receiving instruction from a teacher who is trained to know what to look for, you
can begin to enhance your personal performance in many ways. The idea is that
once you have received the instruction and are aware of your problems, you can
continue to help yourself in every day life.
What can the Alexander Technique be used for?
The Alexander Technique is stated to be useful for a large variety of people whether
they have known problems or not.
One of the most common uses is for posture-related pain, such as back and neck
pain caused by bad posture. In addition, it is used by athletes to improve both
breathing and for getting maximum results for minimum effort. Performers use it to
improve poise and voice and people also use it for help with breathing difficulties; for
improved self-reliance and wellbeing; during pregnancies to cope with the change in
body shape and preparing for a stress-free birth; and in the workplace for
understanding effective workplace set-up.
Is the Alexander Technique an effective form of therapy?
Many subjects of the Alexander Technique will testify as to the effectiveness of the
therapy, though in the medical world it is regarded as merely an optional extra to
standard medical treatment and that it should not be used in place of medical
treatment.
However, the NHS (National Health Service UK) do regard the Alexander
Technique as a complementary treatment to such things as repetitive strain injury,
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back problems, stuttering and posture and balance problems, to name a few. But its
effectiveness has not been thoroughly researched. And the limited research that has
been conducted has generally shown that whilst there has been some improvement
with the patient, this was not totally conclusive.
Are there are known side effects with the Alexander Technique?
The first drawback with the Alexander Technique is the length of time it can take to
learn. Commonly between 20 and 40 lessons may be required to reach a desired
effect, which is obviously time-consuming and those learning may become bored or
demoralised with this.
The therapy cannot be used to change structural deformities, but only help the
patient in the way in which they compensate for these and hence aid movement.
Generally there are no side effects, bar one, which is very rare occasionally the
subject or patient may find that by undoing one habit they are opening old emotional
wounds that they came to terms with by developing the habit in the first place. This
could then potentially lead to the requirement for further treatment, sometimes
medical.
Where can you find further information on the Alexander Technique?
The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (UK)
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Amatsu Therapy
What is amatsu therapy?
Amatsu has developed from an ancient Japanese therapy and is used to correct
many musculo-skeletal problems, for pain management and for rehabilitation after
injury. In addition it works to restore general health by addressing physical,
emotional and nutritional stresses on the body.
Its origins go back at least 3000 years, and the present form of amatsu practised
today has only been adapted from the original form following advancements in
knowledge of the human anatomy. Only since 1995 though, has the art of amatsu
been shared with the Western world when Japanese tradition was broken, and there
are now a growing number of trained practitioners here.
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How does amatsu therapy work?
In a hands-on way, amatsu is a form of push, pull massage, working to realign joints.
But practitioners also work with clients by giving nutritional guidance, stress
management and postural management, in order to address the body as a whole.
This is because amatsu is based on the five factors for health and harmony, called
the Godai. These five factors are: physical (musculo-skeletal), emotional (mind),
nutritional (food), energy (life force) and interaction within our environment.
If the five factors of the Godai are balanced, the person will be well balanced,
physically and mentally.
What can amatsu therapy be used for?
There are many problems which can be treated with amatsu, the most common of
which are: back problems, headaches and migraines, sports injuries, sinusitis,
irritable bowel syndrome, sprains and strains and knee problems, to name a few.
When used in conjunction with nutritional consultations, stress management and
postural guidance, amatsu is capable of providing an all-encompassing therapy for
the body, mind and soul.
Is amatsu therapy an effective form of therapy?
You would expect that a form of therapy that has been used for thousands of years
must be effective. Added to this, the fact that amatsu has been adapted along with
medical advancements would suggest that this is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with amatsu therapy?
There are no known side effects with amatsu therapy, and it is in fact safe for people
of all ages, from newborn babies to the elderly.
Practitioners in the UK are specially trained over the course of two years and are
members of the Amatsu Therapy Association (ATA). The ATA is regulated by the
Institute for Complementary Medicine.
Where can you find further information on amatsu therapy?
Amatsu Therapy Association
British School of Traditional Japanese Medicine for amatsu courses
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24
Animal Assisted Therapy

What is animal assisted therapy?
Animal assisted therapy is a type of therapy that involves the use of animals as an
essential part of the persons treatment.
Usually the animal in question will have been chosen because of their own
characteristics, and matched to the persons problem.
Animals typically used are: dogs, cats, rabbits, lizards, elephants, birds, dolphins and
other small animals. Horses are very commonly used for animal assisted therapy,
though this has its own classification, under equine assisted therapy.
How does animal assisted therapy work?
As many pet owners will appreciate, owning a pet can be a very rewarding
experience as well as providing companionship, physical comfort, the increased
opportunity to meet others and instilling responsibility. Animal assisted therapy works
by adopting these same principles.
What can animal assisted therapy be used for?
Animal assisted therapy is thought to be a useful tool for people with mental
difficulties, including autism spectrum syndromes, people with behavioural problems
or medical difficulties and to help promote a general emotional well-being.
For people with physical issues, it can aid fine motor skills and balance, and is also a
useful aid for both educational and motivational purposes by encouraging long or
short-term memory, increasing vocabulary and improving a persons interaction and
involvements with others.
Is animal assisted therapy an effective form of therapy?
There seems to be no doubt as to the advantages of owning and looking after a pet
or pets. Animal assisted therapy is a commonly used form of complementary therapy
to treat a variety of emotional, physical and psychological problems, therefore there
must be substantial advantages to this therapy.
Some analysis has taken place, which has shown moderate improvement in subjects
using animal assisted therapy, though more analysis is needed overall.
Are there any known side effects with animal assisted therapy?
There are no known detrimental side effects to animal assisted therapy, though there
is the possibility of risk being involved, depending on the animal in question.
Dolphin therapy for example, has been highly criticised, both for the possible
dangers to the patient and to the dolphins themselves.
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Where can you find further information on animal assisted therapy?
Wikipedia entry on animal assisted therapy
A resource page from Psych-Net-UK
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Antiretroviral Therapy
What is antiretroviral therapy?
Antiretroviral therapy is a form of treatment of infection by retroviruses, though it is
most commonly associated with the treatment of HIV/AIDS. This therapy is also
known as Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy, or HAART, when several (usually
three or four) different antiretroviral drugs are taken in combination.
Antiretroviral therapy is still a relatively new form of therapy for the treatment of HIV
and AIDS and although it is somewhat readily available in developed countries,
people in developing countries, where the number of those infected is highest, as yet
do not have the access they should to this therapy.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is aiming to provide global access to
antiretroviral therapy in order that all sufferers of HIV/AIDS are able to prolong their
lives.
How does antiretroviral therapy work?
HIV/AIDS is a virus that attacks the host by replicating itself and by making the hosts
immune system open to further attack by other viruses. What antiretroviral therapy
does is to inhibit the replication of the HIV virus. Thus, when drugs are administered
in combination (as with HAART), both the replication of the HIV virus and the
destruction of the immune system can be slowed.
There are different kinds and different combinations of antiretroviral drugs used in
combination antiretroviral therapy, depending on what phase of the viruss lifecycle
the host is in.
What can antiretroviral therapy be used for?
Antiretroviral therapy can be used for the treatment of all retroviruses, though it is
primarily used for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Is antiretroviral therapy an effective form of therapy?
First it should be noted that although antiretroviral therapy is a treatment for the
HIV/AIDS virus it is not a cure and no cure currently exists for this virus. However, it
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is recognised by health organisations around the world, including the WHO, that
antiretroviral therapy is extremely important in the treatment of HIV/AIDS and that
this therapy should be made available to all.
As mentioned, it is not a cure for the disease, but it can help to slow the reproduction
of the virus. By slowing the reproduction this in turn also limits the damage to the
immune system and means that the host is less likely to become infected with other
diseases. The result is a longer and better quality of life.
Are there any known side effects with antiretroviral therapy?
It is a very common problem for patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy to suffer
from side effects, some of which can be serious, though these side effects do vary
with the particular drugs and between patients.
There is a long list of reported side effects with some of the common drugs, just a
few of these include: abdominal pain, headache, hepatitis, liver failure, myopathy,
nausea, pancreatitis, vomiting and xeroderma (dry skin).
Where can you find further information on antiretroviral therapy?
Avert Introduction to HIV and AIDS treatment
BBC News article Many still denied HIV drug access.
WHO Antiretroviral Therapy
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Apitherapy / Bee Venom Therapy

What is apitherapy and bee venom therapy?
Apitherapy is the use of honeybee products for medicinal reasons, to heal or recover
from a variety of illnesses. The products used can include honey, pollen, propolis (a
resin-like substance used to seal small holes in the hive), royal jelly and bee venom.
Apitherapy refers to the general use of bee products, whereas bee venom therapy
includes only the use of bee venom. Apitherapy has been used for thousands of
years, as its known that ancient civilisations appreciated the healing and health
properties of honey in particular. Bee venom therapy is a far newer form of healing,
its properties having been discovered in the late 1800s.
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How does apitherapy and bee venom therapy work?

As mentioned above, the qualities of apitherapy in general have been appreciated
for many thousands of years. But today, when the term apitherapy is used, it more
commonly refers solely to bee venom therapy.
Bee venom therapy works through the active components found within it. The most
pungent of these is melittin, which is a very powerful anti-inflammatory substance.
However, the venom as a whole contains many different proteins and peptides that
would all work together to have a desired effect. Some effects may be neurotoxic or
immunogenic see side effects below.
What can apitherapy and bee venom therapy be used for?
There are over 500 diseases and/or conditions that can be treated or prevented
using apitherapy, according to apitherapy.com. These include allergies,
cardiovascular diseases, blood diseases, neurology, dermatology and cancers.
Bee venom therapy in particular is popularly linked with treatment for autoimmune
diseases and multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as arthritis and tendonitis.
Is apitherapy and bee venom therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is little medical evidence on the effectiveness of apitherapy and bee venom
therapy, although there have been a number of extensive studies performed over the
years. One such study determined to show whether bee venom therapy does in fact
have any positive effect on MS. But rather than prove the positive, many of the mice
subjects actually experienced worsened conditions.
Are there any known side effects with apitherapy and bee venom therapy?
The most important side effect that you must be aware of is the potential for
anaphylactic shock when using bee venom therapy. Anaphylactic shock is the bodys
reaction to an allergen and can be fatal if not treated within minutes as the airways
can be constricted. The problem with this is that you may be allergic to bee stings
but not know. So any bee venom therapy should be taken with the utmost caution.
Where can you find further information on apitherapy and bee venom therapy?
Apitherapy.com
Bees Online
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Aromatherapy
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils and other
aromatic compounds from a large variety of plants.
Aromatherapy is a generally used term that covers a number of different traditions,
including its use as a complementary medicine, and is widely recognised in the
Western world.
But despite origins that go back thousands of years, todays interpretation of
aromatherapy is very much a modernised version with the use of distilled plant
volatiles, and is most popularly used for massage.
How does aromatherapy work?
Aromatherapy is commonly delivered in one of four different ways
aerial diffusion, for example burning oils to help fragrance a room

direct inhalation to aid decongestion and respiration
in vitro, via oral application, the rectum or the vagina
topical application, as used in massages, therapeutic skin care, compresses
or in baths
Aromatherapy can work in one of two ways.

The first is the actual effect that the aroma has on the brain, especially the limbic
system. The limbic system includes the functions of our emotions, behaviours and
long-term memories. The second is the direct pharmacological effect, in other words,
how the oils actually chemically affect the physical body. Different essential oils
would affect different areas.
What can aromatherapy be used for?
As mentioned, probably the most common use for aromatherapy today is as an aid
to massage. The use of different essential oils will stimulate or sensitise the skin,
thereby increasing the muscular benefits which massage promotes.
Aromatherapy oils are now commonly used for burning in homes, to serve as both a
fragrance and for their benefits through inhalation. Users can choose which oils to
burn depending on their current mood and emotions as many of the oils are relaxing.
In France in particular, aromatherapy is regularly used alongside mainstream
medicine for the assisting properties the essential oils provide with, for example,
antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial treatments.
Is aromatherapy an effective form of therapy?
There has so far been insufficient scientific research to suggest that aromatherapy in
general is an effective form of therapy. However, it is widely accepted that the
29

scents, whether released directly as a part of aromatherapy or not, can have a direct
effect on our brains and therefore help with relaxation and mood.
There have been a limited number of studies as to the effectiveness of aromatherapy
when administered in vitro, giving antibacterial and antiviral effects.
As with many alternative therapies, aromatherapy is considered useful by the
medical and scientific world only as a complementary therapy, as there is no proof
that aromatherapy can actually cure any diseases.
Are there any known side effects with aromatherapy?
The key issues with aromatherapy usually occur when the essential oils come into
direct contact with the skin and body. In their undiluted form, essential oils are very
strong and can easily irritate the skin. Generally, oils should always be diluted when
being applied topically, such as for massage.
However, even in their diluted form you may be allergic to it and therefore the person
applying the oil must always check first with a small amount of their diluted oil to see
whether your skin is going to have an adverse reaction before starting the massage,
so that they can choose a different oil if necessary.
It is not recommended that you ingest essential oils because, again, these can have
very adverse effects as some oils are highly toxic to your internal organs. For this
reason, aromatherapy oils should always be kept out of the reach of children.
Where can you find further information on aromatherapy?
The Aromatherapy Council Website
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Art Therapy
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a type of psychotherapy which is used so that the individual client or
group can express themselves and their emotions through the use of various art
materials. The expression of their art is the primary form of communication between
the individual concerned and the art therapist and is hence very useful for people
who have difficulty expressing themselves for whatever reasons.
30
The individuals, or clients, themselves are not expected to have had any previous
artistic experience and are not expected to produce masterpieces. But the art
therapist should be highly trained in this field and will usually have a degree in Art
and have completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Art Therapy.
Art therapy has its roots in the early 1900s, when the first drawing assessment for
psychological purposes was introduced. Further testing came into effect in the 1920s
and again in the 1940s.
How does art therapy work?
Art therapy works in two ways: Firstly, it is used as a direct form of therapy for the
person involved in that being creative and artistic can be both relaxing and
satisfying, thereby promoting emotional well-being and mental health. Secondly, it is
used as a form of communication.
Art therapists are trained to recognise the messages being depicted, so that they can
determine the clients underlying thoughts and feelings and help the client to have a
better understanding of themselves.
What can art therapy be used for?
Art therapy is useful in a number of situations where the client would usually find it
difficult to express themselves verbally, either because they do not have the mental
capability, or because they have an emotional issue which makes it too painful to talk
about, or they simply are not very good at expressing themselves.
However, this is not always the case, because, as mentioned above, art can be
useful as a form of therapy in its own right.
Commonly, art therapists will work with clients who have learning difficulties, whether
they are adults or children, for adult mental health reasons, within child and family
centres, within the prison service and for palliative care.
Is art therapy an effective form of therapy?
Art therapy is effective in so far as it is recognised that by participating in a creative
experience, clients will benefit from the positive effects of this.
Unlike therapies which come under the alternative therapies banner, it should be
remembered that art therapy is a psychotherapy, which deals with emotions rather
than trying to heal physical wounds.
As such, art therapists are highly trained and have gained a recognised qualification
and hence this in itself should be proof that this is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with art therapy?
There are no side effects with art therapy.
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Where can you find further information on art therapy?
The British Association of Art Therapies
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Attachment Therapy
What is attachment therapy?
Attachment therapy can refer to two quite different forms of therapy, both aimed
primarily at children. One is complementary and controversial, whilst the other is far
more mainstream and accepted within psychotherapy circles.
It can be difficult to distinguish between the two, because there is some overlap in
the names, which have been used to describe the therapies.
The mainstream form of therapy has attempted to shy away from the attachment
therapy label because of the controversy surrounding this term, and because this
term is not related to attachment theory in any way. Hence attachment therapy would
usually refer to the following:
Classed as a complementary and alternative medicine and used primarily with
children who are suffering mental health issues, particularly relating to attachment.
For the most part, this refers to children who have suffered the loss of a parent or
primary caregiver and is commonly seen in those who have been fostered and/or
adopted. However, this is a controversial form of therapy and is not practised in
mainstream therapeutic settings.
An alternative name for attachment therapy is rebirthing therapy. Please read the
rebirthing therapy entry for further information on this and attachment therapy in
general.
The second type of attachment therapy is based on actual scientific study and
attachment theory, and is hence a recognised and accepted form of psychotherapy.
For the purpose of distinguishing between the two, we will call this attachment
based interventions therapy, and this will be covered in more detail below.
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How does attachment based interventions therapy work?
There are a number of different approaches to attachment based interventions
therapy:
The Circle of Security is an educational programme aimed at parents and
caregivers to educate them on psychotherapy interventions that can be used with
children who are considered to be at risk of developing normal patterns of
attachment. By educating the caregiver, the child is at a lesser risk of developing
these problems.
Along a similar line is Attachment and Behavioural Catch-Up (or ABC). This is a
training programme aimed chiefly at surrogate caregivers (i.e. foster parents) of
infants and it educates the caregiver on providing nurturance. The New Orleans
Intervention focuses on children under five who have been maltreated and
subsequently placed in foster care and is practiced in the US state of Louisiana.
What can attachment based interventions therapy be used for?
Attachment based interventions therapy, as previously stated, is a type of therapy
designed for children who have been placed into foster care and/or adopted.
This may be following a separation from their birth parents, for whatever reason, and
for treating the mental health issues (particularly related to attachment) which have
arisen as a result.
Is attachment based interventions therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has been a great deal of study into the psychology behind attachment theory,
and though there have been some setbacks caused by the bad name of attachment
therapy, it is recognised that this is an effective and important form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with attachment based interventions
therapy?
There are no known side effects with attachment based interventions therapy.
Where can you find further information on attachment based interventions
therapy?
Wikipedia entry on child psychotherapy
Wikipedia entry on attachment theory
About.com an overview of attachment theory
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33
Aura Therapy
What is aura therapy?
Aura therapy is a non-invasive healing technique, based on the belief that all
humans have an aura or vital energy field. The colours that are identified in a
persons aura reveal what, if any, diseases are present.
Although the origins of aura therapy are not know, there are references to it as long
ago as 5,000 years, as ancient texts have made reference to auras as energy fields.
How does aura therapy work?
There are two major different types of aura therapy: aura colour therapy and
Therapeutic Touch. Aura colour therapy involves directly trying to re-balance a
persons aura, so that the colours they radiate are those of a healthy person. A
healthy person would have a very clear and distinct aura that should have all the
seven colours of the rainbow.
Once it is identified which colours are missing, these colours are introduced either by
irradiating the persons body with coloured lights or by placing coloured gemstones
on the persons body. Clients may also be advised to wear clothing of particular
colours.
Therapeutic Touch (TT) works on the principle that when a person is not healthy,
their aura will have blockages that can be healed through the transfer of energy via
the practitioners hands. The practitioner will identify, using his or her hands, where
the blockages are. Although it is called therapeutic touch, there is no physical
touching involved and the client would be fully clothed. (There is a separate entry on
Therapeutic Touch that has further information on how this therapy works.)
What can aura therapy be used for?
Aura therapy, although described as being a healing technique, does not physically
heal a persons body. Instead, it aims to heal the damage or imbalances being
caused to the persons aura to bring the aura back into physical, emotional, mental
and spiritual balance. Therefore, aura therapy is used more for the purpose of
helping the client to feel well-being and peace, which can include feelings of ecstasy
or spiritual transformation.
Is aura therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, aura therapy is not a form of medical treatment and is not
recognised as a valid form of therapy by the medical world. There have been no real
scientific studies into the validity or efficacy of aura therapy or into the existence of a
human energy field.
It is considered a New Age treatment, and is fairly widely accepted in New Age
circles.
Are there any known side effects with aura therapy?
There are no known side effects or precautions of aura therapy.
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Where can you find further information on aura therapy?

Information specifically related to aura therapy in general is difficult to come by. You
can find more information on Therapeutic Touch under its own entry.
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Aura-Soma
What is aura-soma?
Aura-soma is categorised as an energy therapy that is chiefly based on colour and
divination and the idea that colour itself is a universally understood language.
Vicky Wall, a British pharmacist and chiropodist who claimed that she could see
auras around people as well as around animals and plants, developed aura-soma.
When she became blind, she retained this ability and started developing equilibrium
bottles which would become the centre of the aura-soma therapy.
How does aura-soma work?
Equilibrium bottles are small bottles that are filled with equal amounts of two different
coloured liquids. The bottom half is a mixture of water and herbs, whilst the top half
is essential oils, which by nature floats on top of the water.
At present, there are 107 different equilibrium bottles available, of which four bottles
are chosen by the client. Each bottle is symbolic of emotional, mental and spiritual
attributes that will reveal their gifts, challenges and opportunities. One of these four
is then chosen by the client and used as an ointment on the parts of the body where
the chakras correspond to the colours of the bottle.
What can aura-soma be used for?
Rather than being a physical cure to illness, aura-soma is more a therapy for the
soul. The practitioner, by understanding the equilibrium bottles chosen, can assess
and help the client assess their unconscious mind and essentially counsel the client
with the aim of helping them have a better understanding of themselves.
Is aura-soma an effective form of therapy?
In so far as a client receiving counselling to help them have a better understanding of
themselves, then it could be argued that aura soma is an effective form of therapy.
What is questioned about the effectiveness is the theory behind the equilibrium
bottles and the clients choices.
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Are there any known side effects with aura-soma?
There are no known side effects with auro-soma therapy.
Where can you find further information on aura-soma?
Aura-Soma website
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Auriculotherapy
What is auriculotherapy?
Auriculotherapy is also known as auricular therapy or sometimes ear acupuncture.
However, ear acupuncture is actually quite a different type of therapy. It is based on
the idea that the ear is a micro system and that the whole body can be represented
within the ear, and hence manipulating the ear in some way can treat ailments
across the whole body.
A French doctor, Dr. Paul Nogier, developed auriculotherapy in the 1950s after
noticing a local healer treating sciatica by cauterising the ear. Fascinated by the
correlation, he began to investigate this relationship between the ear and the rest of
the body.
Dr. Nogier created a map to indicate which parts of the ear related to which parts of
the body, which was essentially an inverted foetus.
Auriculotherapy is performed using a number of different implements to stimulate the
different parts of the ear, including needles, electrical stimulation, massage or laser.
How does auriculotherapy work?
By using the determined points in or on the ear that relate to the part of the body
which is diseased, the idea is that this is a form of treatment to alleviate or cure a
problem.
What can auriculotherapy be used for?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), auriculotherapy is an effective
form of treatment for about 300 different conditions, particularly good for treating
addictions and compulsive disorders including eating disorders, OCD (ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), amongst others as
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well as for the treatment of pain. It is said to have a 95 per cent success rate at
stopping people smoking.
Is auriculotherapy an effective form of therapy?
A number of studies have been carried out as to the effectiveness of auriculotherapy,
with varying results. One study in 1984 concluded that it was not an effective
procedure for curing chronic pain. Yet another study in 2006 concluded that
auriculotherapy was effective at significantly reducing the pain suffered and hence
the analgesic consumption required during oocyte aspiration in IVF. So these two
studies do contradict each other somewhat in their findings.
The fact that the WHO has recognised auriculotherapy as an effective form of
treatment and diagnosis would suggest that there must be a certain amount of
credence to its efficacy.
Are there any known side effects with auriculotherapy?
There are no obvious side effects to auriculotherapy. But there will always be a
certain number of risks where the ear is involved. By visiting a practitioner who has
specific experience with auriculotherapy, you should limit the risks involved.
Where can you find further information on auriculotherapy?
Holistic Web Directory of Practices offering Auriculotherapy in the UK
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Australian Flower Essences Therapy

What is Australian flower essences therapy?
Australian flower essences therapy is a flower essences therapy that uses just plants
and flowers native to Australia, and may also be referred to as Australian bush flower
essences.
The idea is that the essences of the flower contain healing properties; healing in the
sense of the word to include mind, soul and spirit, rather than physical therapeutic
healing.
Use of flower essences therapy as a whole has been around since Egyptian times,
and Australian flower essences therapy has been used for generations by Australian
aboriginals. The use of flower essences came more to the forefront in the 1930s
when English physician, Edward Bach, developed remedies which came to be
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known as Bach flower remedies (Bach flower remedies and flower essence
therapies in general are given in more detail in their own entry.)
Australian flower essences therapy is recognised as being an independent form of
the therapy because of the many diverse plant species found in Australia, where
there is the highest number of flowering plants and also some of the oldest in the
world.
How does Australian flower essences therapy work?
Australian flower essences therapy works by encouraging treatment of a problem in
a persons mind, which is where it is thought the root of many physical problems lies.
By creating an infusion from the flower essences that are immersed in water and
then diluted with brandy, flower essences can be taken orally, usually by having a
few drops placed onto or under the tongue. The process of infusion in water is said
to release the healing properties and spiritual elements of the flower which can
nourish and heal the physical body, in turn encouraging the natural healing abilities
of the mind, or vice versa.
What can Australian flower essences therapy be used for?
As mentioned, Australian flower essences therapy works on the basis of the minds
control of the body. This implies that if you are emotionally imbalanced then your
body becomes physically imbalanced too. From this, we can conclude that flower
essences therapy can be used for all sorts of emotional and physical issues. It can
also be used to treat allergies, asthma, arthritis, anxiety, headaches, vomiting and
snoring, amongst others.
Is Australian flower essences therapy an effective form of therapy?
No studies have concluded the efficacy of Australian flower essences therapy, and it
is believed by sceptics that this works only as the result of a placebo effect and
nothing else. Hence if you believe in the possible positive effects from Australian
flower essences therapy, it is worth trying it.
Are there any known side effects with Australian flower essences therapy?
No, Australian flower essences therapy is stated to be perfectly safe and free from
any side effects and is suitable for both adults and children. It is not possible to
overdose, and if the wrong remedy is chosen it simply will not work rather than have
any negative effects on the body.
Where can you find further information on Australian flower essences
therapy?
Internet Health Library entry on Australian flower essences therapy
Infoholix.net list of practitioners
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Authentic Movement Therapy

What is authentic movement therapy?
Authentic movement therapy was started by Mary Starks Whitehouse in the 1950s,
and is an expressive improvisational movement, performed individually or within a
group.
Whitehouse was a trained psychotherapist with an interest in dance, which she
began to integrate into sessions with clients. She developed this further into dance
movement therapy with an emphasis on the principles of Jungs (a Swiss
psychiatrist) active imagination theories.
The process later became called authentic movement because the participants
would move about in an authentic, or genuine manner in other words, the
movements they made were completely spontaneous and un-directed.
How does authentic movement therapy work?
Participants will start in a relaxed and comfortable position with their eyes closed so
that they become aware of their body-mind processes. Shortly after, they would
experience stimuli within themselves that would drive them to movement or to
making sound. This could be movement of any kind, and is basically whatever the
participant feels like doing.
What can authentic movement therapy be used for?
Authentic movement is said to bridge a gap between therapy and meditation and
allow the participant free movement to express their inner selves.
When performed in a group, there will be witnesses and movers. The witnesses do
not try to interpret the movements in any way just observe. And once the
movement is over, the movers can talk about what they felt and what their
experience was like; similar in ways to a group therapy session.
Is authentic movement therapy an effective form of therapy?
Authentic movement therapy relies on the participants being able to see into
themselves and letting go of inhibitions so that they are able to move in a
spontaneous way.
If the participant is not able to do this, for example because they feel embarrassed,
then they will not be able to benefit from the therapy. Therefore it could be argued
that this only becomes effective if participants are of a certain mind-set in the first
place.
Are there any known side effects with authentic movement therapy?
There are no known side effects associated with authentic movement therapy.
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Where can you find further information on authentic movement therapy?
Think through the Body paper on authentic movement
Institute for Integrative Bodywork and Movement Therapy
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Autogenics
What is autogenics?
Autogenics therapy, or autogenic training as it is sometimes known, is a relaxation
technique, which was developed by Dr. Johannes Schultz, a German psychiatrist, in
the early 1930s.
Dr. Schultz had been influenced by the work of a fellow psychiatrist who had
discovered that when patients could induce a self-hypnotic state, they experienced a
general feeling of well-being, and problems such as anxiety or headaches
disappeared.
The technique is practised usually three times a day for about 15 minutes and
involves a series of visualisations that bring about a state of relaxation. The purpose
of the state of relaxation is to help reduce stress and stress-induced psychosomatic
problems i.e. disorders of the mind rather than physiological.
It can be practised in a variety of positions, including sitting and lying, and the client
remains fully clothed throughout, and without the need for any kind of equipment or
apparatus. It is a completely non-invasive type of therapy.
How does autogenics work?
The client will have a number of sessions with the practitioner during which they will
learn a number of body awareness exercises and relaxation. These are techniques
that they can use themselves throughout their life, long after their sessions with a
practitioner have ended.
The idea is that the relaxation techniques help the body to turn off the feelings of
fight and flight, which lead to stress, and bring about a balance of rest and
relaxation.
What can autogenics be used for?
The chief benefit is to alleviate stress, and obviously any problems associated with
stress, as well as insomnia, anxiety and nerves. It is also used to enhance
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performance and healing and to increase overall wellbeing, confidence and selfesteem.
Is autogenics an effective form of therapy?
Some reports suggest that success rates with practitioners of autogenics therapy are
very low, whereas others suggest that scientific studies have shown it to be an
effective tool in preventative medicine and an effective remedy to many different
stress-disorders.
Provided that the client is able to relax their body in the way specified, there is really
no reason to believe that relaxation of the body would not be helpful in some way or
another.
Are there any known side effects with autogenics?
There are no known side effects with autogenics therapy and there are no risks
involved in practising it because the therapy is totally non-invasive.
Where can you find further information on autogenics?
The British Autogenic Society
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Aversion Therapy
What is aversion therapy?
Aversion therapy is very similar to shock therapy, in that it uses shock, as well as
other unpleasant sensations, which practitioners purport help the client to break
unhealthy habitual behaviours or addictions.
How does aversion therapy work?
The client is given some sort of unpleasant stimulus while experiencing the object or
experience that they are habituated to or addicted to.
For example, an alcoholic may have a substance that induces vomiting introduced
into his favourite tipple. A client who chews her nails could have them coated in an
unpleasant-tasting substance. Or a gambling addict may be administered shock
treatment while watching a spinning roulette wheel, or taking part in a game of poker.
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The idea is that any pleasant associations the client has with the habitual behaviour
or addiction will then be eradicated by the unpleasant experience, and thus they will
break the habit, addiction or behaviour.
What can aversion therapy be used for?
Aversion therapy is said by its supporters to be useful for any habit, behaviour or
addiction that a client would like to break free from. This can include:
alcoholism
gambling
nail-biting
smoking
violence
Aversion therapy, like conversion therapy, was also used in the past to help a client
to change their sexual orientation. But this was when homosexuality was considered
to be deviant behaviour. It was not successful in its results and anyway, today,
people are more enlightened about homosexuality. The use of aversion therapy in
such a way is now considered to be a breach of the conduct and professional
guidelines of the main psychology professional associations in the US and in
Europe.
Is aversion therapy an effective form of therapy?
Aversion therapy has had mixed results in tests on its efficacy. When there was
some initial progress made by the client, they tended to return to their undesirable
behaviours or addictions once the deterrent was removed.
However, there is some growing research support for the drug Antabuse, combined
with behaviour therapy, in treating alcoholism.
But most aversion therapists are moving away from using chemicals or electric
shocks as the stimulus. Instead, they are turning to a method known as covert
sensitisation in other words, visualisation techniques.
Are there any known side effects with aversion therapy?
Aversion therapy does not have a good reputation because in the past, some clients
have felt abused by their behaviour being deemed to be a mental illness, particularly
in the case of homosexuals, and there have been several fatalities as a result of
aversion therapy.
In the US, some states are pushing for tougher regulatory control over such
therapies and therapists.
But where the client is voluntarily entering into aversion therapy, and the stimulus
itself is not considered to be harmful to their health, there should be no side effects.
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Where can you find further information on aversion therapy?
Wikipedia article on aversion therapy
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Ayurvedic Medicine
What is ayurvedic medicine?
Ayurvedic medicine, or ayurveda as it is also known, is an ancient alternative
medical system used frequently today on the Indian subcontinent.
The word ayurveda translates roughly as knowledge of life, knowledge of a long
life or science of life. In this case, life (or ayus) refers to the body, mind and soul
and the factors responsible for sustaining the body to prevent decay and death.
Ayurveda is the protection of the ayus through therapeutic measures in order to
retain physical, mental, social and spiritual harmony and is one of the only ancient
systems of medicine that includes a complex form of surgery. The medicinal
element of the therapy comes from the use of minerals, metals, herbs, and vegetable
and animal materials.
Ayurveda is being used in the Western world in more recent years, though is
commonly limited to the use of massage, dietary and herbal advice.
How does ayurvedic medicine work?
Ayurvedic medicine therapy works on the principle that healing and health occurs by
balancing the mind, body and soul. This includes eating the right foods at the right
times, and maintaining purity of the mind and soul as it is believed that the mind
must be clear to enable it to work efficiently in conjunction with the body. The belief
therefore, is that a healthy body results from a healthy mind.
The huge variety of herbs, minerals, metals, chemicals, animal parts, and fruits and
so on all have benefits to different parts of the body, and for curing different
illnesses, though these should be used under consultation with a trained practitioner.
What can ayurvedic medicine be used for?
There are various elements of ayurvedic medicine, though as a generalisation,
ayurveda can be used for just about everything.
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It is a fully recognised medical system of health care in India and is used on a daily
basis. Practitioners there undergo five-and-a-half years of training in ayurveda before
they can practice it.
Is ayurvedic medicine an effective form of therapy?
The fact that this form of medicinal therapy has been used for thousands of years
would tend to suggest that this is an effective form of therapy.
However, in the Western world there has not been substantial testing of its efficacy.
The US based National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine agrees
that trials have not been properly conducted as yet.
Even in India, Western-type scientific trials have not been conducted and hence
scepticism around the world for ayurvedic medicine therapy remains high.
Are there any known side effects with ayurvedic medicine?
There are safety concerns with ayurvedic medicines use of certain herbs, metals
and minerals, and the fact that they could have toxic effects on the body, as well as
other risks. Cases of these problems are well known throughout the medical world.
Where can you find further information on ayurvedic medicine?
Ayurvediccure.com a web portal for ayurveda
Internet Health Library entry on ayurvedic medicine
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B
Bach Flower Remedies and Flower Essence Therapy
What is flower essence therapy?
Flower essence therapy is the use of flower essences to heal the body, mainly
through the mind, by assisting emotional and spiritual balances to correct
imbalances in the body and soul.
Flower essence therapy has been used since Egyptian times in one form or another
and has more recently been adapted into various methods. Bach flower remedies is
one of the key flower essence therapies practiced in many countries around the
world.
Edward Bach, an English physician and homeopath, developed Bach flower
remedies in the 1930s. All but one of the remedies does not affect or treat the
physical body, just the bodys spiritual and emotional conditions.
How does flower essence therapy work?
Flower essence therapy extracts the essence of the flower, commonly by a process
of infusion with water, although for Bach remedies this can also be achieved by
collecting dew from the flowers, or by boiling the flowers.
The essence is then heavily diluted into a mixture that is half water, half brandy. For
this reason, the liquid, which is sold as the essence, does not have any
characteristics, like smell or taste, of the original flower, and the flowers used are
always non-toxic in nature.
The remedies are reported to work by capturing the energetic signature of the
flower involved, which is then transferred to the user. Obviously there are various
different remedies using different plants that are all good for different conditions and
they may be used singly or in conjunction with others.
What can flower essence therapy be used for?
As stated, Bach flower remedies are not used to actually cure physical conditions,
but to help promote a healthy mind and spirit, hence they are useful for such things
as anxiety, insomnia, depression and stress which are diseases of the mind rather
than diseases of the body, though this is not a comprehensive list.
Is flower essence therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been controlled clinical studies of Bach flower remedies and flower
essences therapies in general, none of which have found that these therapies work
in any way other than acting as a placebo.
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Are there any known side effects with flower essence therapy?
There are no known side effects with flower essence therapies or with Bach flower
remedies. This is because the flowers used are not toxic and are heavily diluted prior
to use.
Where can you find further information on flower essence therapy?
Dr. Edward Bach centre, England
The British Association of Flower Essence Producers
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Bates Method
What is the Bates Method?
The Bates Method is the common term used to describe a method developed by Dr
William Bates, an ophthalmologist and physician from the United States, which it was
claimed could give patients better eyesight without the use of glasses.
William Bates (1860-1931) developed a theory around the year 1919, that many eye
problems are the result of strained vision habits and that by helping a patient to relax
these strains, he could improve their eyesight. This theory later became known as
the Bates Method for better eyesight.
How does the Bates Method work?
Bates believed that eyestrain was habitual and originated in the mind. So the main
premise behind the Bates Method was to help patients relax their eyes and hence
the strains being put on them. He believed that this could be achieved if the patient
became self-aware of these strains.
There were several ways in which the Bates Method was recommended.
Flashing is the process whereby the patient repeatedly opens and closes their eyes
in front of an eye chart. It was stated that this would rest the eyes and that when the
patient reopened their eyes they could do so without straining them.
Palming involves placing the palms of the hands over closed eyes so as to achieve
a greater extent of relaxation to correct straining in response to light. Bates claimed
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that if the patient could achieve a state whereby their eyes were not straining to see
whilst palming, they would instead see a field of black.
Visualisation involves visualising an object without strain, as Bates believed that if a
patient could do this, they would also be able to see the object without strain.
Shifting and Swinging is regularly shifting ones gaze from point to point. Bates
believed that it was not good for the eyes to try to focus too hard on one particular
point because the natural reaction of the eyes is to constantly shift their vision.
Sunning involves exposing the closed eyes to sunlight because Bates believed that
much strain was in response to light conditions. He stated that if the eyes are
exposed to sunlight they could unlearn the typical light strain suffered.
What can the Bates Method be used for?
Bates believed that eyestrain was responsible for a great many ophthalmic
problems. These included refractive errors, such as myopia and astigmatism, which
are usually compensated for with glasses; eye conditions such as cataracts,
glaucoma and conjunctivitis; diseases of the optic nerve and retina; and normal
conditions such as floaters.
Is the Bates Method an effective form of therapy?
The Bates Method was controversial when Bates developed his theories and
remains controversial to this day. The methods have not been adequately proved to
improve eyesight and some of his main theories behind the methods were, and still
are, rejected by the mainstream.
Are there any known side effects with the Bates Method?
Whilst most of the Bates Methods are totally harmless, there is some concern for
patients who follow his recommendations. The first is regarding overexposure to
sunlight you should never look at the sun, whether through your hands, with your
eyes closed or even with sunglasses on.
The second concern is that whilst patients try the Bates Method, they are not
seeking conventional treatment and could end up doing more damage with the delay
in seeking attention. The third is that some patients may believe they are doing
themselves good and stop wearing their prescribed glasses.
Where can you find further information on the Bates Method?
BBC Inside Out Natural Vision Correction article
College of Vision Education
Bates Association for Vision Education
Quackwatch Fallacies of the Bates System
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47
Behaviour Therapy
What is behaviour therapy?
Behaviour therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is commonly used to treat
depression, anxiety, phobias and other forms of psychopathology.
Behaviour therapy was first used in the 1950s as a development of the idea that all
human behaviours can be studied scientifically. It was developed in the UK, the USA
and South Africa all at about the same time, though each of these countries had their
own approach.
The most recognised forms of behaviour therapy were by operant conditioning and
respondent conditioning.
In more recent years, behaviour therapy has been linked with cognitive therapy to
form cognitive behaviour therapy, and most recently an area called third generation
behaviour therapy is being particularly studied.
How does behaviour therapy work?
Operant conditioning is based on the idea that an operant (i.e. operator) is
influenced by his or her environment, and that they can modify their voluntary
behaviour to act on consequences.
Respondent conditioning, also known as classical conditioning, is a form of
conditioning to get the patient to react in a certain way to certain stimulus.
What can behaviour therapy be used for?
There are numerous conditions and behavioural problems that behaviour therapy
can be used for. These include eating disorders, such as anorexia and obesity,
substance abuse, depression, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and
relationship assistance.
Is behaviour therapy an effective form of therapy?
Behaviour therapy is recognised as an effective form of therapy and much research
into the effectiveness has been performed since its beginnings in the 1950s.
Many professionals believe that behaviour therapy is at least as effective as
prescribed medication for treating certain disorders like ADHD and depression.
Are there any known side effects with behaviour therapy?
There are no known side effects with behaviour therapy. And in fact it is a far safer
way of treating particular disorders that would usually rely on prescription drugs,
because of the potential problems found with medication, such as overdose and
addiction.
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Where can you find further information on behaviour therapy?

International Association of Behaviour Analysis
British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
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Biofeedback Therapy
What is biofeedback therapy?
Biofeedback is a type of alternative medicine therapy. It is based on the idea that the
patient is able to change the way they react to certain stimulus by recognising how
their body physically reacts to something and thereby being able to change that
reaction.
A psychologist and neuroscientist, called Neal Miller, who discovered that rats could
be trained to control certain bodily functions such as heart rate and blood
pressure introduced the idea of biofeedback to the world in the 1950s when it was
discovered by accident. This was previously believed to be an uncontrollable
physiological process that is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls
such automatic functions as breathing.
How does biofeedback therapy work?
Biofeedback works by measuring a patients bodily functions, for example, heart rate,
blood pressure, sweating, skin temperature and muscle tension, and relaying that
information directly to the patient so that they themselves can observe how their
body is acting and reacting. Usually these bodily functions would be things that we
do automatically and unconsciously. So by seeing them, we are raising awareness
and conscious control over our bodies.
The idea is that when we can see what our body does at any given time, we can
understand and learn to interpret that and change it.
What can biofeedback therapy be used for?
There are a number of ways in which biofeedback therapy can be used depending
on how the bodys functions are being monitored.
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Monitoring by electromyogram (EMG) is the most common form of biofeedback
therapy. Electrodes measure muscle tension, and when the patient can learn to
recognise how tension feels by seeing this on the display, they can learn how to
control this tension. Hence this is used mainly as a relaxation technique to help
headaches, neck pain and backaches, though it can also be used for patient
rehabilitation after suffering a stroke or heart attack.
Other common methods include peripheral skin temperature which can be used for
reducing stress, and frequency and severity of migraines; galvanic skin response
training which can be used to treat emotional disorders such as anxiety, stuttering
and phobias; and heart rate variability (HRV) which is used to treat stress-related
disorders.
Is biofeedback therapy an effective form of therapy?
Whilst the principals behind biofeedback therapy are accepted as being of help to
many conditions, some conditions which have been claimed to be helped by it, such
as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), are viewed as showing potential,
but not actually proven.
However, it is accepted that by teaching the body about how it is acting and reacting
is effective, though biofeedback therapy is criticised as being an expensive way of
doing this. This is because it is believed that the same outcome could be reached by
using self-hypnosis, relaxation training and meditation.
Are there any known side effects with biofeedback therapy?
There are no known side effects with biofeedback therapy, though it may interfere
with some medications, such as insulin, and therefore patients with diabetes should
be careful.
Where can you find further information on biofeedback therapy?
Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback
Mayo Clinic FAQs on biofeedback therapy
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Biorhythms Therapy
What is biorhythms therapy?
Biorhythms are the cycles that our bodies go through on a periodic basis which affect
our physical, emotional and intellectual physiology. Therefore, biorhythms therapy is
the study of these rhythms and acting upon them.
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Three different individuals, who were not associated in any way, first suggested the
theory behind biorhythms between 1897 and 1902.
A professor of psychology noted that fevers and other illnesses were affected by
rhythmic changes in mood and health, and concluded that there was a 23-day
physical cycle and a 28-day emotional cycle. A nose and throat specialist, who whilst
studying illnesses found there also to be a 23-day physical and 28 day emotional
cycle too, reiterated this. A university professor then suggested the correlation
between a rhythmic cycle and brain levels, in that the brains mental ability, the ability
to absorb information and general alertness, ran in a 33-day cycle.
How does biorhythms therapy work?
The idea is that an individual can have a biorhythms chart produced. Or you can
produce the chart yourself if you work out the mathematical theory. The chart is
based and calculated solely on your birth date. The chart shows your physical,
mental and emotional levels which are calculated using the 23, 28 and 33 day
cycle. From the chart, you will be able to calculate which are likely to be your good
days and which will be your bad days.
What can biorhythms therapy be used for?
There is no science behind biorhythms, and the theory is largely hypothetical.
Therefore there is no medical or physiological benefit from having a biorhythms chart
produced. The chart can simply be used as a sort of prediction as to which days you
may feel good about yourself and which days you wont. You can then choose to do
what you like with this information.
Is biorhythms therapy an effective form of therapy?
Biorhythms is not accepted as having any scientific validity and is simply based on
numerology. It is often referred to as pseudoscience.
Although there may be some truth in the fact that our bodies go through cycles,
studies carried out on biorhythms have been inconclusive. Those which have
supported the theory cannot be relied upon because of inaccuracies and statistical
and methodological errors, whilst the majority of studies have simply found the
theory not to be valid.
Are there any known side effects with biorhythms therapy?
There are no side effects with biorhythms therapy.
Where can you find further information on biorhythms therapy?
Biorhythms4u
Personal Biorhythms
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Bowen Technique
What is the Bowen Technique?
The Bowen Technique, or Bowen therapy, is a holistic form of manipulative body
therapy.
To the untrained eye, the Bowen Technique appears to be massage, though in fact
the movements used on the body are quite unique a gentle, rolling motion is used
with very light touches.
A self-proclaimed (i.e. not officially trained) osteopath, named Tom Bowen (19161982), developed the original Bowen therapy in Australia. His technique was then
interpreted by others and has only been used outside of Australia since 1986.
How does the Bowen Technique work?
The Bowen Technique is applied using very light touches around certain points of
the body which are said to stimulate the body to respond by healing itself because
the technique is increasing sensory awareness. A session may last from half an hour
to an hour, and after each point has been stimulated the practitioner will pause for a
couple of minutes before moving on to the next point. The pause is said to allow the
body time to react and benefit.
What can the Bowen Technique be used for?
The Bowen Technique can provide an overall feeling of deep relaxation, and
because it is said to stimulate the body into healing itself it can provide a feeling of
well-being and balance throughout the body. Therefore it is used by people simply to
maintain feelings of wellbeing and relaxation even if they are not suffering from any
ailments.
In addition, the Bowen Technique can also be used to treat certain conditions such
as people overcoming sports injuries or accidents and with a number of other
problems, such as frozen shoulder, headaches, foot problems, menstrual problems,
allergies, asthma, dizziness, incontinence, RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) and skeletal
and muscular problems, to name a few.
Is the Bowen Technique an effective form of therapy?
There have only been three studies into the effectiveness of the Bowen Technique.
The first two had questionable results due to lack of methodology, though
improvements were found in patients being treated with the Bowen technique. The
third study did apply strict methodology but has only recently been presented and
hence the findings are not yet published.
However, the Bowen Technique is now being widely used in the UK, Australia, New
Zealand, and North America and in Europe and, since 1998, has been increasingly
used in primary care in the UK all indications that this is an effective form of
therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with the Bowen Technique?
There are no reported side effects with the Bowen technique. And because this
therapy uses a very light touch there is very little pressure put on the body, and
hence little or no potential for adverse effects.
Where can you find further information on the Bowen Technique?
The Official Bowen Association UK
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Brachytherapy
What is brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is a type of radiotherapy (or radiation therapy) which is commonly
used in patients who have localised cancers, such as prostate cancer, and to treat
cancers of the head and neck.
The term brachytherapy comes from the Greek word brachy, meaning short. The
therapy is performed by placing a radioactive source inside or next to the area to be
treated. This therapy may also be known as endocuriotherapy or sealed source
radiotherapy.
You can read more about other forms of radiation therapy in the radiotherapy article.
How does brachytherapy work?
As mentioned above, brachytherapy uses radioactive sources which are placed
inside or next to the area which needs treatment. There are five main types of
brachytherapy: mold brachytherapy, interstitial brachytherapy, intracavitary
brachytherapy, intravascular brachytherapy and strontium plaque. These treatments
vary according to what is being treated and use different sources of radiation.
Interstitial brachytherapy, for example, uses insertion into tissue and this method is
used for prostate cancer, whilst intracavitary brachytherapy places the radioactive
source into a body cavity. On the other hand, mold brachytherapy uses a sealed
source that is just placed close to the skin but not in contact with it.
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What can brachytherapy be used for?
Brachytherapy is primarily used for localised cancers and those affecting the head
and neck because it can be accurately directed at the cancer with less likelihood of
affecting other tissues in the body.
As mentioned, interstitial brachytherapy may be used for the treatment of prostate
cancer. Intravascular brachytherapy is usually used for coronary in-stent restenosis.
Intracavitary brachytherapy is commonly used for gynaecological issues.
Is brachytherapy an effective form of therapy?
It would appear as though brachytherapy is an effective form of radiation therapy for
the conditions mentioned above, because the radioactive sources can be accurately
placed as required within or near the body. Having said this, there are still risks
involved with this type of radiation therapy (see below).
Are there any known side effects with brachytherapy?
The most common side effects would seem to be from the treatment of prostate
cancer. Some are relatively minor side effects and will pass in a short time, though
others are more serious and may be permanent.
Short term side effects are mostly urinary in nature. Side effects may be produced as
a result of the radioactive seeds that are used, as occasionally these can move out
of the prostate and into the urinary tract.
If this occurs, the urine must be filtered in order to recover the seeds. A far more
serious side effect is impotence. Percentages of men suffering impotence after
treatment are difficult to interpret because they can vary according to the
seriousness of the cancer.
Where can you find further information on brachytherapy?
Cancer Research UK information on brachytherapy for prostate cancer
Prostate Brachytherapy Advisory Group
Wikipedia entry on brachytherapy
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Breathwork and Holotropic Breathwork Therapy

What is breathwork therapy?
Breathwork therapy is a general term used to describe several different forms of
conscious alteration of our breathing patterns when used for psychotherapy or
meditation. One such variant of these is rebirthing-breathwork (which is different to
rebirthing therapy), whilst another, holotropic breathwork, is discussed here.
Holotropic breathwork was developed by a doctor, Stanislav Grof, as a way of selfexploration and healing, based on both modern research combined with mystical and
spiritual traditions and practises. The word holotropic, means moving towards
wholeness.
How does holotropic breathwork therapy work?
Holotropic breathwork involves five stages and is usually done in groups, though can
also be done individually. The five elements are: group process, intensified
breathing, evocative music, focused bodywork and expressive drawing.
Within groups, people work in pairs so that one experiences whilst the other watches
and helps if necessary. The main aim of holotropic breathwork is to reach a
heightened state of self-psychic awareness that in turn aids the psyches natural
healing process.
What can holotropic breathwork therapy be used for?
Holotropic breathwork is reported to induce a higher state of consciousness and,
according to Grof, there are four main categories experienced:
sensory and somatic includes hallucinations, greater awareness of bodily

impulses, and being able to feel where energy is blocked
biographical and individual unconscious can involve revisiting repressed
memories, unresolved conflicts and unintegrated traumas which can benefit
the person by being able to now deal with these
perinatal is experiencing emotions, images and physical sensations
believed to have been felt during birth. Grog believes that our birth is a very
traumatic event and that by having these experiences can release the trauma
and also deeply ingrained negative beliefs which we have had since birth
transpersonal can include having past life memories, out of body
experiences, oneness and spiritual encounters
Is holotropic breathwork therapy an effective form of therapy?

Some studies have shown holotropic breathwork to be an effective form of therapy in
that it produced positive results with some patients for whom other psychotherapy
had not worked. Another study concluded that holotropic breathwork has helped
reduce anxiety and increase self-esteem. However, the therapy has also been
criticised from a medical (see side effects below), and spiritual point of view.
Holotropic breathwork is quite widely considered by sceptics to be nothing more than
a project for believers in psychedelic mysticism.
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Are there any known side effects with holotropic breathwork therapy?
There is concern over the intensified breathing element of holotropic breathwork, as
intensified breathing is essentially forcing oneself to hyperventilate. Hyperventilation
can be dangerous and can lead to seizure and psychosis in some vulnerable people.
Where can you find further information on holotropic breathwork therapy?
Association for Holotropic Breathwork International
International Breathwork Foundation
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C
Chakra Balancing
What is chakra balancing?
Chakra balancing therapy is based on the ancient Indian beliefs of the chakra model;
chakra means a wheel or circle of life.
In both ancient Indian and ancient Chinese healing systems, the chakras play a
central role in the bodys healing. There are six main chakras each one is
positioned along the spine, starting from the base of the spinal column, up to the top
of the skull, and each one relates to a particular colour and to a particular organ or
gland.
When we are healthy, the colours of the chakras are clear and well defined; though
when we are unwell these colours become unclear and will lead to toxins collecting
and causing further problems.
Because the chakras are recognised as so important to the bodys energy, it is
important that they are maintained. Chakra balancing seeks to re-balance and
uphold the chakras so that our bodies have the right conditions in which to heal
themselves.
How does chakra balancing work?
By balancing your chakras, you are encouraging your body to be at its best health,
and this balancing can take place in a number of ways.
Chakra balancing can use colour this could include wearing clothes of a particular
colour and eating foods of a particular colour depending on which of your chakras
needed attention.
Balancing can also be performed through the use of crystals, healing and
hypnotherapy, hence chakra balancing therapy can actually be a culmination of
several other therapies.
What can chakra balancing be used for?
Chakra balancing therapy is not specific to one particular physiological problem.
Rather, it addresses our bodies as a whole and attempts to re-align our centres of
energy (the chakras) to result in an overall feeling of health and wellbeing.
Is chakra balancing an effective form of therapy?
There is wide acceptance of chakras existing in Asia and this is becoming somewhat
accepted in the Western world too. But there is no scientific theory to suggest or
support the notion that chakra balancing therapy is an effective form of therapy.
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It is possible that by using chakra balancing therapy, you will notice positive effects.
However, some believe that any such effect is merely a placebo result.
Are there any known side effects with chakra balancing?
There are no known side effects with chakra balancing therapy.
Where can you find further information on chakra balancing?
Wikipedia entry on the chakra
Worldwide Health article on chakra balancing
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Chelation Therapy
What is chelation therapy?
Chelation therapy is the process by which heavy metals are removed from the body
by the use of chelating agents. It is more recently being used in alternative medicine
to treat several other conditions.
Chelation therapy was first used medically during World War I as a treatment for
poison gas. It was able to remove arsenic from the body which was present in the
gas. Then after World War II, many navy personnel were suffering from lead
poisoning and a different chelating agent was introduced, called EDTA
(Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid).
Over the years several others, used for removal of different metals, have also been
introduced. However EDTA is actually approved in the US for treating lead and other
heavy metal toxicity.
Some chelating agents are used in alternative medicine and also as nutritional
supplements.
How does chelation therapy work?
The chelating agents used in chelation therapy all have attractions to different
metals. When the appropriate agent is introduced to the body (which can be done
intravenously, orally or by injection into a muscle) they chemically bond with the
metal ions and produce a water-soluble substance.
As a water-soluble substance the metal is far less dangerous, and is able to enter
the bloodstream and be excreted naturally from the body.
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What can chelation therapy be used for?
Beyond the obvious uses mentioned above, chelation therapy is also being used in a
number of alternative medicine instances.
EDTA is used by some to treat hardening of the arteries and chronic heart disease,
and has also been used on patients with autism.
Is chelation therapy an effective form of therapy?
Chelation therapy is recognised for its effectiveness as it was originally intended, as
a process to rid the body of toxic heavy metals. However, its use and effectiveness
in alternative medicine is yet to be determined.
As a treatment for coronary heart disease, chelation therapy is currently being
studied, though it will be some years before a report and findings are produced.
As for autism, there is no scientific evidence that chelation therapy is an effective
treatment for autism.
Are there any known side effects with chelation therapy?
Side effects are possible with chelation therapy, though are not the norm; these
could include: headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, fever, drop in blood
pressure and hypocalcaemia and more commonly a burning sensation at the site
of delivery.
If chelation therapy is not administered correctly, side effects can be more serious.
There have been several reports of deaths of patients who were receiving chelation
therapy.
Where can you find further information on chelation therapy?
Internet Health Library entry on chelation therapy
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Chemotherapy
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy, in the most common sense of the word, is a medical treatment that is
used to treat some types of cancer. There are over 70 different drugs available at
this time which may be used independently or in combination, though all of these
have the common purpose of killing cells within the body and hence the cancer.
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Interest in chemotherapy drugs dates from the early 20th century and was actually
the result of chemical warfare research conducted during World War 1 and 2.
Quite by accident, it was discovered that mustard gas was very effective in killing
white blood cells and, seeing the potential for medical advantages, research began
to be conducted. Since then, many other drugs have been developed to treat cancer
and drugs are still being developed frequently today.
How does chemotherapy work?
Chemotherapy may be given to a patient orally, in the form of tablets or capsules, or
may be injected directly into the bloodstream. The drugs then make their way around
the body, looking for cells that are dividing, and then damaging those which are. The
reason why this works is because when humans are fully grown, our cells do not
divide very often (unless they need to, to repair damage); hence chemotherapy
drugs will more often than not be able to seek out the cancerous cells which are
dividing.
When the drugs find a dividing cell, they damage the genes within the nucleus of the
cell. Different drugs target the cells at different stages and hence when more than
one drug is used in combination, there should be more chance of killing the
cancerous cells.
Chemotherapy may also be used alongside other treatments, such as radiotherapy,
or it may be used alone.
What can chemotherapy be used for?
Obviously chemotherapy is used for cancer, but is not effective on all types of
cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, chemotherapy works very well on
testicular cancer and Hodgkins lymphoma.For other cancers, chemotherapy wont
be able to cure it on its own, but may be able to in combination with other treatments.
Sometimes, chemotherapy is used after cancer-removing surgery to reduce the risk
of the cancer returning.
Is chemotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Chemotherapy is recognised as an important and effective form of therapy for
treating certain kinds of cancers, as stated above. And for other cancers it can be
very useful when used in conjunction with other methods of treatment.
Are there any known side effects with chemotherapy?
It is well known that chemotherapy can often produce side effects.
A major reason for side effects happening is because of the way the drugs work. By
targeting cells which are dividing, the drugs are not necessarily only targeting
cancerous cells because there are some cells in the body which are always dividing
and growing; examples of these include the skin, hair follicles, bone marrow and the
lining of the digestive system. Hence, common side effects will include hair loss and
thinning, fatigue and sickness.
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However, it should be noted that different drugs will affect people in different ways,
so not everybody will suffer these common side effects. Further details can be found
by reading the information within the links below.
Where can you find further information on chemotherapy?
Cancer Research UK chemotherapy
Cancer Backup
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Chinese Herbal Medicine

What is Chinese herbal medicine?
Chinese herbal medicine, or Chinese herbology as it is also called, is the production
and prescription of crude medicines based solely on the combination of specific
herbs.
Chinese herbal medicine as a profession has been practiced for hundreds of years,
whilst herbs have actually been used for thousands of years for their medicinal
purposes.
Chinese herbal medicine is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
and like TCM is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world.
How does Chinese herbal medicine work?
Chinese herbal medicine is based on the usage of herbs whose efficacy was
determined thousands of years ago. There are 50 fundamental herbs, i.e. these are
the most important herbs that are essential to the concoctions.
There are two ways in which you can receive Chinese herbal medicine. The first is
by using medicines called Chinese patent medicine, and the second is by visiting a
practitioner and having some medicine produced specifically for you.
Chinese patent medicine is basically pre-mixed herbal formulas made into tablet
form for ease. These are standardised medicines, so would be ones that are used
for the most common of ailments, though they obviously cannot be tailored to the
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individual. These are available from a variety of suppliers on the internet and
sometimes in health food stores.
Or, by visiting a practitioner, you will receive a Chinese herbal medicine that is
unique to your illness or problem and will be produced by the practitioner on the
spot.
What can Chinese herbal medicine be used for?
Chinese herbal medicine can be used for treating literally hundreds of different
conditions, including: coughs and colds, rheumatism, infertility, ulcers and tumours,
reducing anxiety, constipation and to promote digestion, to name just a few.
Is Chinese herbal medicine an effective form of therapy?
As with traditional Chinese medicine as a whole, Chinese herbal medicine has been
used for many centuries, which would tend to suggest that it is effective as a form of
treatment for many ailments.
In the West, Chinese herbal medicine is considered to be an alternative form of
medicine which may be complementary to other treatments, although there is
generally no medical grounding for its effectiveness.
More and more studies are being conducted to check this, though.
Are there any known side effects with Chinese herbal medicine?
Many herbs used in Chinese herbal medicine can be toxic to the human body.
Usually if toxic herbs are used as the main ingredients, other ingredients are then
given to counteract the toxicity and therefore avoid further problems.
For this reason, if you are visiting a practitioner you should be sure that they are
highly experienced and have the skills necessary to treat you effectively, and to
ensure that they can take the steps necessary to protect you from harm.
Where can you find further information on Chinese herbal medicine?
Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine UK
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine.com
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Chiropractic Therapy
What is chiropractic therapy?
Chiropractic is an alternative and complementary form of therapy that concentrates
on the musculoskeletal system and the effects this has on the nervous system and
health in general. In this respect, chiropractic therapy is also a holistic therapy.
The term chiropractic comes from the Greek, meaning hand concerned with action,
and was developed in the 1890s by D.D. Palmer. Palmer was interested in a
number of health philosophies and having reputedly helped a deaf man regain his
hearing, he surmised that disrupted nerve flow was the cause of all disease and that
misaligned spinal vertebrae affected the nerve flow. Hence, he concluded that
realigning these would bring back good health.
Palmer went on to form the Palmer School of Chiropractic in 1897 where he trained
others in his methods. Later, his son, B.J. Palmer, followed in his fathers footsteps.
Chiropractic therapy has always been considered to be complementary and
alternative, although this form of therapy has become far more widely accepted over
the last few decades.
How does chiropractic therapy work?
There are two schools of chiropractic therapy currently in existence. The more
traditional, though less common, type of chiropractor is known as straight and
follows the ideologies developed by Palmer, which include metaphysical definitions
and vitalistic qualities. The second type of chiropractor is known as a mixer. These
therapists work more alongside mainstream medical practices and may also use
osteopathic and naturopathic ideas.
There are a variety of treatment techniques that chiropractors can use. The most
commonly used technique is spinal manipulation. This involves taking the joint past
the normal range of movement, then using a sudden force creating a release
accompanied by an audible sound.
Other procedures used in chiropractic therapy include giving nutritional and dietary
recommendations, encouraging physical fitness and exercise, Trigger Point Therapy
and postural advice.
What can chiropractic therapy be used for?
Most commonly, patients seek chiropractic therapy because of back and neck pains
and other neuromusculoskeletal problems. The most common issue addressed by
chiropractors is lower back pain.
Is chiropractic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Because there has been quite considerable debate as to whether chiropractic
therapy is just pseudoscience, there have been many wasted years when proper
research and scientific study could have taken place. Chiropractic therapy is only
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really now being seriously considered as an effective form of treatment and research
is being conducted, mainly into spinal manipulation.
Generally, opinion is mixed as to the efficacy of chiropractic therapy and most
research to date has not been entirely conclusive either way.
Are there any known side effects with chiropractic therapy?
Chiropractic therapy is generally a safe form of therapy, and provided that you use a
qualified chiropractor who takes the time to discover your health history, you should
not suffer any side effects.
Spinal manipulation can often result in increased pain, though this should be
temporary in nature. Rarely, far more serious complications can arise, resulting in
permanent disability and even death.
There are also contraindications that should be observed, such as rheumatoid
arthritis and osteoporosis, though, as above, a competent practitioner should
highlight these.
Where can you find further information on chiropractic therapy?
The General Chiropractic Council
Action for Victims of Chiropractic
Wikipedia entry on chiropractic
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Cognitive Analytic Therapy

What is cognitive analytic therapy?
Cognitive analytic therapy was developed using mainly the ideas behind cognitive
therapy as well as an amount of psychoanalytic therapy by Dr. Anthony Ryle
primarily for use in the UKs National Health Service.
It is whats known as a brief or short-term therapy and is hence designed to be used
with a patient or client over a specified, relatively short time period (when compared
to other conventional psychotherapies which can last a lot longer). The reasoning
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behind this method is so that it can be used within the NHS where funding is limited
and so that as many patients as possible can be treated in an affordable manner.
Cognitive analytic therapy is now being used across the UK and in several European
countries too.
How does cognitive analytic therapy work?
Cognitive analytic therapy works by using the same principles as cognitive therapy
(which has its own entry).
The therapist and client work together, making this very much a two-way process, to
find out how problems the client has had in the past were coped with and how this
now affects their everyday lives. By recognising the coping procedures that are in
place, they can be changed and improved into a more positive framework.
Because both the therapist and the client are very involved, the client has the
opportunity to become more understanding of the processes which are affecting
them and is able to gain skills that they can use long after the treatment has finished.
Therapy usually lasts for between four and twenty-four sessions, though the norm is
sixteen sessions.
What can cognitive analytic therapy be used for?
Cognitive analytic therapy is being used with a range of disorders, though is
particularly recognised for its use with depression, anxiety and personal and
relationship problems.
Is cognitive analytic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Having been used in the NHS for some years now and also being used in private
settings across the UK and into Europe, it would tend to suggest that cognitive
analytic therapy is an effective form of therapy for the above-mentioned problems.
Are there any known side effects with cognitive analytic therapy?
There are no known side effects with cognitive analytic therapy.
Where can you find further information on cognitive analytic therapy?
Association for Cognitive Analytic Therapy
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Cognitive Therapy
What is cognitive therapy?
Cognitive therapy is a psychotherapy developed by Aaron Beck, a psychiatrist, in the
1960s.
Psychotherapy had previously focused on trying to determine what the patient was
unconsciously feeling and being driven by (known as behaviourism). But Beck
believed that it was what the patient actually thought and how they interpreted things
that were the key a term scientifically called cognition to therapy.
Beck focused initially on depression and came to several conclusions about the
driving force behind depression, which included the fact that the patient will have
selective abstraction, over-generalisation, magnification of negative factors and
minimisation of positive factors in their lives. Cognitive therapy therefore attempts to
identify and change these ways of thinking and hence to influence the patients
emotions and behaviour.
Cognitive therapy is sometimes treated in addition to using elements of behavioural
therapy, and this form of therapy is hence called cognitive behavioural therapy.
How does cognitive therapy work?
Cognitive therapy works usually on a one-to-one basis between therapist and client
and begins with determining the clients thoughts and beliefs and evaluating the
validity of them. For example, if the client makes a statement, there will be a
discussion to evaluate whether there is any truth to the statement.
Next the therapist will assess what the client expects and/or predicts, followed by
assessing what the client acknowledges as the cause for certain events. In this way,
the therapist can help the client to understand why they are feeling the way they are,
sometimes by making an association with an event in their past, such as loss,
rejection or criticism.
What can cognitive therapy be used for?
Cognitive therapy is most helpful for treating depression and is actually considered
as the most accurate psychological theory of depression.
It can also be used for similar problems such as anxiety and for general personal
and relationship problems.
Is cognitive therapy an effective form of therapy?
As cognitive therapy is recognised as the most accurate theory for the causes of
depression, then it is safe to say that this is an effective form of therapy for treating
depression in particular and is commonly practiced throughout the Western world to
this day.
Are there any known side effects with cognitive therapy?
There are no known side effects with cognitive therapy.
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Where can you find further information on cognitive therapy?

Cognitive Therapy Today
The Beck Institute
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Coherence Therapy
What is coherence therapy?
Coherence therapy is quite a new form of psychotherapy based on the theory that
behaviour and symptoms of mood and thought are coherently produced by the body.
Coherence therapy was developed in the 1980s and 1990s by Bruce Ecker and
Laurel Hulley after they analysed the effectiveness of a number of psychotherapy
sessions. They were interested to find out why it was that some sessions had no
effect on the client whereas a small number had outstanding effects for the better.
By studying the successful sessions they were able to reach conclusions as to why
this occurred. It was that the therapist did not get involved in trying to counteract the
symptom, and would basically let the client recognise for themselves a powerful
event which was causing them to have the symptom.
They began using this idea in their own therapy sessions and produced very
successful and fast results.
How does coherence therapy work?
Coherence therapy is based on the principle that our bodies react in a certain way to
certain events as a kind of coping mechanism, and that this process is coherent in
that the body knows what it is doing, even though to our minds this process can be
unconscious.
In contrast to many types of psychotherapy which attempt to change the clients
symptoms because they are thought of as being irrational and disorderly, coherence
therapy actually embraces the symptoms as being sensible and logical and are there
as a way of coping.
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The therapist essentially leaves the client to reach conclusions, and by doing so they
will go through a process of change and the symptom becomes no longer necessary.
What can coherence therapy be used for?
Coherence therapy can be used to treat depression and a number of other
emotionally caused disorders, such as: anxiety, agoraphobia, alcoholism,
compulsive behaviour, sexual problems, attention deficit, bereavement problems,
eating problems, interpersonal problems and others.
Is coherence therapy an effective form of therapy?
As a relatively new form of therapy, there have not been any significant independent
studies into coherence therapy effectiveness, though its developers do claim very
good results.
Currently, coherence therapy is considered to be one of the most well respected
forms of post-modern therapies.
Are there any known side effects with coherence therapy?
There are no known side effects with coherence therapy.
Where can you find further information on coherence therapy?
Coherence Therapy.org
Psych Resources.net
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Colloidal Silver Therapy

What is colloidal silver therapy?
Colloidal silver is a liquid containing microscopic particles of silver that was
historically used by the medical profession as a mainstream antibiotic.
It was found that at a particular concentration of colloidal silver (five parts per million
or higher) that it could kill many different infectious bacteria and was therefore very
useful as an antibiotic. It was commonly used up until about 1938. But the methods
for producing it were costly and pharmaceutical companies looked to other, cheaper
drugs.
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Colloidal silver has more recently made a come-back for people seeking alternative
medicines, though anyone considering its use should take note of the warnings and
side effects below.
How does colloidal silver therapy work?
In terms of killing bacteria, colloidal silver works by slowing down the production of
enzymes and other proteins and may have this effect on human enzymes too.
What can colloidal silver therapy be used for?
Colloidal silver was historically used as an antibiotic and apparently kills up to 650
known bacteria, including very serious diseases such as cholera, malaria, diabetes
and syphilis, as well as being useful for treating burns and skin conditions.
Is colloidal silver therapy an effective form of therapy?
Despite having been used in the early 20th century in mainstream medicine, colloidal
silver has not been properly tested using todays standards.This means that there is
no overriding evidence to suggest that colloidal silver is actually an effective form of
therapy for any of the above-mentioned conditions, although it is being used in
alternative medicine circles to some effect.
Basically, there may be some truth to its efficacy, but it is not available over the
counter as a product that has a therapeutic value. In the US, the FDA (Food and
Drug Administration) has banned any products that have not been extensively tested
for safety and effectiveness, including colloidal silver. This means that the product is
only available as a dietary supplement and cannot be sold by anyone (in the US)
who is claiming that it has therapeutic value.
Are there any known side effects with colloidal silver therapy?
The use of silver products in general can be very dangerous, and hence any use of
colloidal silver or any other silver products should be done with extreme caution.
A condition called argyria is known to be commonly associated with silver products,
including colloidal silver, which is thought to occur both through ingestion and by
application to the skin.
One symptom of argyria is discoloration of the skin, though argyria has also been
known to lead to death. Other reported conditions include brain and nerve damage,
kidney damage, stomach upset and headaches.
Where can you find further information on colloidal silver therapy?
Colloidal Silver Information and Uses
UK Colloidal Silver Products
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Colon Hydrotherapy or Colonic Irrigation

What is colon hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy may also be referred to as colonic Irrigation or simply as a
colonic.
It is an alternative medicine type of therapy which is not recognised by the medical
world as having any real benefit on an everyday level, though it may be prescribed
as a treatment for constipation.
Around the beginning of the 20th century, colon hydrotherapy was actually quite
commonly used as doctors were more interested in the benefits of cleansing the
colon. However, the procedure fell by the wayside as surgical procedures became
more commonplace, and has only in more recent years made a return as an
alternative therapy.
How does colon hydrotherapy work?
Lying on your side, a tube is inserted into the rectum and warm water is passed
through it. This water then circulates around the colon which encourages it to empty
its contents; a process which is also aided by the therapist gently massaging the
abdomen. Waste products then leave the colon via the tube.
The process usually lasts for about 45 minutes, though this depends on the
individual. If the therapist thinks its worthwhile, the process will continue as
necessary or may be shorter.
What can colon hydrotherapy be used for?
Colon hydrotherapy as a recognised treatment by the medical world is generally only
used to treat severe cases of constipation.
In alternative medicine colon hydrotherapy is thought to be useful for cleansing and
detoxifying the body of faecal matter which collects over time in the large intestine. It
is thought by some, that allowing this matter to remain inside the body can be
harmful and poisonous to it.
As well as the overall positive effect of colon hydrotherapy, it is also believed to be
useful for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea,
constipation, allergies, fatigue, multiple sclerosis and back pain.
Is colon hydrotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Aside from being recognised as an effective form of therapy for constipation, colon
hydrotherapy has not been proved to be useful for any of the other conditions stated
above and although the process is gaining in popularity, there is actually no scientific
support or medical evidence to back the general effectiveness of colon hydrotherapy.
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Are there any known side effects with colon hydrotherapy?
In general, colon hydrotherapy is a safe procedure and if performed by a
professional hydrotherapist there should be no problems. The only side effect is that
sometimes it can take a few days for regular bowel movements to start again.
There are reports of deaths following colon hydrotherapy in the 1980s, though these
were as a result of unsanitary conditions.
Where can you find further information on colon hydrotherapy?
The Guild of Colon Hydrotherapists
Association and Register of Colon Hydrotherapists
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Colour Therapy
What is colour therapy?
Colour therapy is an alternative medicine based on the assumption that colour and
light can be used to balance a persons bodily energy, whether they are lacking
physical, emotional, mental or spiritual energy.
Colour therapy has ancient roots, as references have been found to it in ancient
Egyptian culture, and traditional Chinese medicine refers to the different colours in
the body which correspond to different organs. The chakra of ancient Indian
therapies is also colour related.
Colour therapy is also referred to as chromotherapy or colourology.
How does colour therapy work?
By applying colour and light to certain parts of the body, it is believed to be able to
heal the bodys problems. Some practitioners believe that applying the wrong colour
and light can have negative effects, and hence it is very important that the right
combination is used.
Colour can be applied to acupoints (the same points as used in acupuncture), by a
variety of means and devices including coloured fabrics, gemstones and candles or
via a special machine called a Bioptron, which uses coloured lenses.
Treatment may also be given in combination with hydrotherapy and aromatherapy
for added effect.
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What can colour therapy be used for?

Colour therapy is said to be good for general health and wellbeing, though there are
also specific conditions which the seven colours can be used for. These include:
red is said to be the colour of life and is good for circulatory functions and
anaemia amongst others
orange is said to make us alert and cheerful and apparently is used to
positive effect for treating mental illness and depression
yellow is said to assist with the metabolism and glandular activity
green is said to assist bronchitis and whooping cough as well as diabetes
and generally help with secretion
blue this is a relaxing colour which is said to alleviate headaches and
migraines, stomach pains and cramps and is generally said to help with all
sorts of pain
indigo this is a cooling colour and is used for treating eyes, nose, ears and
mental problems
violet is said to be a meditative colour and is used for treating the lymphatic
system and the spleen. It is also used to calm the nervous system, relax
muscles and soothe organs
Is colour therapy an effective form of therapy?

There have not been proper methodological or analytical studies performed on the
effectiveness of colour therapy, and tests which have been performed have been
questioned as unverifiable and as using selection bias.
Colour therapy is not recognised by the medical world as an effective form of
treatment and is thought by many to be pseudoscience, who also suggests that any
positive outcome could just be a placebo effect.
Are there any known side effects with colour therapy?
There are no known side effects with colour therapy.
Where can you find further information on colour therapy?
International Association of Colour
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Conversion Therapy
What is conversion therapy?
Conversion therapy is also known as reparative therapy or sexual reorientation
therapy, and is a therapy designed to convert homosexual men and women into
heterosexuals.
In the late 1800s, some believed that homosexuality was a disease and that it could
therefore be cured by various techniques. Hence a huge plethora of methods were
tried to convert people into being what was considered normal.
The 1950s and 1960s saw the height of conversion therapy, until the early 1970s
when homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder. Since then, any
conversion therapy is now being frowned upon, and in both the US and the UK it is
believed that conversion therapy does not help and can in fact be dangerous.
How does conversion therapy work?
As mentioned above, many different techniques have been tried for conversion
therapy, so the way it works really depends on which technique is being used.
These have included various surgical procedures including hysterectomy,
vasectomy, castration and lobotomy; Use of drugs such as:
hormone treatment
aversion therapy which involves exposure to a stimulus whilst at the same
time being subjected to some form of discomfort
electroshock treatment
psychoanalysis
Electric shock treatment and the use of nausea-inducing drugs are still used by
some therapists today, and this is known as aversion therapy. But mostly conversion
therapy performed today is by psychoanalytic conversion. This involves investigating
unconscious parts of a patients mind and bringing these to the conscious mind.
What can conversion therapy be used for?
Conversion therapy is basically for the use of converting the sexual orientation of
homosexual people, whether they are gay, lesbian or bi-sexual, into heterosexuals
and eradicating their same-sex desires and behaviours.
The main use of conversion therapy these days is in order to give a choice to men
and women who are homosexually inclined, but who wish to change because they
are unhappy with this.
Is conversion therapy an effective form of therapy?
It is generally regarded in both the medical and mental health worlds that conversion
therapy has little or no effect in changing a patients sexual orientation, and some
treatments are even considered to be dangerous.
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Are there any known side effects with conversion therapy?

Some methods of conversion therapy treatment are considered to be potentially
harmful, such as electro-shock treatment. In addition, other forms of treatment are
thought to be harmful to a patients mental health because they encourage feelings
of guilt and anxiety.
Where can you find further information on conversion therapy?
Pro conversion therapy
National Association for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality
People Can Change
Against conversion therapy
American Counselling Association
American Psychiatric Association
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Counselling Therapy
What is counselling therapy?
Counselling therapy covers a very broad spectrum of therapies designed to help
people get through problems faced in their everyday lives people who are, for all
intents and purposes, perfectly healthy in mind and body, and simply need some
help coping with a particular problem.
The term counselling was first used in 1908 by Frank Parsons, a teacher and writer
on social reform. There are now many definitions of counselling therapy, depending
on what it is being used for and depending also on how the counsellor or therapist
prefers to define what they do.
How does counselling therapy work?
Counselling therapy is generally regarded as a form of counselling which helps
people who are otherwise sound in themselves. So it differs from some forms of
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psychotherapy where the patient or client is considered to have an underlying mental
problem.The main driving force behind counselling therapy is the idea that a
problem shared is a problem halved. Most of the time, a client will visit a trained
counsellor who will simply listen to their troubles without interfering, making any
assumptions or criticising.
Many people find that simply talking about their problems does help to overcome
them although, of course, a counsellor is also trained to help people come to terms
with issues and to move on, for example if they have suffered a loss. For other types
of counselling therapy, the counsellor is trained to offer help and advice.
What can counselling therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, counselling therapy covers a very broad spectrum and can
therefore be used for a huge number of problems and issues.
Some of the more obvious forms of counselling are: family and relationships, grief
counselling, marriage counselling, trauma counselling, student counselling,
pregnancy options counselling, sexual counselling.
It should be remembered that counselling therapy is not just for emotionally related
problems. It can cover a whole host of other areas too, for example: career
counselling, credit counselling and vocational counselling.
Is counselling therapy an effective form of therapy?
Counselling therapy in general is considered to be a very effective form of therapy
which is practised and accepted across the Western world. Charities like Relate
have an excellent reputation for offering relationship counselling and sex therapy in
particular to the general population.
Are there any known side effects with counselling therapy?
There are no known side effects with counselling therapy.
Where can you find further information on counselling therapy?
Being such a wide and varied form of therapy, it is difficult to specify one particular
source, although here are a couple of links to websites which may be of some use:
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Relate
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Cranio-Sacral Therapy
What is cranio-sacral therapy?
Cranio-sacral therapy (sometimes referred to as craniosacral or cranial osteopathy)
is an alternative form of medicine which is often also used as a complementary
medicine to other therapies, such as massage and chiropractics.
Cranio-sacral therapy was developed by an American osteopath, named Dr. William
Sutherland, in the early 1900s. Whilst studying osteopathy, it struck him that the
bones in our skulls were actually able to move and that these movements were
directly related to our physical, mental and emotional health.
It was believed that when these bones are restricted in their movement, it affects our
bodys natural ability for self-healing and in turn can lead to deeper problems both
physically and mentally.
How does cranio-sacral therapy work?
Cranio-sacral therapy is performed on a person who is fully clothed and usually lying
down, face up. The therapy will last about an hour and begins with the therapist
gently placing their hands on the body in an attempt to tune in to the body and its
workings and to analyse the cranial rhythm.
The therapist will then attempt to change the cranial rhythm, usually resulting in a
feeling of deep relaxation. Further sessions are usually advised, during which the
relaxation will occur again, in addition to the release of tension which extends
beyond the therapy session.
What can cranio-sacral therapy be used for?
As well as promoting a general well-being, raising vitality and aiding the body to selfheal, cranio-sacral therapy can be used for a number of other conditions, including
physical pains, diseases, emotional and psychological disturbances.
It is said to be suitable for people of all ages and conditions, including babies and
children and the elderly and frail because the treatment is so gentle and noninvasive.
Some of the conditions which cranio-sacral therapy is said to have helped include:
autism, back pain, bronchitis, depression, dyslexia, frozen shoulder, hyperactivity,
immune system disorders, insomnia, migraine, spinal curvatures, sports injuries, and
stress-related illness amongst others.
Is cranio-sacral therapy an effective form of therapy?
There are a number of criticisms with regard to the effectiveness of cranio-sacral
therapy, which dispute the background theory of the therapy and also the practice of
the therapy.
These criticisms include the fact that there is no scientific evidence for the existence
of cranial bone movement as stated by Dr. Sutherland. There is also no evidence to
suggest that the body has a cranial rhythm and that this is in any way related to
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disease and our general health. Finally, there is a lack of scientific evidence to
suggest that therapists are actually able to detect a cranial rhythm.
Are there any known side effects with cranio-sacral therapy?
There are generally no side effects with cranio-sacral therapy, and only a very small
proportion of people have ever experienced any side effects.
It should be noted that cranio-sacral therapy is not regulated either in the UK or in
the US which means that there is no legal requirement for therapists to be trained.
There are, however, two organisations in the UK that offer training courses and
accreditation, so if you are seeking a therapist you would be advised to find one who
is qualified. Please refer to the websites below.
Where can you find further information on cranio-sacral therapy?
The Craniosacral Therapy Association of the UK
The Cranio Sacral Society
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Crystal Therapy
What is crystal therapy?
Crystal therapy (or crystal healing, as it is also referred to) is an alternative healing
therapy based on ancient beliefs that crystals have healing and spiritual powers.
Crystals, or charm stones, used by different cultures were either naturally occurring
or sometimes manufactured, as in the case of some Mayan archaeological finds.
The most direct reference to crystal healing can be found in ancient Egypt, and there
are also references to it in India and in traditional Chinese medicine, dating back
about 5,000 years.
Crystal therapy has more recently been adopted as an alternative therapy by New
Age healers in the Western world.
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How does crystal therapy work?
Crystal therapy works on the assumption that all humans have an energy field, and
that when we are unwell, this field becomes unbalanced and we lose our bodys
natural rhythm.
It is believed that crystal therapy can help the body to become re-attuned and rebalanced and hence find its natural rhythm again. This is because crystals have such
perfect atomic structures and it is alleged that they resonate this perfection. Hence
when a crystal is in close proximity to the body, it will channel this perfection through,
encouraging the body to heal itself.
What can crystal therapy be used for?
Crystal therapy is used on a wide scale for general well-being, both physically and
mentally. It is said to be able to bring deep levels of relaxation, and hence is also
very useful for meditation purposes. Deep relaxation encourages the body to relax
and heal and aids in stress relief.
Crystal therapy is often used on an amateur level, though there are also trained
practitioners who are said to be able to channel the energy from the crystals more
effectively.
Is crystal therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is no scientific or medical evidence to suggest that crystal therapy is an
effective form of therapy or healing and it is generally considered by the medical
and scientific world to be a pseudoscience.
Crystal therapy is an alternative and complementary medicine and should not be
used in place of proper physiological care.
It is believed that any positive effects from using crystal therapy are merely a
placebo effect.
Are there any known side effects with crystal therapy?
There are no known side effects with crystal therapy.
Where can you find further information on crystal therapy?
The Affiliation of Crystal Healing Organisations
The Sceptics Dictionary on Crystal Power
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Cupping Therapy
What is cupping therapy?
Cupping therapy, or fire cupping as it is sometimes known, is a traditional Chinese
medicine which has been used for thousands of years. In more recent years, it is
becoming more commonly used in the Western world.
Cupping therapy is an alternative form of therapy, and is often used in combination
with other therapies or alongside recognised medical treatment.
How does cupping therapy work?
Cupping therapy is a therapy which is grouped in with acupuncture. This is because
it is applied directly to the skin and because it uses the same points on the body as
acupuncture does, though is generally only applied to the back.
A cup, usually made of glass, is heated with a naked flame and then pressed down
onto the skin where it creates a vacuum. The cup is then left there, allowing the
suction created by the vacuum to raise that particular area of skin by a few
millimetres, which is said to help the bodys inner energy, or Qi, to re-focus.
It is believed that pain is caused by the stagnation of our bodys energy flows, which
occurs when we have been injured or are ill. Using cupping therapy, the energy
flows, including body fluids (i.e. blood and lymph) which can be made to move freely
again, therefore assisting in the repair of the injury or illness.
What can cupping therapy be used for?
Cupping therapy is said to be particularly useful for relieving pain in stiff or damaged
muscles around the back and shoulders. It is also used for respiratory problems such
as bronchitis and for helping to soothe the effects of a common cough and cold.
Other conditions which cupping therapy has also been known to be used for include
anxiety, stress and tiredness, cellulite reduction and digestive disorders.
Is cupping therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is no scientific or medical evidence to suggest that cupping therapy is an
effective form of therapy. However, it has been used for thousands of years and this
would tend to suggest that a therapy which has lasted this long must be effective to a
certain extent, otherwise use of it would have died out many years ago.
Are there any known side effects with cupping therapy?
Cupping therapy is generally considered to be a safe form of therapy. However,
those who have been treated will be left with circular marks on their skin which are
similar to bruises. These marks usually disappear within about a week though and
will not stay permanently.
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The only real risk with cupping therapy is the possibility of being burnt or perhaps
blistering if you have sensitive skin, though if you are using a registered and qualified
practitioner, this should not be an issue.
Where can you find further information on cupping therapy?
British Acupuncture Council
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D
Dance Therapy
What is dance therapy?
Dance therapy (or dance movement therapy as it is sometimes called) is a
psychotherapeutic form of expressive therapy in order to help people with emotional,
cognitive, behavioural and physical conditions.
Dance therapy is considered to have been started by Marian Chace, an American
dancer. She believed that the body and mind were unified and that one had a direct
effect on the other. She therefore realised the great potential which dance had in
helping people with a variety of problems and began teaching and lecturing on the
therapeutic benefits of dancing.
Chace went on to found the American Dance Therapy Association in 1966, before
passing away in 1970. In the UK, dance therapy is now sometimes being referred to
as dance movement psychotherapy.
How does dance therapy work?
Dance therapy is not intended to be an artistic form of dance, rather an expression
of the clients emotions. Therapists are professionally trained in dance therapy to
acknowledge and support the clients movements. By encouraging and changing the
clients movements, the therapist is able to diagnose and therefore help to solve their
psychological problems.
What can dance therapy be used for?
Dance therapy can be used for a large variety of conditions by the majority of the
population basically anyone who can move can partake in dance therapy.
This includes people who are suffering from emotional problems or distress, people
who find it difficult to communicate their feelings and people who may have a
physical condition which limits their speech, as well as those who have suffered a
trauma which has affected them either physically or mentally; people who are
generally healthy but feel that there is perhaps something not right in their lives, or
people who essentially want to improve themselves with personal growth, greater
communication skills and self-exploration.
Dance therapy is said to bring a number of benefits to those using it, including
expressing and managing emotions, improving social interaction skills, developing
behaviours for coping, increasing personal independence and maximising avenues
of communication.
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Is dance therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been several studies into the effectiveness of dance therapy which have
shown some positive results, though further studies are really required to be able to
form a sound opinion regarding dance therapy and its benefits.
Are there any known side effects with dance therapy?
There are no known side effects with dance therapy.
Where can you find further information on dance therapy?
The Association for Dance Movement Therapy UK
American Dance Therapy Association
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Deep Tissue Bodywork Therapy

What is deep tissue bodywork therapy?
Deep tissue bodywork, or deep tissue massage therapy as it is also known, is a form
of massage categorised as an alternative medicine which involves more focused
massage, working on one particular part of the body.
There are several versions of deep tissue bodywork therapy practised today, but the
founder is said to be Therese C. Pfrimmer who, in 1946, developed a partial body
paralysis which she was able to massage out using her own unique technique.
Pfrimmer did not previously have any experience with massage therapy, though this
encouraged her to do so and she became very recognised in the field. Her technique
became known as Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy.
How does deep tissue bodywork therapy work?
Deep tissue bodywork therapy is a more focused form of massage than general
massage therapies because it concentrates on the muscles which are situated
deeper within our bodies and their connecting tissues.
When a person is injured or is suffering chronic muscle tension, the muscles,
tendons and ligaments become very inflexible and painful and can result in
inflammation of the area concerned, as well as blocking circulation and possibly
limiting general movement.
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Deep tissue bodywork therapy aims to unblock and release these clumps of
muscles, tendons and ligaments in order to relieve the pressure and associated
problems. This is performed using some strokes which are used in conventional
massage, but mainly the touch is far slower and with deeper pressure. If pressure is
applied too quickly, the muscle will retract in defence and can cause further damage.
What can deep tissue bodywork therapy be used for?
Deep tissue bodywork therapy is not used as a general relaxant, as conventional
massage is, but is focused on specific injuries or problems. The conditions
commonly treated by deep tissue bodywork therapy include repetitive strain injury,
sports injuries and other injuries, osteoarthritis pains, chronic pain and postural
problems to name a few. It is also suggested that it can be used to treat other, more
serious underlying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinsons
and muscular dystrophy.
Is deep tissue bodywork therapy an effective form of therapy?
It has been suggested that deep tissue bodywork therapy can be very effective in
reducing the pain associated with muscular injuries and that when used in
conjunction with more conventional medicine can aid a speedier recovery.
Are there any known side effects with deep tissue bodywork therapy?
In the normal course of deep tissue bodywork therapy, there should not be any side
effects or risks if performed by a qualified therapist, though this form of therapy is not
recommended for people who are prone to blood clots. Pregnant women and those
with osteoporosis should seek medical advice before trying deep tissue bodywork
therapy.
Where can you find further information on deep tissue bodywork therapy?
American Association for Bodywork Therapies of Asia
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Destruction Therapy
What is destruction therapy?
Destruction therapy is a new and alternative form of therapy which does not have
any rooting in medicine or a psychological background. In short, it involves
destroying things!
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Destruction therapy, or destructotherapy as its also known, was developed by three

Spaniards in 2003 (who now call themselves the Stop Stress Group) to offer what
they believed was a safe environment for people to release stress, anger and
aggression.
Sessions were originally offered in a town called Lubia (100 miles from Madrid),
where clients pay a fee for the privilege of smashing something up. The idea is now
beginning to catch on in Spain and events are being organised for the general public
to come along and smash a variety of items.
How does destruction therapy work?
Destruction therapy works on the premise that everyone, at some point in their lives,
needs to release some stress and anger.
The inventors of destruction therapy primarily aimed the therapy at office workers to
begin with, because they recognised that office workers can suffer a large amount of
stress and tension. For a fee, you can destroy an inanimate object items often
used include cars, computers, televisions, washing machines, fridges etc. You are
given a safety helmet, goggles, overalls and the all important sledgehammer.
What can destruction therapy be used for?
As already mentioned, the main point of destruction therapy is to release pent-up
anger, stress and tension in a controlled and safe environment.
Is destruction therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although destruction therapy has no theoretical or medical background it is steadily
becoming appreciated for its benefits. It has long been recognised that a great deal
of stress in peoples lives is caused in the workplace, and the idea of destruction
therapy is to give workers somewhere where they can safely release this stress and
tension. As the inventors point out, it is far better to release anger and stress in this
way than to take it out on another person.
Are there any known side effects with destruction therapy?
Provided that destruction therapy is undertaken in a safe and controlled environment
and that safety equipment is used, there should be minimal chance of danger.
Probably the main danger would simply be straining or pulling a muscle as this is
quite a physical form of therapy.
Where can you find further information on destruction therapy?
Stop Stress Group
Kuoni Destructotherapy Days (pdf)
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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

What is dialectical behavioural therapy?
Dialectical behavioural therapy was developed specifically to treat people with the
psychosocial condition borderline personality disorder, although it is also used to
treat other conditions as well.
Dialectical behavioural therapy was developed by Marsha M. Linehan, an American
psychologist, who blended cognitive behavioural therapy with Zen Buddhism
practises of the East.
How does dialectical behavioural therapy work?
Borderline personality disorder is renowned as being a very difficult condition to
treat, and hence dialectical behavioural therapy was developed specifically to try to
address this difficult condition.
The idea that the therapy is dialectical means that truths are not merely stated as
given, but are worked towards. For example, an argument is put forward in one
session where the client and therapist will discuss both sides of the argument and
reach a conclusion together. This truth is then carried forward to the next session
and in effect means that truths are seen as a development over time and a method
for finding a middle ground for the client and therapist to work with.
The Zen element of dialectical behavioural therapy comes into play because one of
the key parts of Zen Buddhism is being mindful, and this is something which people
with borderline personality disorder have difficulty with. What this means is that these
people find it difficult to live in the present and are usually very detached from their
experiences. Being mindful gives them greater control over themselves and
therefore helps greatly with their condition.
Dialectical behavioural therapy involves four components: Individual sessions, skills
training group, out of hours telephone contact and a consultation group. There are
four modules or stages of treatment: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness,
distress tolerance and emotion regulation.
What can dialectical behavioural therapy be used for?
The most common use of dialectical behavioural therapy is for people suffering with
borderline personality disorder, although the therapy has also been tried for treating
various other conditions too; for example, to treat eating disorders.
Is dialectical behavioural therapy an effective form of therapy?
Having been developed specifically for borderline personality disorder, this is where
dialectical behavioural therapy has been most useful, and a number of studies have
shown this to be an effective form of therapy for treating this disorder.
So far the efficacy of dialectical behavioural therapy has not been proven in treating
other conditions.
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Are there any known side effects with dialectical behavioural therapy?
There are no known side effects with dialectical behavioural therapy.
Where can you find further information on dialectical behavioural therapy?
National Institute of Mental Health
Advances in Psychiatric Treatment Dialectical behaviour therapy for borderline
personality disorder article
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Diathermy Therapy
What is diathermy therapy?
Diathermy therapy is an alternative form of medicine which uses electrically induced
heat, by way of high-frequency currents, to treat muscular pains and injuries.
Diathermy therapy can also refer to a surgical technique used for sealing or cutting
blood vessels, which is used in conventional medicine.
The benefits of using heat for therapeutic reasons have been recognised for
thousands of years. The Romans, for example, built hot spring-water bathhouses
where the whole body could be submerged and benefit.
The first study of electrically produced high-frequency currents was developed by a
French physiologist, Arsene dArsonval, in the 1890s, and his ideas were later
expanded by a German physician who built a prototype machine. It was not until
1925 when a doctor in the United States began studying the physiological effects on
animals that diathermy therapy really began.
How does diathermy therapy work?
By heating deep muscular tissues, cellular metabolism and blood flow increases
which in turn helps to repair the tissue. In addition, heat helps the tissues and
muscles to relax and stretch which eases the stiffness commonly associated with
muscle injuries. There are three methods of diathermy therapy in use: Shortwave
diathermy, ultrasound diathermy and microwave diathermy.
Shortwave diathermy is when the part of the body which is being treated is placed
between two capacitor plates which are connected to a diathermy machine.
Ultrasound diathermy machines generate high-frequency acoustic vibrations. As the
tissues vibrate they produce their own heat source. Microwave diathermy uses radar
waves, and it is the least effective for treating deep muscles as it is unable to
penetrate that far into the body.
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What can diathermy therapy be used for?
Diathermy therapy is used for treating painful and stiff joints and muscles, as well as
arthritis, bursitis, sinusitis and pelvic infections.
Is diathermy therapy an effective form of therapy?
Diathermy therapy has been used for several decades as a routine part of the
therapies performed by physiotherapists, so this would tend to suggest that this is an
effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with diathermy therapy?
The biggest potential side effect is the risk of superficial burns, though when treated
by a trained therapist this risk should be minimal.
Other potential side effects include an increased menstrual flow for female patients,
and patients who have a pacemaker who may find that this is affected. There are
also a number of precautions concerning particular people who should not be treated
with diathermy therapy. These include patients with metal implants; patients who
have a sensory impairment, as they may have difficulty being able to tell whether
they are burning; patients with haemophilia because of the risk of haemorrhage; and
pregnant women because shortwave diathermy can affect the foetus.
Where can you find further information on diathermy therapy?
Research has been unable to find any good sources of further information on
diathermy therapy, though if you are interested you may be able to find out more
from a local physiotherapist.
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Distance Healing Therapy

What is distance healing therapy?
Distance healing therapy is a general term used to cover a wide variety of different
therapies which can reputably be used from a distance to heal or help a client with
problems.
Distance healing therapy can therefore use many different techniques. But the
underlying factor is that it is done from a distance, i.e. the client does not have to be
present in order to be healed. It is very much an alternative form of healing and is
complementary to conventional methods of healing.
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How does distance healing therapy work?

How distance healing therapy works very much depends on the type of healing being
used. There are many methods used for actually channelling the healing power
through to the client. One such way is by radionics, whereby a machine can actually
be used to analyse what is wrong with the client and offer treatment. Radionic
diagnosis has its own entry where you can find further information about this form of
therapy. Other healers will use methods like Reiki or crystal healing.
What can distance healing therapy be used for?
Distance healing therapy can be used for a variety of conditions, though it generally
promotes health and well-being, in addition to helping the bodys immune system to
cope with problems and become re-balanced. It is also said to help with relaxation,
easing stress and anxiety, depression and back pains.
Is distance healing therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is no scientific or medical evidence to suggest that distance healing therapy is
an effective form of therapy for any of the conditions mentioned above and that any
positive effect experienced is merely a placebo effect. Distance healing therapy is
generally considered to be a pseudoscience.
Are there any known side effects with distance healing therapy?
There are no known side effects with distance healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on distance healing therapy?
Research could not find any general information websites on distance healing
therapy, though there are many websites for individuals who practice distance
healing. Here are just a couple of them:
Philip Chave distant spiritual healer
Distance Healing UK
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Diversional Therapy
What is diversional therapy?
Diversional therapy is a healing method which promotes physical and recreational
activities for people of all ages and backgrounds, and is based on the principle that
all people have a right to both leisure and recreation.
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It is called diversional therapy because the aim of the therapist is to divert the clients
attention from problems they are experiencing. This is done by introducing a
programme of leisure and recreation into their lifestyles and daily routine.
How does diversional therapy work?
The theory behind diversional therapy is very simple to get people involved in
activities to keep them occupied with the intention of helping them in a variety of
ways, as discussed below.
Diversional therapy can be used in many different settings and would usually be
under the supervision of a trained and qualified diversional therapist. The therapist
will work with clients either individually or within a group, developing a range of
activities for the client to participate in.
The activities used within a programme can be very wide ranging, and will obviously
depend on who they are being tailored to. This means that the therapist needs to
consider whether the client has a disability or condition which would restrict their
participation in a certain activity because restriction goes against the whole idea of
diversional therapy.
Activities may include arts and crafts, games, gardening, outings, spiritual activities,
cultural activities, educational sessions, exercise and music, to name just a few.
What can diversional therapy be used for?
Diversional therapy is designed to keep the clients mind off of problems they may be
experiencing, to increase self-esteem and to encourage involvement with an aim of
making friends, becoming part of the group and hence improving social skills. In the
greater scheme, this can benefit people mentally and emotionally, and physical
activity can help them health-wise as well.
Diversional therapy is used in a variety of settings, such as within care homes and
day centres for the elderly or for people with mental illnesses, and for people with
physical or mental disabilities.
Is diversional therapy an effective form of therapy?
Studies have shown that diversional therapy can be an effective form of therapy,
though more comprehensive studies need to be conducted to fully appreciate the
benefits of this form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with diversional therapy?
There are no known side effects with diversional therapy. The only risks are if clients
are persuaded to participate in activities beyond their capabilities which could result
in injury both physically and mentally, but there should be no chance of this
happening in a monitored environment with a qualified therapist.
Where can you find further information on diversional therapy?
Although diversional therapy is practiced within the UK, research found no
organisations specifically related to this therapy there. However, diversional therapy
appears to be a popular form of therapy in Australia.
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The Diversional Therapy Association of New South Wales
Diversional Therapy Association of Australia
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Dream Therapy
What is dream therapy?
For thousands of years, people have been trying to give meaning and interpretation
to dreams. This is because dreams have long been considered to contain hidden
messages.
In ancient Greece and Egypt, dreams were seen to be messages from the gods and
only people with special powers were able to interpret them, though more recently
the interpretation of dreams has been linked with psychoanalysis. Psychologists like
Freud and Jung believed that dreams had important meanings and were a pathway
into our conscious and subconscious mind.
Dream therapy is sometimes the name given to this interpretation of dreams
because it is believed that by unravelling the meaning of our dreams, we are able to
answer questions and solve problems. Dream therapy is also a term used to refer to
a practice whereby we try to alter our dreams, especially recurring ones, which are
disturbing and painful and which are causing us other problems.
How does dream therapy work?
Dream therapy and the interpretation of dreams is a very individual process and
often there is no right or wrong answer when trying to interpret what dreams mean. If
you go to a dream therapist or a dream counsellor, that person is not usually
specifically trained in this area. But they may be a trained psychotherapist who has
the experience to work with clients and to help them to interpret their dreams and
therefore understand their problems. Once problems are understood, a solution is
usually much easier to come by.
Dream therapy will often help people answer questions which they havent yet asked
and are hence in the sub-conscious mind. However, another type of dream therapy
actually addresses dreams which are a direct result of a trauma and are therefore
very much in the conscious mind. By working to change the content of a recurring
dream, the client will benefit in more ways than one.
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What can dream therapy be used for?

Dream therapy that deals with dreams which are understood to be in the conscious
mind can greatly benefit people that have suffered some sort of trauma in their lives.
It has been found to be particularly effective with female rape victims. Because
dreams are recurring they are more easily remembered, so dream therapy actually
attempts to change the dream. By thinking of pleasant images and memories, then
thinking of the dream or nightmare they often suffer and a different, more positive
ending to this, they can eventually change the outcome in the dream they experience
whilst asleep.
By improving a clients dreams, the client will benefit by sleeping better and will
generally feel more positive and healthy all round. Dream therapy which is focused
more on the subconscious mind can be used as a way of interpreting problems we
are experiencing and hence finding a way of dealing with them.
Is dream therapy an effective form of therapy?
Studies into the effectiveness of dream therapy as a form of altering our dreams,
proved to be quite successful with female rape victims.
Using a psychotherapist to aid in interpreting our dreams may have some
effectiveness. However, the use of general dream interpretation methods, such as
dream dictionary books and websites on the subject, should be taken with a pinch
of salt.
Are there any known side effects with dream therapy?
There are no known side effects with dream therapy.
Where can you find further information on dream therapy?
Dream Psychology full text of Sigmund Freuds work on dream analysis
Paranormal Dream Therapy
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Drug Therapy
What is drug therapy?
Drug therapy is a very broadly defining term used to describe a patient treatment
programme which involves the use of drugs.
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Drug therapy may also be referred to as drug treatment, pharmacotherapy or simply
as medicine or medication and is the use of drugs or pharmaceuticals. The term drug
therapy helps to distinguish between a method of treatment which involves surgery,
and one which involves just the use of drugs.
Drug therapy has evolved over thousands of years from the practice of herbalism
and herbal medicine (which you can read about in its own entry) which has been
passed down through the generations in just about every culture on Earth. In fact,
many drugs which are used in the present day are still derived from plants and
herbs.
The more modern-day approach to drugs began in the 1880s and is credited to
German physician Robert Koch, who discovered that disease was transmitted by
bacteria. In the following decades, further discoveries were made such as Alexander
Flemings discovery of penicillin.
How does drug therapy work?
Since the early 1900s, there have been hundreds of drugs which have been either
discovered or artificially manufactured in the fight against disease. Often these drugs
have been developed specifically for certain diseases, and hence there are many
different ways in which they will work against the disease.
What can drug therapy be used for?
There are five broad classifications for types of drugs used in drug therapy and what
they are generally used for, and these are:
antipyretics used for reducing fever

analgesics used as painkillers
anti-malarial drugs for treating malaria
antibiotics for preventing or slowing germ growth
antiseptics for the prevention of germ growth at or near the site of wounds,
cuts or burns
Is drug therapy an effective form of therapy?

Drug therapy is constantly evolving and previously assumed boundaries are being
crossed as more and more drugs are developed to fight disease. Although drugs
which were discovered many years ago are still used and are still effective,
pharmaceutical companies are always trying to improve on these and to find cures
for diseases which, as yet, have no cure. Hence the effectiveness of drug therapy is
always changing, and we suggest you search for details on a specific drug if you are
interested in finding out more.
Are there any known side effects with drug therapy?
As already mentioned, there are literally hundreds of different drugs available for
drug therapy, and because these work in different ways and are used for treating
different conditions, they will all have different effects on the body.
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Side effects can be common with some drugs, and rare with others, but they will all
affect people differently. Therefore, as above, please search for information on a
specific drug if you would like to know more.
Where can you find further information on drug therapy?
Drug therapy is a huge field with much background and further reading available; the
links below will give you a starting point:
Wikipedia entry on medication
Patient.co.uk information on specific drugs
NHS Direct
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Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy

What is dyadic developmental psychotherapy?
Dyadic developmental psychotherapy is a type of therapy developed specifically to
meet the needs of children and adolescents who have been adopted and/or fostered
and who are thought to have resulting emotional disorders.
Dyadic developmental psychotherapy was developed by Daniel Hughes, using a
basis in attachment theory, who believed that childrens emotional distress was a
result of earlier separation from caregivers or from when the child was an infant and
was mistreated. He also believes that children who have suffered neglect were far
more likely to develop problems as adolescents and adults in forming attachments.
How does dyadic developmental psychotherapy work?
Dyadic developmental psychotherapy is an experiential type of therapy which is
intended as family-focused to help children form relationships with their caregivers. It
is therefore important that the family, or main caregiver, is present at the session.
Using experiences, the therapist helps the child to feel safety, security, empathy and
acceptance through playful activities and other exercises. Once the child is
comfortable, feels that they are in a safe environment and realises that they are
loved and cared for, the trauma which initially caused the problem can be addressed.
By addressing the trauma in what is considered to be a safe environment, the child is
supposed to feel that it is ok to share the anger and shame they have experienced
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with somebody who is empathetic. Once the trauma is shared, the child is able to
integrate and process this in a coherent way.
What can dyadic developmental psychotherapy be used for?
Dyadic developmental disorder is stated as being most effective for children with
reactive attachment disorder and complex traumas which are stopping them from
forming attachments. It is used as a therapy for both children and adolescents,
though there is criticism as to its methods when used with adolescents.
Is dyadic developmental psychotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Opinion would appear to be mixed as to whether dyadic developmental disorder is
an effective form of therapy.
Some studies have concluded that it is the only effective form of therapy for this kind
of condition in children and that it remains effective in on-going studies, though these
studies have been criticised as not being completely evidence based and for
including leaps.
Are there any known side effects with dyadic developmental psychotherapy?
There are no known side effects with dyadic developmental disorder.
Where can you find further information on dyadic developmental
psychotherapy?
Wikipedia entry on dyadic developmental psychotherapy
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E
Ear Candling (Hopi) Therapy
What is ear candling therapy?
Ear candling therapy may also be referred to as ear coning, Hopi ear candling or
thermal auricular therapy.
It is an alternative medicine which is used to aid the clearing or loosening of ear wax
and to remove toxins from the body.
The exact origin of this therapy is unknown. This is because while some
manufacturers of ear candles claim that they are Hopi ear candles, the Hopi tribe of
North America say that they have never used this practice and have repeatedly
asked the manufacturer to remove any reference to their name.
How does ear candling therapy work?
One end of a hollow candle is inserted into the clients ear whilst the client is lying on
their side. The candle is then lit which creates a mild suction through the formation of
a vacuum, drawing out wax.
However, other sources suggest that there is no suction and the wax is not drawn
out, rather the air flow created by the burning candle circulates within the ear which
does break down material but does not remove it into the candle.
When the candle burns to about two inches above the ear, it is extinguished and the
procedure is repeated with the other ear.
Often an item will be placed in between the candle and the ear so as to stop any hot
wax dripping into or around the ear and causing burns. This might be a paper plate
or a dampened cloth wrapped around the base of the candle.
What can ear candling therapy be used for?
It is reputed that ear candling therapy can be used for a number of conditions in
addition to simply clearing the ear of wax. Conditions include sinusitis and rhinitis,
headaches and migraines, hay fever and sore throats, asthma, catarrh, vertigo and
Menieres disease. And clients have reported improved hearing as well.
Is ear candling therapy an effective form of therapy?
Ear candling therapy is generally considered by the medical world to be an
ineffective and dangerous form of therapy.
There have been a number of studies into the effectiveness of ear candling therapy
which have concluded that it is ineffective in removing ear wax, let alone in treating
the other conditions stated above.
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Some studies have found that the materials allegedly collected inside the candle
were actually residues from the candle itself and nothing from inside the ear.
Are there any known side effects with ear candling therapy?
There are a number of risks with ear candling therapy which should be considered
before having treatment.
Ear candling therapy should be practised with great care and it is advised that its not
attempted on your own, but should be done by someone who has had experience.
The ear canal should be examined before and after the session and some sort of
filter should be used to protect the skin from dripping wax otherwise there is serious
risk of burns. In addition, placing a candle in the ear could have other effects such as
obstruction of the ear canal and perforation of the ear drum.
Where can you find further information on ear candling therapy?
There are many websites which sell ear candles, and therefore are biased in their
opinion as to how effective ear candles are. But here are two websites which explain
the processes in more detail.
Hopi Ear Candles
Hope-e-Candles Ltd
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Electroconvulsive Therapy
What is electroconvulsive therapy?
Electroconvulsive therapy is also known as electroshock treatment. It is a treatment
which involves the production of electrically produced seizures in the patient as a
form of therapy and psychiatric treatment.
It was recognised as far back as the 16th century that producing seizures in a patient
could be a successful form of treatment for psychiatric disorders, and the first
documented case was in 1785.
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Convulsive therapy was officially adopted as a practice in 1934, using drugs to
induce a seizure, and by 1937, the use of electric shocks began.
During the 1940s and 1950s, in particular, the practice of electroconvulsive therapy
was very widespread. Then, from the 1950s to 1970s, its use declined as antidepressant medication became more mainstream.
Electroconvulsive therapy is still used around the world today though the number of
patients treated is still declining. In the UK, there are about 12,000 people receiving
this treatment per year and a total of about one million people worldwide.
How does electroconvulsive therapy work?
Patients are first given a short-acting anaesthetic and a muscle-relaxant and
sometimes a drug which inhibits production of saliva.
Electrodes are then placed on the head, the position of which is determined by the
type of treatment being given. Almost all patients in the UK, and most in the US,
receive bilateral electroconvulsive therapy, where the electrodes are placed on either
side of the head.
Alternatively, it may be unilateral electroconvulsive therapy where both electrodes
are placed on the same side. An electrical stimulus is passed through at a level
which ensures that an effective seizure will take place, though this must not be too
high a level because of resulting risks.
What can electroconvulsive therapy be used for?
In the UK, the main condition treated with electroconvulsive therapy is mood
disorder, as well as schizophrenia.
Is electroconvulsive therapy an effective form of therapy?
Studies have found that electroconvulsive therapy can be an effective form of
therapy for treating depression where other methods of treatment have failed.
And it is accepted as a recognised form of therapy when a condition would otherwise
be considered life-threatening, such as severe depression.
Are there any known side effects with electroconvulsive therapy?
Reports have suggested that there are no physical risks other than those which are
associated with a brief general anaesthetic, though there are usually side effects.
These include confusion and memory loss, though the confusion is only short term,
usually disappearing within about an hour of treatment.
There is some controversy over long-term memory loss, although with current
standards for treatment this should not be such an issue today.
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Where can you find further information on electroconvulsive therapy?
Wikipedia entry on electroconvulsive therapy
Patient Plus
BBC News Article (20/12/2000)
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Electrotherapy
What is electrotherapy?
Electrotherapy is the use of electrical energy for the treatment of a number of
different conditions which can include recognised medical treatments, as well as
some alternative medical devices and treatments.
There are several other forms of treatment which use electrical currents. These are
different to electrotherapy though and should not be confused with it. These include
electroconvulsive therapy, which is used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders
such as schizophrenia, and shock therapy which is a controversial form of aversion
therapy used to discourage addictions and bad behaviour. Both of these therapies
have their own entries where you can read more about how they work.
French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne is credited as being the father of
electrotherapy, having started to experiment with the use of electricity from the
1830s onwards. For the next 40 or so years, he continued to develop and fine-tune
electrotherapy, and in so doing concluded in 1855 that an alternating current was far
better for producing muscle contractions than a direct current.
Electrotherapy has been in use since Duchennes discoveries, and is now used for
several different forms of treatment, as below.
How does electrotherapy work?
There are several uses of electrotherapy, which work in differing ways. The most
common applications are: TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation); EMS
(electro-muscular stimulation, also known as NMES (neuro-muscular electrostimulation); microcurrents (also known as MENS); galvanic currents and
interferential and Russian currents.
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These different forms of electrotherapy are used in differing ways according to what
they are treating; see below for further information. TENS is detailed in its own entry
where you can read all about how this form of electrotherapy works.
What can electrotherapy be used for?
There are a variety of uses for electrotherapy it can be used for rehabilitation
purposes, such as following an accident or a stroke in which the patient has lost use
of muscles. EMS (or NMES) would be used in this instance as it stimulates the
muscles.
Other treatments include for pain therapy and control (TENS, in particular, is used for
this), as well as relaxation of muscle spasms, increase in local blood circulation,
maintaining and increasing range of motion and for post-surgical muscle stimulation
in order to prevent venous thrombosis.
Is electrotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Opinion is mixed as to the effectiveness of electrotherapy because whilst there have
been published research articles which report successful treatments, the theories
behind the treatment are still not fully understood.
TENS, for example (as you can read in its own entry) does not have research
backing to prove that it actually works as a form of pain relief, yet it is frequently used
and prescribed.
Are there any known side effects with electrotherapy?
There should be no side effects with the use of electrotherapy when used within the
prescribed boundaries.
Where can you find further information on electrotherapy?
Electrotherapy on the web an educational resource
Database of electrotherapy
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99
EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. It is a type of
psychotherapy developed specifically to help to resolve symptoms experienced as a
result of a traumatic event.
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro, an American psychologist, in 1987, as a
therapy to resolve symptoms and their psychological consequences. It was mainly
used for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, studies
showed its effectiveness in treating a larger range of psychological traumas too.
Since its development, two forms of EMDR therapy have evolved the original
method which uses the theory that eye movements help to enhance the processing
of traumatic memories; and the other which believes that the eye movement part of
the therapy is not necessary.
How does EMDR therapy work?
EMDR is based on the principle that often when people suffer a traumatic event, the
memory of this event is unprocessed, and essentially becomes stuck in the mind.
This means that certain sounds, smells etc can trigger the memory and the person
will re-live the event.
Although many of the psychological elements of this therapy are based on other
treatments, the unique part of EMDR is the fact that this utilises eye movements and
also sometimes other bilateral auditory and tactile stimulation which it is believed can
help to speed up the recovery process.
The client will be asked to remember a picture from their traumatic memory and as
they do so, they are also focusing on another stimuli either the therapist will direct
their eye movements or there will be auditory tones or hand tapping.
By creating these new connections to a memory, it is thought that they are re-forged
and processed in a different way. This results in the memory losing its intensity and
becoming less distressing and therefore easier to manage.
What can EMDR therapy be used for?
As originally intended, EMDR is used for dealing with traumatic events and
disturbing memories and particularly PTSD, although it has also been tried with a
number of other conditions too including treatment of complex post traumatic stress
disorder and attachment disorder.
And although it is thought this would be effective with other conditions too, further
studies are required to be sure of this.
Is EMDR therapy an effective form of therapy?
A number of studies have shown that EMDR is an effective form of therapy for the
treatment of PTSD and that the eye movement element of the treatment does help to
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facilitate recovery. Further studies are required to check its efficacy with other
conditions.
Are there any known side effects with EMDR therapy?
There are no known side effects with EMDR Therapy.
Where can you find further information on EMDR therapy?
EMDR Training and Consultancy
EMDR Association United Kingdom and Ireland
The EMDR Institute
EMDR International Association
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Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)

What is EFT?
EFT is an alternative psychotherapeutic medicine based on the idea that
disturbances in the bodys energy field are the cause of negative emotions.
EFT was developed by American, Gary Craig, in the mid 1990s, who adapted the
work of an associate which was based on tapping certain points of your body to
alleviate emotional and physical problems.
The tapping points used are the same as those used in traditional Chinese medicine
for procedures like acupuncture, but in EFT the meridians are not punctured like in
acupuncture, just tapped on.
This means that EFT can be performed by anyone in a huge variety of settings.
How does EFT work?
EFT therapy works on the assumption that our bodies have an energy field, and that
when this field becomes disrupted, it causes all sorts of physical and emotional
problems.
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By tapping the pre-determined points of our body it is believed that we can force the
energy field back into alignment and harmony and therefore ridding our body of its
problems.
What can EFT be used for?
It is said that EFT therapy can be used for a whole multitude of conditions, including
depression, pain management, phobias, allergies, weight loss, headaches, trauma,
eating disorders and addictions, to name a few.
Is EFT an effective form of therapy?
There have been just three studies into the effectiveness of EFT therapy. Two of
these showed that there appears to be positive outcomes as a result of using EFT
therapy, whilst the third concluded that any positive results were impossible to
differentiate from the placebo effect.
However, many websites report on how successful EFT is and include testimonials
from clients who have been successfully cured of various problems.
This in itself would tend to suggest that there must be some truth to the effectiveness
of EFT.
Are there any known side effects with EFT?
There are no known side effects with EFT.
Where can you find further information on EFT?
World Center for EFT
Emotional Freedom Techniques UK
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Energy Medicine
What is energy medicine?
Energy medicine is a term used to include a large number of alternative and
complementary therapies which are all practised under one general concept. That
concept is that our bodys energy field and imbalances within that field are what
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lead to illness and poor health, and that by re-balancing the field, our health can be
restored.
It is believed that energy medicine therapy has been practiced in some form since as
far back as 5,000 years and it has been used for thousands of years in traditional
Chinese medicine. The exact term energy medicine has been in use since the
1980s when the International Society for the Study of Subtle Energies and Energy
Medicine was founded.
How does energy medicine work?
As energy medicine covers a large range of different therapies it is difficult to specify
exactly how it works, though many of the therapies classified as energy medicine
direct their attention to the meridians or acupuncture points as determined in
traditional Chinese medicine.
Some of the therapies classed as energy medicine include: colour therapy
(chromotherapy), Therapeutic Touch, acupuncture, aura-soma, Reiki, magnet
therapy, light therapy, Quantum Touch and sonopuncture all of these therapies
have their own listings with further information regarding exactly how these work.
What can energy medicine be used for?
Exact conditions which can be treated with energy medicine will vary with the
specific therapies, though it is generally believed that energy medicine therapy will
assist in improving a persons overall health and well-being.
Is energy medicine an effective form of therapy?
Again, effectiveness will vary with the specific form of therapy. Whilst some energy
medicine therapies have been shown to be effective, many are considered to have
little or no medical or scientific proof as to their effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with energy medicine?
As above, any possibility of side effects experienced with energy medicine will
greatly vary depending on the type of therapy used, and each one should be
individually analysed before deciding to go ahead with any treatment.
Where can you find further information on energy medicine?
Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Energy Medicine (ACPEM)
Magick Formula.com
Wikipedia entry on energy medicine
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Enzyme Therapy
What is enzyme therapy?
Enzyme therapy is the consumption of enzymes usually in food supplements, as a
way of aiding digestion and hence helping our bodys overall health.
Enzyme therapy was developed in the 1920s by Dr Edward Howell when he noticed
the benefits a co-worker was experiencing from eating raw foods, rather than cooked
foods. He concluded that because the natural enzymes which occur in the foods we
eat are often diminished by cooking, the body has to work that much harder in the
digestion stage in order to produce the digestive enzymes needed to break down our
food and to extract the benefits from the food.
Recognising that people do generally prefer to cook their food rather than eat it raw,
he set about creating enzyme supplements and founded the National Enzyme
Company in 1932.
How does enzyme therapy work?
Enzymes are naturally occurring in the foods that we eat, though when the foods are
cooked the enzymes are destroyed. This means that our bodies have to work extra
hard to produce our own enzymes and this can often lead to problems like bloating,
wind and indigestion because of the difficulties our bodies have in the digestion
process.
By taking enzyme food supplements, we are re-introducing the enzymes which
would usually occur naturally in our foods and are aiding the body in the digestion
process. According to Dr Howells research, these supplements can digest 75 per
cent of the food we eat before it has even reached the lower stomach.
What can enzyme therapy be used for?
Different enzymes are good at digesting different food types, though the overriding
benefit to the body is a more rapid digestion of our food, which in turn will decrease
digestive problems such as bloating, and will also allow our bodies more time to
concentrate on remaining healthy in general.
Is enzyme therapy an effective form of therapy?
Research has been unable to find mention of any studies which could prove or
disprove the effectiveness of enzyme therapy.
Are there any known side effects with enzyme therapy?
No reference to any side effects could be found, and it is generally understood that
there should not be any side effects considering you are only giving the body
something which it already produces naturally.
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Where can you find further information on enzyme therapy?

Enzymes Inc
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What is equine assisted therapy?
There are several different types of therapy which may be included under the
umbrella of equine assisted therapy.
Therapeutic horseback riding, also known as equine-assisted activity, which is
intended for people with special needs, is widely practised around the world and
does not involve the use of a trained therapist.
Equine assisted therapy (EAP) on the other hand, does involve the use of a therapist
and there are two types of this: hippotherapy and equine assisted psychotherapy.
Hippotherapy has its own entry and equine assisted psychotherapy is discussed
here. EAP is a psychotherapy which uses the combined skills of a horse professional
and qualified therapist who work with clients and horses to reach treatment targets. It
is usually a short term therapy because it is said to be intense and effective at
producing positive results.
How does equine assisted therapy work?
EAP is experiential, meaning that the therapy work is very hands-on and involved,
and clients are able to learn about themselves and others by taking part in the
activities with the horses.
These activities will encourage clients to develop a number of skills such as
teamwork, assertiveness, leadership, responsibility, relationships, confidence and
problem solving, for example. The end result is to make the client feel more positive
about themselves, other people and their surroundings and when they can do this,
problems such as depression can be cleared from the mind.
What can equine assisted therapy be used for?
EAP can be used with a variety of conditions and with a variety of age groups to treat
behavioural issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety,
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communication problems, attention deficit disorder and relationship problems,

working with youths, families, groups and individuals.
Is equine assisted therapy an effective form of therapy?
It is believed that EAP is an effective form of therapy in helping or curing the above
conditions, and as stated it is a brief therapy and therefore has fast, positive results.
Are there any known side effects with equine assisted therapy?
There are no known side effects with equine assisted psychotherapy.
Where can you find further information on equine assisted therapy?
Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association
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Existential Therapy
What is existential therapy?
Existential therapy is a type of psychotherapy which has some grounding in the
philosophical concept of existentialism.
Existentialism is the belief that all humans are able to make their own choices and
that our lives are not dictated by authorities, deities (gods) or religion. In making our
own choices we are creating the meaning and essence of our lives and hence giving
ourselves purpose.
There appears to be some debate as to what exactly existential therapy is because
of differences in opinion between psychotherapists who purport to practise it.
However, it is supposedly based on the ideas of the forefathers of existential
philosophy, Soren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche in the 1800s. Their ideas
were further explored by the likes of Jean-Paul Sartre, and later began to be
integrated into therapy by Emmy van Deurzen who founded the Society for
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Existential Analysis and the International Society for Existential Psychotherapists
and Counsellors.
How does existential therapy work?
Existential therapy works with people who are perhaps feeling lost in the world, and
have feelings of meaninglessness and aloneness. It does this by exploring the
meaning of problems through a philosophical rather than a more typical
psychoanalytic approach which would look at the clients past and make
associations. Existential therapy is based in the present and encourages the client to
focus on making their own decisions in the present day rather than relying on past
experiences.
Existential therapists will work to get the client to face their anxieties, not to try to
eliminate them, by encouraging the client to see that they are in charge of their own
life and that they can manage these anxieties and make their own choices. The
result is that the client is able to feel more free and in control of their life.
What can existential therapy be used for?
Existential therapy is generally used with people who are having trouble taking
control of their lives, and who may be feeling like their life has no meaning.
It is useful for people who need to increase their self-awareness and who are willing
to take more control of their lives and to make positive changes for better outcomes.
For example, existential therapy may be used as a form of therapy for people
undergoing relationship or family counselling as it can address control issues and
how these affect relationships.
Is existential therapy an effective form of therapy?
Existential therapy, although it has its roots in the 19th century, has only in the past
few decades really began to emerge as a plausible field of psychotherapy. Add to
this the fact that most psychotherapy is based on scientific principles, not
philosophical ones, and this means that study into the true effectiveness of
existential therapy as a form of treatment have not really taken place. Hence it is
difficult to surmise as to whether or not it is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with existential therapy?
There are no known side effects with existential therapy.
Where can you find further information on existential therapy?
Society for Existential Analysis
Existential Psychotherapy
Wikipedia entry on existential therapy
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Expressive Therapy
What is expressive therapy?
Expressive therapy may also be known as creative arts therapy. It involves the use
of different kinds of creative arts with the purpose of enabling the client to be
expressive and hence heal their problems.
Expressive therapy may be used as an umbrella term. Hence the therapist does not
specialise in one form of therapy over another, but rather uses a combination of
different creative arts in order to achieve the best result possible for the client.
There are several different kinds of expressive therapy, and these include art
therapy, dance therapy and music therapy. Each of these therapies has their own
entry where you can discover their backgrounds and how exactly they work.
How does expressive therapy work?
As mentioned, expressive therapy is really an umbrella term which may include any
or all of the different kinds of expressive therapies (i.e. art, music or dance). So how
exactly this works will depend on which type of therapy is being utilised. The overall
aim is that a client can heal by using their imagination to be creative, and in so doing,
they are able to examine their own feelings, emotions and more, and heal any
problems on a mental level.
Expressive therapy is particularly useful for people who would commonly have
problems expressing their feelings through verbal communication.
What can expressive therapy be used for?
Please see the individual listings for further information about what each of these
may specifically be used for: art therapy, dance therapy and music therapy.
Is expressive therapy an effective form of therapy?
As above, please see the individual listings.
Are there any known side effects with expressive therapy?
There are no known side effects with any type of expressive therapy.
Where can you find further information on expressive therapy?
You can find further information in the individual listings, or visit the website below.
International Expressive Arts Therapy Association
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F
Family Therapy
What is family therapy?
Family therapy is sometimes also called couple and family therapy or family
systems therapy and is a type of psychotherapy similar to relationship counselling,
working with both couples and/or families.
Family therapy was not developed by just one person, but there are many people in
the field who have contributed to make this therapy into what it is today. Mostly these
people have a psychoanalytic background, though the theory behind family therapy
comes from systems theory and cybernetics (the study of complex systems as
families are thought to be), and secondly from behavioural therapy and cognitive
psychotherapy.
More recently, family therapy has further developed to incorporate ideas which are
feminist and postmodernist, as well as various other psychological theory
backgrounds.
How does family therapy work?
Family therapists will usually have a session with more than one member of the
family attending. This gives the therapist the opportunity to see how these family
members integrate with each other as often their habits displayed at the session will
be the same or similar to their habits at home.
Family therapy presents an opportunity for the therapist to point out emerging
patterns seen within the family, and so is more concerned with what is going on
between people rather than in people, although some therapists in this field will
also look at the latter.
By pointing out behaviours, it is believed that the family system can change and
become more harmonious. However, some therapists are more interested in working
out the problems of the individuals rather than the whole family system, on the
assumption that if you help each family member as an individual, the whole family
system will benefit.
What can family therapy be used for?
In addition to the obvious use of helping family relationships, family therapy can also
be used for a number of other issues too, for example: child, adolescent and adult
mental health, couple relationships, emotional disorders, eating disorders, domestic
violence, self-harm, drug and alcohol misuse, child and adolescent behaviour and
refugee support.
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Is family therapy an effective form of therapy?

Research has shown that family therapy is an effective form of therapy which can be
used in many different situations, including helping those conditions mentioned
above.
Are there any known side effects with family therapy?
There are no known side effects with family therapy.
Where can you find further information on family therapy?
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
Institute of Family Therapy
AFT Association for Family Therapy
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The Feldenkrais Method

What is the Feldenkrais Method?
The Feldenkrais Method is generally seen as a complementary medicine whose
theory is based on the assumption that the mind and body are one entity and that
one directly affects the other.
The Feldenkrais Method is a movement based therapy which can be used for a
number of reasons, and was developed by Dr Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984).
Feldenkrais was a physicist and judo instructor, who believed that good health was
directly related to functioning well, in other words, maintaining overall well-being and
being able to apply Awareness Through Movement. This is a mind/body exploration
which not only concentrates on physical well-being, but mental well-being too.
Feldenkrais Method therapy is now used in two forms by practitioners, who receive
extensive training before becoming fully qualified. The first method is known as
Awareness through Movement and the second is Functional Integration.
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How does the Feldenkrais Method work?

In Awareness through Movement (ATM), the teacher directs the students verbally
through a number of movement sequences. The particular movement sequences
used varies very much, depending on the teacher, and many will have their own
unique style.
Because Feldenkrais believed that how we move is directly associated with how we
see ourselves, ATM is intended to do just as it says improve awareness of
ourselves through movement, by observing and paying attention to the way we
move.
In Functional Integration, the teacher will actually use their hands to guide how the
student moves, though the movements are extended from the students natural
patterns. In this way, the student is not feeling forced, but feels safe and has the
opportunity to study the movement in detail. The teacher can also teach the student
to move freely and easily, and can address specific problems of the participants.
What can the Feldenkrais Method be used for?
Feldenkrais Method therapy can be used as a general source of relaxation and wellbeing for people of all backgrounds and ages, as well as increasing vitality and
eliminating pain from movement. It is also regularly used by performers, such as
dancers, musicians and artists as well as athletes because Feldenkrais Method
therapy can improve performance.
Is the Feldenkrais Method an effective form of therapy?
Feldenkrais Method therapy is believed to be effective in its main objective, which is
discovery of the body and its movements. Practitioners are quick to point out that
even though this is considered to be a complementary medicine, it is not, however,
a treatment or cure for certain conditions.
Are there any known side effects with the Feldenkrais Method?
There are no known side effects with Feldenkrais Method therapy.
Where can you find further information on the Feldenkrais Method?
The Feldenkrais Guild UK
International Feldenkrais Federation
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G
Gerson Therapy
What is Gerson Therapy?
Gerson Therapy is a nutrition-based, holistic therapy which has seen much
controversy since it was first developed in the late 1920s.
Dr Max Gerson developed the Gerson Therapy after experimenting with eliminating
certain foods from his diet, in an effort to cure the migraines he frequently suffered
from. When he was successful, he set about developing the therapy as a whole,
believing that all the many toxins in the environment are what cause ill health and
poison the human body. This includes all of the pesticides and chemicals which
appear on produce, as well as the poor quality of processed foods.
So he developed a diet with the aim of ridding the body of these toxins and
maintaining health through the benefits of a revitalized immune system.
How does Gerson Therapy work?
Gerson Therapy is not a quick fix by any means, as it is recommended to be used
over the course of six to 18 months. A process, called by Gerson hyperalimentation,
occurs when the individual drinks 10-13 glasses of fresh, organic juices every day,
each hour, as well as three large vegan and organic meals plus numerous other
fruits and vegetables throughout the day too.
It is believed that by flooding the body with all of these natural nutrients, the body
can begin to rid itself of all the years of accumulated toxins. Gerson also developed a
coffee enema with the purpose of stimulating the liver to produce bile which would in
turn flush out toxins from the liver, as well as a number of supplements to replace
lost minerals and to help digestive processes.
All food in the diet must be organically grown and fresh and cannot include any
processed foods or drinks. It is also salt-free, and Gerson bans tobacco, alcohol and
pharmaceuticals as well.
What can Gerson Therapy be used for?
It is claimed that Gerson Therapy can be used for hundreds of conditions which have
been deemed incurable by conventional medicine, including cancer.
Is Gerson Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Despite the claims that it has been successful in curing 99 per cent of 1,500
conditions described as incurable, there is little undeniable evidence of this. The
Gerson Institute is quick to provide testimonials of satisfied patients. But without
backgrounds of those patients and total numbers of patients with that particular
illness having been successfully treated, there is no way to properly verify the
information. We cannot know whether or not it was just pure luck, or something else.
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Regarding claims that Gerson Therapy is the cure for cancer, the American Cancer
Society has stated that there is no scientific evidence of this and that the principles
used are not widely accepted in the US medical community.
Are there any known side effects with Gerson Therapy?
For people who wholeheartedly start the Gerson therapy diet, there are bound to be
a number of side effects felt because the body is suddenly having to change its ways
after many years of getting used to the foods we eat. So patients will feel different
and may have some ill effects.
Where can you find further information on Gerson Therapy?
The Gerson Institute
Gerson Support Group
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Gestalt Therapy
What is Gestalt therapy?
Gestalt therapy is a psychotherapy which, unlike many other forms of
psychotherapy, concentrates on the present moment rather than events which have
happened in the past. It has an emphasis on personal responsibility and examines
how the client experiences, and therefore copes or changes, their current
environment.
Gestalt therapy was developed by Fritz and Laura Perls and Paul Goodman between
the 1940s and 1950s. The word gestalt is German, and roughly translated means
whole or complete pattern/configuration.
It is a humanistic psychotherapy in that it helps the client to overcome symptoms
whilst making them become free of problems and unfinished issues which may be
blocking them from feeling good, fulfilled and able to grow. It is also a very
experiential psychotherapy.
How does Gestalt therapy work?
Gestalt therapy seeks to recognise the environment and reality in which a person is
living in and what their relationship with their world is. By working with any internal
conflict which is as a result of this relationship, and by resolving unfinished business,
the client can be helped to change their interaction with their environment, and
hence improve their quality of life.
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What can Gestalt therapy be used for?

Like most forms of psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy can be used with individuals,
whether they are children or adults, couples, families and groups, and can help with
a number of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and also for people who
feel that they have essentially lost their way in life.
Gestalt therapy concentrates on making them better as a whole, not just on fixing a
mental problem, for example.
Is Gestalt therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has been some research into the effectiveness of Gestalt therapy, though
considering what a widely used therapy it is, research has actually been quite
limited.
However, seeing as Gestalt therapy is so widely used and accepted in
psychotherapy terms, this would suggest that this is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Gestalt therapy?
There are no known side effects with Gestalt therapy.
Where can you find further information on Gestalt therapy?
The theory behind Gestalt therapy is very complex and there are many sources of
detailed articles and essays on the subject which you can read to find out more fully
what and how Gestalt therapy works. Here are a few links to some of the major
websites from where you can start:
Association for Advancement of Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt Centre UK
Association for Humanistic Psychology
Gestalt Therapy: An Introduction
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Grief Therapy
What is grief therapy?
Grief therapy is not to be confused with grief counselling as the two are in fact
different. Where grief counselling is used for the more common, or uncomplicated,
feelings of grief which arise from loss, grief therapy deals with far more complicated
reactions and uses clinical tools.
Grief therapy, for example then, would deal with people where their grief reaction is
far more prolonged than with common grievances, and/or where they have
developed some sort of behavioural symptom.
How does grief therapy work?
Grief therapy aims to help the client to separate from the person they have lost, by
identifying the problems they are having and hence solving these problems so that
the client can move on.
The client is encouraged to talk about the deceased and to recognise whether the
emotions they are feeling over their loss are of an expected level. They are then
encouraged and allowed to realise that they can have feelings of anger or guilt, or
other negative feelings, whilst at the same time remembering positive feelings about
the person who died, such as good memories.
Often the client may have blockages in the mourning process which will need to be
dealt with, and may include unfinished business with the deceased, such as things
they had meant to say to them or do with them. So the client is encouraged to see
that their loss is final and are encouraged to look at life beyond grieving.
What can grief therapy be used for?
Generally grief therapy would be used with clients who have suffered the loss of a
loved one or of a close friend, though this could also be the loss of a pet or following
a community disaster or trauma.
Different people deal with loss in many different ways, and complicated grief
reactions can occur at any time, sometimes long after the loss, and hence are not
always first identified as grief.
Is grief therapy an effective form of therapy?
It has proved difficult to measure the effectiveness of grief therapy because of the
difficulty in actually measuring grief. But it would seem that grief therapy is an
effective form of therapy in at least helping the client to deal with their grief even if it
doesnt cure their grief altogether.
Are there any known side effects with grief therapy?
There are no known side effects with grief therapy.
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Where can you find further information on grief therapy?
What is Grief Counselling & Therapy?
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Group Therapy
What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a term which can be used to cover a whole host of different
therapies, though is generally regarded as a type of psychotherapy where one or
more therapists will treat a small group of clients rather than just individuals.
Group therapy was initially started as a way of cutting costs and increasing efficiency
as the benefit was obviously being able to treat multiple clients in the space of time it
would usually have taken to treat one. However, psychotherapists quickly saw that
group therapy actually had additional benefits to the clients too, and it began to be
offered to clients on a more regular basis.
How does group therapy work?
How exactly group therapy works will depend on what condition is actually being
treated, though group therapy will obviously have a number of commonalities.
Often group therapy is a talk-based therapy where clients are encouraged to share
their feelings and ideas. The major benefit over individual one-to-one therapy is that
each client can see that they are not alone in suffering with the condition they have,
and this is very helpful in helping them to cope and overcome the problem. Group
therapy also benefits clients in discovering what has worked well for other sufferers
and gives them the chance to try different methods.
Group therapy is also a much more supportive environment for clients than individual
therapy would be and can encourage social skills.
What can group therapy be used for?
Group therapy can be used as a form of treatment for the majority of
psychotherapies which are commonly practiced today.
Is group therapy an effective form of therapy?
The effectiveness of group therapy depends to a certain extent on what condition is
being treated. However, group therapy as a whole is believed to be a successful and
effective method of therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with group therapy?
There are no known side effects with group therapy.
Where can you find further information on group therapy?
American Group Psychotherapy Association
A directory of UK Groups
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Gua Sha Therapy

What is Gua Sha therapy?
Gua Sha is an ancient medical treatment which is still commonly used today by
traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and also as a folk technique across
China, Vietnam and other Asian countries.
Gua Sha translates literally as to scrape for cholera and is sometimes referred to by
the French name tribo-effleurage. It is an ancient technique which essentially
scrapes the skin and can be used for a variety of conditions, both as a preventative
measure and a remedial treatment.
Gua Sha is becoming more commonly practiced in the Western world now with the
popularity of traditional Chinese medicine increasing.
How does Gua Sha therapy work?
Gua Sha is commonly used by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, but is not
only restricted to their use as it is commonly used across Asia by the general
population who treat themselves and family members with this therapy. By folk this
means that it is used by folk in other words, the common people, and that it is
safe for folk to use.
Gua Sha therapy involves repeated pressured strokes over the skin, which is usually
lubricated, much like scraping, as the translation of the name suggests. A smooth
edge is used, which could be any number of implements such as a coin, animal
bones or jade though commonly this is a ceramic Chinese soup spoon.
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Pressure is applied and then moved down the muscles or along the acupuncture
meridians. Each stroke would be about four to six inches long. This process forces
the blood out of its vessels and can leave blemishing on the skin, which usually
disappears within a few days. The marks are said to not be painful, despite looking
that way!
What can Gua Sha therapy be used for?
There are many conditions which Gua Sha is commonly used for. These include:
reducing fever, treating muscle and tendon injuries, helping circulation, headache,
fatigue due to exposure to heat or cold, sun-stroke, digestive disorders, pain, urinary
and gynaecological disorders, and coughs and dyspnea, though this list is by no
means exhaustive.
Is Gua Sha therapy an effective form of therapy?
As Gua Sha is considered to be an alternative therapy in the Western world, there
have not been any studies into its effectiveness. However, as this practice has been
used for thousands of years and is still commonly used across many countries to this
day, it would tend to suggest that there must be a certain amount of effectiveness in
the use of it as a therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Gua Sha therapy?
The only known side effects are the possibility of blemishes on the skin which will go
within a few days. Linked with this is the possibility that the marks will be mistaken
for physical abuse.
Where can you find further information on Gua Sha therapy?
Chinese Medicine What is Gua Sha?
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Guided Imagery Therapy

What is guided imagery therapy?
Guided imagery therapy is an alternative medicine relaxation technique, much like
meditation, which can be used by everybody, not just trained therapists.
Guided imagery has been used in one form or another for thousands of years.
Ancient Egyptians and Greeks believed that imagery was very important and thought
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that having a strong image of a disease could actually cause the symptoms to occur.
On the other hand, the Navajo Indians of North American believed that they could
picture themselves healthy to rid themselves of illnesses.
There is also a fully recognised psychotherapy method, called guided affective
imagery, which is practiced by qualified psychotherapists who use guided mental
imagery and discussions to work through problems.
How does guided imagery therapy work?
Guided imagery therapy works by directing your thoughts to lead your imagination to
finding a relaxed and focused state and is based on the principle that your mind and
body are connected.
In other words, by imagining something, your body reacts in some way. This
principle is used in guided imagery therapy, because by imagining a peaceful
thought or image, the body will react by becoming more relaxed.
Guided imagery therapy can be guided by somebody, for example, a practitioner, or
an audio tape, or it can be guided by the individual. Because of this, it can be done
by just about anyone, in any situation.
What can guided imagery therapy be used for?
The main benefit of guided imagery therapy is to create a sense of relaxation and to
diminish stress. Other benefits will stem from this. A relaxed state, for example, will
aid the body in healing, learning and creativity and has also been used to aid
performance.
Athletes can use it for relaxation, although they can also use imagery techniques to
help directly with their performance, for example, visualising a golf hole, or a racing
track.
Is guided imagery therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been a number of clinical studies into the effectiveness of guided
imagery therapy when used for a variety of purposes, and results have been very
positive.
Studies included effectiveness in boosting immunity, with menstrual stress,
depression, lowering blood pressure, slowing heart rates, treating obesity, insomnia
and phobias.
Are there any known side effects with guided imagery therapy?
There are no known side effects with guided imagery therapy.
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Where can you find further information on guided imagery therapy?

Holistic Online Information on Guided imagery Therapy
Academy for Guided Imagery
Eupsychia.com information on guided imagery
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Gyrotonic Therapy
What is Gyrotonic therapy?
Gyrotonic therapy encompasses use of the Gyrotonic Expansion System (GXS) and
Gyrokinesis, and is an exercise system which was created by Juliu Horvath. It is a
system which has been compared to Pilates but is said to offer far more opportunity
for bending the limbs than Pilates does.
Juliu Horvath was a ballet dancer who sought asylum in the United States in the
1960s. When he developed an injury he was unable to dance anymore, and began
to practice yoga. He developed a system based on yoga, called Yoga for Dancers,
which was later developed into Gyrokinesis.
Gyrokinesis is a series of exercises which do not require the use of equipment, whilst
Gyrotonic exercises make use of equipment specially designed by Horvath.
How does Gyrotonic therapy work?
Gyrotonic therapy is performed using Gyrotonic exercise equipment, and the
exercises are performed in conjunction with breathing techniques which also help to
aid aerobic and cardiovascular stimulation. This in turn encourages neuro-muscular
rejuvenation.
The benefit of the Gyrotonic system is that it enables freedom of movement and
fluidity of exercises.
The apparatus are not weight based, but based on a pulley system. So the user will
not experience the jarring usually associated with lifting weights on conventional
apparatus.
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What can Gyrotonic therapy be used for?

Gyrotonic exercises are said to be able to offer the same benefits as yoga, tai chi,
gymnastics, dance and swimming combined.
The system stretches and strengthens muscles and connective tissues and is hence
good for dancers and athletes, though the way the system is designed means that it
can be used by people of varying body strengths and types too, and hence the
general population could benefit greatly from this system for maintaining a healthy
and strong body.
Is Gyrotonic therapy an effective form of therapy?
There are no specific studies relating to the effectiveness of Gyrotonic therapy,
although the producer, Horvath, used these systems himself to recover from injury
and is said to have put many years of study and self-exploration into the design of
the equipment. This says nothing concrete about its effectiveness. But it can be
assumed that this is still a good method of exercise for people looking to maintain
their fitness levels.
Are there any known side effects with Gyrotonic therapy?
There are no known side effects with Gyrotonic therapy. However, as with all forms
of exercise there will be precautions and preparation that should be followed prior to
starting.
Where can you find further information on Gyrotonic therapy?
Gyrotonic.com official website
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H
Hair Analysis Therapy
What is hair analysis therapy?
Hair analysis may refer to two different concepts:
the chemical analysis of hair samples which is often used in forensic

toxicology and is a recognised and important form of analysis
the concept used in alternative medicine as a form of diagnosis of health
issues and is a somewhat controversial and unrecognised form of therapy
It is this second concept that this article will be discussing in more detail.
The use of hair analysis as an alternative therapy first began in the 1970s. A
Californian paediatrician, named Dr Lodge-Rees, further developed an experimental
idea of using animal hide to test for mineral content and therefore the healthiness of
the animal, by using instead human hair.
Since this time, there have been numerous studies into whether hair analysis
therapy is an accurate and hence effective form of therapy. And whilst there are
positive indicators, the general consensus is that this is, and will remain, an
alternative therapy. You can read more about these arguments below.
How does hair analysis therapy work?
The client will provide a hair sample, which is usually instructed to be taken from the
nape of the neck. This will be a small clump of hair measuring between to 1 in
length, not just one strand. The hair is then analysed by a mass spectrometer which
measures for the presence and amount of minerals and sometimes metals which
appear within the hair.
A report is then generated showing the client where they may be lacking in minerals
and nutrients. Often, depending on the company involved, a programme of nutritional
and mineral supplements may be recommended to address any deficiencies. Some
companies may also attempt to make further diagnosis from the hair sample, by
suggesting far more serious complications and possible illnesses. It is more these
hair analysis therapy companies which customers should be most wary of.
What can hair analysis therapy be used for?
Hair analysis therapy is generally used as a means of testing a clients overall health.
An analysis is supposedly able to pick up deficiencies in minerals and metals and
hence suggest what the client may be lacking in terms of nutrition by suggesting a
different diet and/or nutritional and mineral supplements.
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Is hair analysis therapy an effective form of therapy?
Hair analysis therapy is a somewhat controversial form of alternative therapy with
differing opinions as to its effectiveness.
The medical world does not disagree that hair analysis can be useful in certain
respects. Within forensic toxicology, it is very useful, for example, and it can also be
useful for analysis of a population. For instance, it can be used to make comparisons
between different groups of people, i.e. one group suffering from a particular disease
and one group that is not, as this can be used to compare differences on a more
general level. However, it is not recognised that hair analysis therapy alone can be
used to diagnose specific diseases.
The main problems within this field of alternative medicine are that there do not
appear to be standardised methods and techniques used for actually analysing the
hair in the first place. Secondly, there is a lack of standardisation in the interpretation
of the results. And finally, there is a lack of agreement as to what treatment is
necessary.
Proponents of hair analysis therapy claim that mineral deficiencies and heavy metal
poisoning can be determined by a hair analysis, and that this in turn can identify
more serious conditions. It is true that some heavy metal toxicities can be
determined by hair analysis, but this should not be considered a generalisation.
Are there any known side effects with hair analysis therapy?
There are no known side effects with hair analysis therapy.
Where can you find further information on hair analysis therapy?
Quackwatch article on Commercial Hair Analysis
About.com article on Study Questions: Reliability of Hair Analysis
The Trichological Society
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Hakomi Therapy
What is Hakomi therapy?
Hakomi therapy is a type of somatic or body psychotherapy which takes a holistic
approach, drawing on many different theories and belief systems. The ultimate aim is
to help people change the way they interact with the world and in so doing change
core beliefs, resulting in a far more harmonious way of living.
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Hakomi therapy was developed by therapist Ron Kurtz from the 1970s and into the
1980s. In 1981, the Hakomi Institute was founded in order to increase awareness
and educate others in its ways, although in the late 1980s, Kurtz actually left the
institute to further develop his method. He has now created a variation on Hakomi
therapy which is more mindfulness based.
The word Hakomi is a Hopi Indian word which on a basic level means who are
you? This word was chosen because of its links to mindfulness, and because of the
ultimate aims of Hakomi therapy.
How does Hakomi therapy work?
Hakomi therapy is based upon five principles: mindfulness, non-violence, organicity,
unity and mind-body connection. These principles are foremost in a therapists work
with a client which generally utilises six stages to work towards a final goal:
create a relationship between therapist and client whereby it maximises

safety, respect and the cooperation of the unconscious
establish mindfulness this is when the therapist will help the client to study
how they organise their experiences
evoke experience having looked at how experiences are organised within
the mind, the client and therapist attempt to make contact with the associated
core feelings, memories and beliefs
state specific processing when the client is ready the therapist will help
them to transition to state-specific processing, the three states being
mindfulness, strong emotions and child-like consciousness
transformation at this point, the client becomes aware that healing
experiences are possible and begin to occur
integration once new healing experiences occur, the therapist can work
with the client to make connections between these and the rest of the clients
experiences, hence aiming for a complete healing process
What can Hakomi therapy be used for?

It is stated that Hakomi therapy can be effective in many different therapeutic
situations whether it is work on an individual basis, with couples, with families or
in groups. It is said to be most useful for people who are looking for personal growth
and change and who are prepared to strive further than their known limits.
The Hakomi Institute states that Because Hakomi attends to the very nature of
being human, it is easily adapted to support whatever tasks and adventures people
pursue. Hence this would suggest that the uses for Hakomi therapy are essentially
endless.
Is Hakomi therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has not been a great deal of study into Hakomi therapy on its own as an
effective form of therapy and in addition, therapies which utilise mindfulness
techniques are not always immediately accepted in the mainstream. For these
reasons it is difficult to say with complete accuracy whether or not Hakomi therapy is
an effective form of therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with Hakomi therapy?

There are no known side effects with Hakomi therapy.
Where can you find further information on Hakomi therapy?
The Hakomi Institute
Hakomi Education Network
Hakomi UK
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Hawaiian or Lomi Lomi Massage Therapy

What is lomi lomi massage therapy?
Lomi lomi massage is the traditional name for the massage therapy sometimes
referred to as Hawaiian massage. Rather than simply being a massage therapy
though, lomi lomi is more of a holistic healing tradition which is gaining in popularity
in Europe and Japan and is obviously especially popular in Hawaii too.
Polynesian settlers brought traditions of massage therapy with them when they first
landed on the Hawaiian Islands, and this form of massage evolved into a healing
practice as well. It was practised all over the islands by people of all ages and was
immensely popular.
However, when American missionaries arrived in 1820, they prohibited what were
considered heathen worship and healing practises and hence lomi lomi as a
medical practice was forced underground. However, the laws did not ban lomi lomi
as a massage therapy and this continues to this day.
How does lomi lomi massage therapy work?
Lomi lomi massage therapy is performed using several parts of the body in addition
to the palms and fingers, including knuckles, forearm, elbows, knees and feet as well
as inanimate objects such as sticks and stones.
The massage is given from head to toe using continuous and flowing strokes which
are gentle yet deep and are said to be performed by loving hands (an alternative
name for lomi lomi). The massage encourages energies to flow throughout the body
which might otherwise have been blocked, and generates an overall feeling of deep
relaxation.
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What can lomi lomi massage therapy be used for?
Despite having lost much of the traditional uses of lomi lomi massage therapy, many
practitioners do use massage in combination with other elements, such as asking
clients to partake in prayer, meditation, changing their diets and other self-help
remedies in order to promote overall health and well-being.
Generally nowadays though, lomi lomi massage therapy is used chiefly as a form of
massage.
Is lomi lomi massage therapy an effective form of therapy?
Having been used popularly for hundreds of years in Hawaii as a therapy, and over
the last hundred or so years as a popular form of massage, would tend to suggest
that lomi lomi massage therapy is an effective form of therapy. This is also further
backed-up by the fact that lomi lomi is now gaining in popularity around the world.
Are there any known side effects with lomi lomi massage therapy?
There are no known side effects with lomi lomi massage therapy.
Where can you find further information on lomi lomi massage therapy?
Aloha International Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
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Heliotherapy
What is heliotherapy?
Heliotherapy is a type of light therapy. It is a term which has been adopted by the
tanning and spa industry to describe this, a medical form of light therapy, which is
essentially a glorified term for sunbathing!
This article will briefly describe the specifics of heliotherapy. But you can find out
more about light therapy in general within the light therapy entry.
Heliotherapy is exposure to light, usually within the UVA and UVB range for medical
reasons. This can include direct sunlight, though usually it involves the use of
tanning beds, booths and lamps.
How does heliotherapy work?
Heliotherapy works by subjecting the patient to levels of light which would usually be
pre-determined by a doctor depending on the condition that is being treated. Several
conditions may be treated in this way, and how they work depends on the condition.
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Sessions are often given at the doctors office, though it is becoming more common
now for doctors to prescribe sessions in a tanning bed such as at a tanning or spa
centre.
What can heliotherapy be used for?
Heliotherapy can be used for several different conditions, including skin conditions
such as eczema and psoriasis, plus Vitamin D deficiency and seasonal affective
disorder (SAD).
Is heliotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Heliotherapy would appear to be an effective form of therapy which is recognised by
the medical world.
Are there any known side effects with heliotherapy?
There are risks with heliotherapy, just as there are with regular exposure to the sun
and UV rays. If treatment is undertaken as prescribed, then the possibility of side
effects should be very minimal.
Where can you find further information on heliotherapy?
You can read more about light therapy in general in the light therapy entry, plus the
following website:
Guide to Heliotherapy
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Helminthic Therapy
What is helminthic therapy?
Helminthic therapy is the use of parasitic worms, known as helminths, in order to
treat autoimmune diseases and immune disorders.
Just the thought of what is involved in this therapy may be enough to put some
patients off (see below). But helminthic therapy is so far proving to have very
successful treatment results.
It has stemmed from much research into why certain autoimmune diseases,
disorders and allergies are so much more rarely found in people living in less
developed countries, whilst in developed and industrialised countries the numbers
have been steadily increasing for some time.
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There are several reasons as to why scientists believe this is happening, but the
chief reason is that in developed countries people are now far less exposed to
bacteria, parasites and viruses. There is such an emphasis here on cleanliness and
sanitisation. Hence naturally occurring parasites which can actually do humans some
good, are not being seen so often.
How does helminthic therapy work?
Helminthic therapy works by using parasitic worms, known as helminths. Being
parasitic means that they feed off of their host by living inside the human body, and
although sometimes this is not good for humans because the helminths can disrupt
our nutrient absorption and cause disease, certain types of helminths can actually do
more good than harm.
There are two types of helminths which have been shown to be effective
hookworms (cecator americanus) and pig whipworm eggs (trichuris suis ova), and
the patient is infected with one or the other.
Hookworms have a relatively long lifespan inside the human body of five years and
hence, once they enter the body they will stay there during this time and further
treatments are only required at five-yearly intervals. The pig whipworm eggs on the
other hand have a very short lifespan of just two to three weeks and hence regular
doses are required.
What can helminthic therapy be used for?
Helminthic therapy is currently most commonly being used to treat Crohns disease,
multiple sclerosis, asthma, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative
colitis, dermatitis and allergies including hay fever and food allergies.
Is helminthic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Research and actual treatments of helminthic therapy are showing extremely
favourable results. It would appear that helminthic therapy is generally far more
effective than orthodox medicines.
Are there any known side effects with helminthic therapy?
It should first be pointed out that although these are parasites, these particular
helminths have been chosen for a number of reasons:
First, they cannot reproduce in humans, and hence the numbers (or dosage so to
speak) can be strictly controlled.
Secondly, these helminths do not have the ability to cause additional disease in the
human body and cannot be used as a driving force for infection by other parasites,
bacteria or viruses.
Thirdly, they are completely compatible with existing medication and can hence be
used in conjunction with such.
Finally, if need be, they can be easily eradicated from the host.
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All of these conditions mean that the potential for serious side effects and
implications are limited.
In addition, when compared to conventional medications which are commonly used
for treating these conditions, the side effects suffered with helminthic therapy are
actually very minimal and far less problematic than with medications.
There are very few side effects with pig whipworm eggs, though there are more
reported with hookworm. There has been a huge range of side effects reported, and
they vary substantially from person to person. But they have included a rash at the
site of inoculation, diarrhoea, bloating, cramping, nausea and fatigue.
Where can you find further information on helminthic therapy?
Wikipedia entry on helminthic therapy
Helminthic therapy website
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Herbal Medicine
What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is also referred to as herbalism, herbology and phytotherapy,
though all these names encompass the main principal, which is the use of plants and
plant extracts as a traditional or folk medicine.
Plants have been used by people all over the world for thousands of years, and there
is in fact evidence of plant use going back to prehistoric times.
Over the centuries, more and more plants have been tried for different conditions,
sometimes with negative effects, until today when we now have a very
comprehensive list of safe plants and their benefits.
There are several traditions of herbal medicine in use around the world today the
ayurvedic system from India, Chinese herbal medicine, the system based on Greek
and Roman sources, Unani Tibb medicine and shamanic herbalism.
However, plants are also used in a great many common drugs used by conventional
medical practices, such as opium and aspirin. And it is estimated by the World
Health Organisation that 80 per cent of the worlds population uses herbal medicine
in some form or another within primary health care.
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How does herbal medicine work?
Herbal medicine can be looked at from two viewpoints:
First, plants are commonly used by pharmaceutical companies for a huge number of
common drugs, therefore indicating that we make use of herbal medicine in our
everyday lives.
But secondly, there is the use of herbal medicine in more ancient traditions. This is
practised by herbalists, and is more a form of alternative medicine using the plant in
its raw form.
Herbalists will have an extensive knowledge of which plants can be used for which
conditions and may treat a client with just one herb or a combination of several,
depending on the illness.
What can herbal medicine be used for?
Herbal medicine can be used for a huge variety of conditions. Follow the links below
for further information.
Is herbal medicine an effective form of therapy?
Over the last 15 years, there has been a huge rise in the number of studies and/or
research papers written on herbal medicine and its effectiveness. But coming to an
overall conclusion on whether or not herbal medicine is an effective form of therapy
seems to be difficult because of the standards of testing.
It is reported that often the trials which show the most positive results have been the
worst conducted, and vice versa, and hence there needs to be a standard for testing.
However, as mentioned above, many plants are already used in conventional
medical practices and commonly used drugs, proving that these particular ones have
been tested for efficacy.
It should only be a matter of time before testing is conducted to a certain standard. In
the meantime, the fact that herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years
would tend to suggest that it must be good for something!
Are there any known side effects with herbal medicine?
Side effects and risks with taking common drugs which have been manufactured
using plants are usually very minimal. But, of course, all information leaflets received
with drugs should be read thoroughly before using them.
Using herbal medicine in its more raw form can present a number of risks and
possible side effects because many of the plants used can be toxic. An experienced
practitioner in herbal medicine should have the knowledge required so as not to put
the client in any danger though but caution should be used all the same.
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Where can you find further information on herbal medicine?
Wikipedia entry on herbalism
National Institute of Medical Herbalists
American Herbalists Guild
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Hippotherapy
What is hippotherapy?
Hippotherapy is a type of therapy which is specifically designed for use with horses
in order to improve physical, occupational and speech functions of the clients who
use it. It is called this because it comes from the Greek word for horse, which is
hippo.
Hippotherapy is one of several therapies which utilises horses for its treatment,
although is different in that it does not teach riding skills. Instead, it uses the
movement of the horse and direct interaction with the therapist to improve motor
skills of the rider.
Hippotherapy has developed as a therapy since the 1960s when therapeutic riding
centres began opening up across North America and Europe. Around this time,
horses began to be viewed as an important extra in various forms of physical therapy
and the process became known as hippotherapy.
How does hippotherapy work?
Hippotherapy works in several ways first, it can help both adults and children with
neuromusculoskeletal problems to aid in improving their posture, coordination,
balance, muscle tone and general motor development.
Second, the horse provides both a physical and sensory input for the rider. There is
a rhythmic movement, which encourages the rider to move with the horse and when
the horse changes gait, the rider has to adjust.
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Thirdly, there are benefits to the riders speech and language skills as the movement
of the horse has been found to cause natural reactions which encourage speech and
language.
What can hippotherapy be used for?
Hippotherapy can be used for a number of medical conditions, including cerebral
palsy, learning disabilities, traumatic brain injury and stroke, autism spectrum
disorder, developmental delay and sensory integration disorders.
In addition, hippotherapy can help with many physical impairments too which are not
directly related to any of the above conditions. For example, abnormal muscle tone,
impaired coordination, impaired communication, impaired sensory-motor function,
poor postural control and impaired balance responses.
Is hippotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Hippotherapy has been growing in popularity over the last 30 years, which would
tend to suggest that there is adequate evidence of its effectiveness as a form of
therapy. Hippotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments. It does not
use a therapist trained as a hippotherapist but rather between one and three other
therapists who are trained within their own fields. These are physical therapists,
occupational therapists and speech therapists that use horses as an additional
means of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with hippotherapy?
There are no known side effects with hippotherapy.
Where can you find further information on hippotherapy?
American Hippotherapy Association
BBC News article on Hippotherapy
Riding for the Disabled
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Holistic Medicine
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, or holistic health as it is also known, is frequently associated with
alternative medicine, although it is in fact being used more regularly in conventional
medicine practice in the Western world. Unlike alternative medicine, holistic
medicine uses all possible avenues as a way of treatment, including drugs and
surgery if necessary.
The main principle behind holistic medicine is that it looks at the body and mind as a
whole and considers external factors which can affect either. These factors can
include the lifestyle and spiritual, social, environmental and nutritional values of the
patient or client. It is described as an approach to life.
Holistic medicine has its background in the ancient traditions of China and India
where they believed that living a healthy life was living in harmony with nature. Later,
Socrates believed that treating one part of the body was futile unless you treated the
body as a whole.
How does holistic medicine work?
Holistic medicine looks at the whole when a person is ill. So rather than just treating
the obvious ailment, practitioners attempt to find the root of the problem and can
recommend treatments or changes in lifestyle which will support the bodys natural
healing process.
For example, if you have a headache and take medication to get rid of that
headache, all you are doing is blocking the pain you experience, though not actually
addressing what was the cause of the headache in the first place. Holistic medicine
attempts to use the headache as a sign that something is wrong and work from
there.
What can holistic medicine be used for?
The principles of holistic medicine can be applied to just about everything. And rather
than just being something that is recommended because you are ill, holistic
medicine, and more correctly, holistic health, can actually be a part of your life.
By adopting the principles in our everyday lives we will support a much healthier
body and mind which will lead to our better overall health. Hence holistic medicine is
about making lifestyle changes.
Is holistic medicine an effective form of therapy?
The fundamentals of holistic medicine are becoming more and more accepted as
people realise that health is directly connected to our lifestyle and environment.
And the fact that holistic medicine is now being regularly practised alongside
conventional medicine practices would suggest that it is definitely an effective form of
therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with holistic medicine?
There are no known side effects with holistic medicine.
Where can you find further information on holistic medicine?
American Holistic Health Association
Holistic Community
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Homeopathy
What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy is an alternative medicine which is based on the assumption that illness
is caused by disturbances in our life force, and that this life force is able to react and
change to both internal and external causes, referred to as the law of susceptibility.
This law states that by having negative thoughts, our minds can more easily attract
diseases.
Homeopathy was developed by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, in the
late 1700s. Hahnemann discovered that when certain remedies were taken by a
healthy person, they actually caused symptoms of other illnesses. He set about
testing a huge variety of drugs with the assumption that whatever symptoms the drug
produced, it could also cure i.e. a like for like basis, which came to be called the
law of similars.
Believing that by taking the drug in large doses would only make an illness worse, he
developed extremely diluted versions of the substances and named his therapy
homeopathy.
After a rise to popularity in the 1800s, homeopathy began to be criticised and since
the early 1900s its use has very much declined. Homeopathy is still practised around
the world though, and is having a rise in popularity in countries like India where it is
now considered to be a part of traditional medicine.
How does homeopathy work?
Homeopathic practitioners will select remedies for treatment of a client after a
consultation in which they discuss the clients physical and psychological state, as
this is an important aspect to consider when choosing the remedy.
Remedies will then be chosen by consulting various guides which list the symptoms
with the treatments, and the client will be given the appropriate remedy.
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What can homeopathy be used for?

It is understood that homeopathy can be used for a very large number of illnesses
and diseases. There are approximately 3,000 different remedies in use today,
though each one would not work with just one disease, and many different remedies
may in fact be needed to treat a single disease.
Is homeopathy an effective form of therapy?
Even as homeopathy was rising in popularity in the early 1800s, there were already
strong criticisms as to its effectiveness. The main criticism is that the remedies use
such highly diluted drugs that there is no chance that the remedy could actually
contain enough of the drug to have any effect at all, beyond a placebo effect.
In addition, there is no scientific evidence from clinical studies which is able to prove
that homeopathy does have any effect, and because the principles seem to oppose
the fundamental principles of modern medicine, it is highly regarded as
pseudoscience.
Are there any known side effects with homeopathy?
Homeopathy is generally considered to be a safe form of therapy with only very rare
occurrences of side effects being reported.
Where can you find further information on homeopathy?
Questions and Answers about Homeopathy
HomeoWatch sceptical guide to homeopathy
British Homeopathic Association
National Center For Homeopathy
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Hormone Replacement Therapy

What is hormone replacement therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is also commonly known as hormone
therapy (HT). It is usually used in one of two ways as a menopausal treatment, and
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as a treatment for transgender or transsexual people who wish to make the change
from man to woman, or woman to man although these are not the only reasons.
For menopausal treatment, HRT uses drugs to artificially increase the hormones
which are being naturally reduced as the body goes through the menopausal
changes. For men and women receiving HRT for transgender purposes, the
hormones are designed to replace those which naturally occur in men and women,
with those of the other sex.
How does hormone replacement therapy work?
Obviously the general aim of hormone replacement therapy is to replace hormones,
whether it is replacing ones which are diminishing, or replacing ones which are there
with ones which are not naturally there.
There has been a certain amount of controversy surrounding hormone replacement
therapy for menopausal women in recent years, since a study was released which
suggested that the standard artificial hormones usually used could be associated
with increased risks of breast cancer, heart attack and stroke. Since this time there
has been more interest for menopausal women in natural hormone replacement
therapy, which you can read all about in its own entry. You will also find further
information as to how HRT works for menopausal women there.
For transgender treatment of a female to male, hormones are taken which are
intended to increase features commonly associated with men (called secondary sex
characteristics). The hormones used are called androgens, and the most commonly
known and frequently used one is testosterone. Testosterone causes the following
changes: deepening of the voice, growth of facial and body hair, enlargement of the
clitoris, redistribution of fat, increased muscle development especially in the upper
body, increased sweat and changes in body odour, increased libido and acne,
amongst others.
For transgender HRT for a male to female, the hormones taken are called estrogens
and these are deigned to give the man more womanly features which include:
enlarging of the breasts, thinning of skin, redistribution of body fat, reduced body
hair, reduced muscle development, decreased libido and change in odour and sweat
production amongst others. But HRT is not able to completely change a man from a
woman and a woman from a man. It is merely a treatment which can give the person
certain features which are more characteristic of the opposite sex and hence make
that person more comfortable with themselves.
There are surgeries available (called sexual reassignment surgery) which can make
further physical changes. But, at present, these are not as advanced to be able to
completely change sexes of a person for example, a transwoman would not be
capable of becoming pregnant, and a transman would not be capable of producing
sperm.
What can hormone replacement therapy be used for?
As already described, hormone replacement therapy is generally used for
menopausal women and for transgender or transsexual who wants to change so as
to appear more like the other sex.
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Hormone replacement therapy may also be used by men (for example, athletes) who
wish to have a hair-free body.
Is hormone replacement therapy an effective form of therapy?
As regards the effectiveness of HRT for menopausal women, it is generally
considered that it is by no means essential. But it can be helpful for some women in
combating additional problems such as depression. In the transgender and
transsexual world, it appears that HRT plays an important part in the well-being of
people who feel that they have the wrong gender as it allows them to become more
like the gender they feel they should be. As mentioned above though, HRT on its
own is not capable of completely changing a person from one sex to another.
Are there any known side effects with hormone replacement therapy?
Menopausal women taking standard HRT should be aware of the risks which were
highlighted in the Womens Health Initiative study. This found there to be increased
risk of contracting breast cancer, having strokes and of heart attacks. Natural
hormone replacement therapy may be a safer option, but there are also risks with
this. The best advice for menopausal women who are concerned about their
changes is to discuss the options with their doctor.
For transgender and transsexual people there are also risks in taking hormone
replacement therapy. For transmen taking androgen, contraindications can include
coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, migraines, sleep apnoea, elevated red blood
cell count, renal failure, severe hypertension, breast cancer and uterine cancer.
For transwomen taking oestrogens, contraindications can include oestrogen
sensitive cancer (e.g. breast cancer), liver, kidney, heart disease, or stroke,
peripheral vascular disease, sickle cell anaemia and hypertension amongst others.
Where can you find further information on hormone replacement therapy?
Wikipedia entry on HRT for the menopause also see the entry on natural hormone
replacement therapy.
Female to male
Wikipedia entry on HRT for female to male
Forge Forward information on testosterone and HRT
Male to female
Wikipedia entry on hormone replacement therapy for Male to Female
Transgender Expressions MtF hormone FAQs
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Humour Therapy
What is humour therapy?
Laughter is the best medicine is true to a certain extent as it is believed by the
medical world that laughter can extend our life expectancy, improve our health, and
improve our overall well-being. There are actually several forms of therapy related to
this, including humour therapy, clown therapy, laughter therapy and laughter
meditation. However humour therapy is actually practiced as a psychological
therapy.
Humour therapy is sometimes also referred to as therapeutic humour. It encourages
discussion of humorous experiences through watching or reading humorous
materials, which can in turn also lead to laughter and bring the client the benefits
associated with laughter too.
How does humour therapy work?
Humour therapy can take place in groups or just with individuals, and will involve
exposure to some sort of humorous material this could be a book, a film, a story or
anything else of a humorous nature.
Whilst the client is watching, listening or reading, they may laugh and hence there
will be therapeutic benefits of laughter. However, this isnt the only result of humour
therapy. Once the film or show, or whatever the source of humour is, has finished
the client or clients are encouraged to discuss their own humorous experiences
i.e. what they found funny and why.
This discussion can be beneficial to the client in several ways because it
encourages communication, interaction with the group (if applicable) and it can aid
the therapist in helping the client too, by giving a basis for discussion of other
matters.
What can humour therapy be used for?
Humour therapy can be used to give people the benefits associated with laughter.
These benefits include helping to protect the heart, lowering blood sugar levels,
decreasing stress levels, increasing the immune system and strengthening muscles.
In addition, humour therapy can benefit people with psychological and mental
problems.
Is humour therapy an effective form of therapy?
It would appear that laughter is undisputed as being a good form of therapy and
hence the benefits that laughter will bring from humour therapy can be considered to
be effective. The difficulty with humour therapy is that it would usually be more
effective as a therapy performed in a group setting. However, different people find
different things funny, and hence finding something that all members of the group will
find funny is a difficult task.
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Are there any known side effects with humour therapy?

There are no known side effects with humour therapy, short of laughing so hard that
you injure yourself!
Where can you find further information on humour therapy?
Humour Therapy for Cancer Patients
Holistic Online Humour Therapy
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Hydrotherapy
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is the use of water for treating diseases and for soothing pains, and
was previously known as hydropathy.
Water has long been recognised for its beneficial properties. Bathing featured
heavily in Egyptians, Romans and Greeks lives. And for Romans particularly, bathing
in hot natural water springs was very popular and was believed to increase
circulation.
Water has also long been popular for exercising and is well appreciated for the
benefits this can bring.
How does hydrotherapy work?
Hydrotherapy can work in two ways firstly mechanically, and secondly thermally.
By mechanically, this means the natural massaging movements of the water against
your body and the benefits of such. And when the water has been pressurised for
example if it is jetted the body will react to the sensations this produces by
increasing circulation and relaxing muscles. By thermally means the reaction of the
body to temperature, whether this is hot or cold temperature, as either can be used.
When the body is immersed in hot water, the reactions experienced are soothing and
calming and hence the body will slow down. Cold water, on the other hand, has the
opposite effect, essentially shocking the organs into faster operation, and so
invigorates the body.
Water also has another effect on the body. When you are submerged in water, the
body becomes partially weightless and hence has a relieving effect from the constant
pull of gravity which our bodies suffer from.
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As well as the obvious submersion in water, there are also various other methods
used in hydrotherapy, each with their own techniques and benefits. These include
douches, cold rubbings, wraps and packs, saunas and steam baths, and herbal
baths.
What can hydrotherapy be used for?
Hydrotherapy in general can be used to aid circulation, to boost the immune system,
to stimulate digestion and for pain relief, though as stated above benefits do vary
with the actual method used.
Is hydrotherapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been numerous studies into the effectiveness of hydrotherapy, for which
results were positive in favour of it being effective in the treatment of various
musculoskeletal conditions.
Are there any known side effects with hydrotherapy?
There are no direct side effects with hydrotherapy, though there are precautions
which should be followed for people who suffer from a variety of conditions. These
include precautions for those who suffer from diabetes, Raynauds disease, multiple
sclerosis, pregnant women, heart disease, very high or very low blood pressure, the
elderly and children, sciatica, pelvic inflammation, rheumatism and people who are
prone to bladder or rectal irritation.
Where can you find further information on hydrotherapy?
Holistic Online page on hydrotherapy
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is also known as hyperbaric medicine, and involves the
use of oxygen at higher pressures than usually experienced with atmospheric
pressure.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the use of an oxygen chamber similar to those
which have traditionally been used by navies around the world for treating divers.
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Other medicinal benefits have been realised more recently, and hence oxygen
chambers have become more commonplace in hospitals and clinics and are used for
a variety of treatments in the Western world today.
How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy works by giving the body a fast and high concentration of
oxygen within an oxygen chamber, and this is done in the following way:
The patient enters the chamber and the pressure inside is increased to the level
required. The patient is then given a dose of 100 per cent oxygen through a hood, for
a certain amount of time, depending on what is being treated. The patient may be
alone in the chamber or if it is a larger chamber there could be several people in
there at the same time.
What can hyperbaric oxygen therapy be used for?
There are 13 conditions for which hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been fully
recognised as an effective form of treatment, and these are:
embolisms (air or gas bubbles in the bloodstream, which may travel to the
brain or lungs)
carbon monoxide poisoning (from inhaling smoke or car exhaust)
gas gangrene
crush injury, compartment syndrome and other acute traumatic problems
where blood flow is reduced or cut off (e.g., frostbite)
decompression sickness (the bends)
enhancement of healing for wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers
exceptional blood loss (anaemia)
intracranial abscess (an accumulation of pus in the brain)
necrotising soft tissue infections (flesh-eating disease)
osteomyelitis (bone infection)
delayed radiation injury (e.g., radiation burns that develop after cancer
therapy)
skin grafts and flaps that are not healing well
thermal burns (e.g., from fire or electrical sources)
In addition, there have been claims that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be used to
treat a variety of other conditions as well, such as cancer, AIDS, stroke, multiple
sclerosis, cerebral palsy and migraines.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy an effective form of therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is described as being a well established medical
treatment and the above 13 conditions have been specifically claimed as treatable
by hyperbaric oxygen therapy by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.
However, as an effective form of therapy for the other conditions, there is no proof as
to its efficacy.
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Are there any known side effects with hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
If hyperbaric oxygen therapy is administered by professional medical personnel in a
safe chamber, risk should be minimal. However, some minor side effects are likely
as your body responds to the changes in pressure.
Having said that, there are a number of risks that you should be aware of before
undertaking treatment, even in a safe environment, such as damage to the inner ear,
problems with the eyes, seizures and lung problems.
Where can you find further information on hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society
Wikipedia entry on hyperbaric medicine
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HypnoBirthing
What is HypnoBirthing?
Hypnotherapy during childbirth and pregnancy is becoming increasingly popular as
mothers realise the benefits that this can bring to both themselves and their babies.
This use of hypnosis was first written about in the 1930s, although only since the
1980s has it started to rise in popularity and since this time, several different
techniques have evolved around the world. One such technique is called
HypnoBirthing, though others include Calmbirth, Hypnobabies and Natal
Hypnotherapy.
HypnoBirthing was developed by Dr Michelle Le Claire and Marie Mongan.
How does HypnoBirthing work?
HypnoBirthing is a therapy which teaches self hypnosis, as well as breathing and
relaxation techniques, described as a complete birth education programme.
Its main aims are to relieve you of the pain usually associated with childbirth, for
overcoming fears and anxieties, and being in control of the whole process.
HypnoBirthing can be learned by joining a class or by a one-to-one session with a
trained practitioner.
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What can HypnoBirthing be used for?

Obviously the principle use for the HypnoBirthing technique is for childbirth, though
the technique is also encouraged throughout pregnancy as this apparently has a
positive effect on the baby when it is born, such as sleeping and feeding better. The
benefits during the actual birth are for both the mother and the baby because the
birth will be far more natural, as pain relief should not be needed, and hence there is
less opportunity for stress and injury to the baby.
For the mother, this means that she is totally in control of the birth and able to
experience the whole process whilst being completely coherent.
Is HypnoBirthing an effective form of therapy?
There has been research into the benefits and effectiveness of HypnoBirthing, and
though the research was limited, it did conclude that there was less need for
analgesia during births where mothers had practiced hypnotherapy.
More research into the effectiveness is required, but initial findings do seem positive.
Are there any known side effects with HypnoBirthing?
There are no known side effects with HypnoBirthing.
Where can you find further information on HypnoBirthing?
HypnoBirthing UK
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Hypnotherapy
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a technique whereby the patient/client is put into a hypnotised state
for the purpose of helping them with a number of conditions.
The word hypnosis comes from the Greek word hypnos which means sleep, and
the modern-day technique was first developed by a Scottish physician, James Braid,
in the 1840s. There is, however, reference to sleep temples used in ancient times
by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans who used these places for healing, and it is
believed that they used trance-like rituals in these temples.
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James Braid though, re-examined earlier work of Franz Anton Mesmer, who, during
the 18th century, introduced the idea of animal magnetism, believing that mankind
was influenced by the magnetic fields generated by the planets. When Mesmer
realised that he could put people into a trance-like state, he believed that he too
must be magnetic and his ideas became quite popular. Braid, however, suggested
that a trance-like state could be induced simply by the power of suggestion.
Hypnotherapy is considered to be both an orthodox and an alternative form of
medicine depending on what is being treated with it. It has been a recognised form of
therapy since the 1890s when the British Medical Association commissioned an
evaluation into its effectiveness for treating certain conditions.
How does hypnotherapy work?
Hypnotherapy is described by the Hypnotherapy Association as a natural state of
heightened awareness, where you are able to open your mind to beneficial
suggestions and where you can make use of your imagination to help make positive
changes in your life.
Hence what this means is that you are more open to the power of suggestion and
are using your mind to control what your body feels and how your body reacts to
stimuli. In this way, hypnotherapy can be used for a huge variety of reasons.
What can hypnotherapy be used for?
The possibilities for use with hypnotherapy are almost endless, and there are various
differing forms of hypnosis. These include visualisation where you are told to
imagine a certain outcome, which is said to make it more likely to happen; guided
imagery (see the guided imagery entry); direct suggestion e.g. you feel safe, or
indirect suggestion; or post-hypnotic suggestion when you are given a suggestion
to carry out after the hypnosis has ended.
Hypnotherapy has been shown to be effective for use in controlling and relief of pain,
including for childbirth (see the entry for HypnoBirthing), for reducing anxiety and
stress, for treating insomnia, for psychosomatic illnesses such as tension
headaches, and for use in weight reduction programmes.
Hypnotherapy is also used in more alternative medicine circles for other reasons too.
To stop smoking is a very common reason for people to undergo hypnosis.
Is hypnotherapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been a good many studies commissioned into the effectiveness of
hypnotherapy for its use with various conditions, the majority of which have seen
very positive results. Hence hypnotherapy is recognised for its effectiveness in the
medical world.
However, studies into the use of hypnotherapy for addictions has not been quite so
positive, because although initial results may be good, there are, apparently, a high
number of relapses, suggesting that the effect is only temporary.
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Are there any known side effects with hypnotherapy?
There are no known side effects with hypnotherapy.
Where can you find further information on hypnotherapy?
Active Hypnotherapy
The Hypnotherapy Association
Hypnotherapy Info
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I
Immunosuppressive Therapy
What is immunosuppressive therapy?
Immunosuppressive therapy, or immunosuppression as it is also known, is a process
by which the efficiency of the immune system is reduced for medical reasons,
usually to stop the body from rejecting an organ transplant or transplant of some
other kind, or as a form of treatment for auto-immune diseases.This is in contrast to
immunotherapy which works to boost the efficacy of the immune system, and you
can read more about this in its own entry.
Immunosuppressive therapy is a relatively new form of treatment, which was first
investigated in the mid-1900s. Several immunosuppressants were identified during
this time, but were not popular because of the side effects induced. By 1970, a more
effective drug, called cyclosporine, brought advancements forward as this allowed
kidney transplants to take place between less well matched pairings of donor and
recipient.
How does immunosuppressive therapy work?
When a patient receives an organ transplant, that patients immune system can tell
that the organ has been replaced and does not belong to them. Hence it sees it as a
foreign body. When the immune system believes something is a foreign body it sees
it as a threat and attempts to destroy it. Immunosuppressive therapy is designed to
reduce the functioning of the immune system so that it does not have the capability
of recognising and destroying a newly replaced organ, giving the body less
opportunity for organ rejection.
Immunosuppressive therapy works in a similar way with autoimmune disease. When
a patient has autoimmune disease, their immune system essentially turns against
them. In healthy people, we have immune tolerance which basically means that our
immune system tolerates the presence of our tissues and does not attack them. But
when someone has an autoimmune disease, this tolerance level has been changed,
making it highly responsive.
Hence the immune system begins attacking tissues, cells or organs which should be
there. Immunosuppressive therapy works to reduce this heightened level of
tolerance.
What can immunosuppressive therapy be used for?
As already mentioned, immunosuppressive therapy is generally used for the
treatment of autoimmune diseases and as a measure to stop rejection after
placement of a transplanted organ.
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Is immunosuppressive therapy an effective form of therapy?

Previously radiation therapy (which you can read about in its own entry) was used to
reduce the effective functioning of the immune system. But immunosuppressive
therapy with the use of immunosuppressant drugs is now the preferred method, and
is recognised as being a very important element in organ transplantation.
Are there any known side effects with immunosuppressive therapy?
There are a number of possible side effects for patients on Immunosuppressive
therapy. These may include hypertension, hyperglycaemia, peptic ulcers, liver and
kidney injury and dyslipidemia. Immunosuppressive drugs may also have adverse
reactions with other medicines and prolonged usage can increase the risk of cancer.
In addition to the above possible side effects, there is also the more serious risk of
the development of additional diseases. The reason for this is because the
effectiveness of the immune system is being reduced. The means for usually fighting
off infection are not there, or are not as effective as usual. This opens the patient to
attack from opportunistic infection, i.e. infection which would not usually cause
disease in a healthy immune system, as well as the potential for attack from a whole
host of other diseases too.
Where can you find further information on immunosuppressive therapy?
About.com Series of articles on immunosuppressive drugs
Wikipedia entry on immunosuppressive drugs
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Immunotherapy
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a method of treatment which aims to stimulate or modulate the
immune system with the intention of preventing the spread of disease or for
therapeutic purposes. This is in contrast to immunosuppressive therapy which
attempts to suppress or reduce the actions of the immune system. You can read
more about immunosuppressive therapy in its own entry.
Immunotherapy can be used for several different conditions, though it is commonly
associated with cancers and allergies. This is a relatively new form of treatment
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(especially for the treatment of cancer) and research is ongoing to find better, more
productive forms of immunotherapy.
How does immunotherapy work?
The basic idea behind immunotherapy treatment is that it stimulates the immune
system. The way in which this works varies with what exactly is being treated. For
treatment of cancers, the immune system is being stimulated to attack the cancer by
rejecting and destroying tumours. This is done one of two ways either by
immunising the patient, so that their immune system can recognise the cancerous
cells, or by administering therapeutic antibodies which aid the immune system to
destroy the cancerous cells.
Immunotherapy for the treatment of allergies involves a programme of
hyposensitisation (also known as allergy desensitisation). In this treatment the
patient is given increasing doses of an allergen which has been highlighted as
problematic to them with the intention of training the immune system to tolerate, and
therefore not react so strongly to the allergen.
This works because when someone is allergic and comes into contact with an
allergen, it is the bodys reaction to the allergen which creates the discomfort
experienced. By training the immune system so that it is used to the allergen, the
reaction is therefore not experienced at all, or is at least reduced in severity.
What can immunotherapy be used for?
As already touched on, immunotherapy can be used as a treatment against varying
forms of cancer. It can also be used to stop or reduce allergic reactions, and is said
to be especially useful against pollen, dust and animal dander allergies as well as
being of some help to patients with asthma.
Is immunotherapy an effective form of therapy?
In terms of the effectiveness of immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer, it is still
relatively early days. Some success has been found but efficacy is often limited by
other factors. Despite this, further study is underway one particular study has
shown very positive results in the treatment of skin cancer, so there is hope for
Immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer.
The use of immunotherapy for allergens has been in existence for a little longer and
hence there has been more time to perfect this form of treatment. However,
Immunotherapy cannot necessarily be relied upon in the treatment of allergies and
research is still ongoing.
Are there any known side effects with immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy when used for the treatment of allergies can come with side effects.
Usually the common side effects are slight allergic reactions at the site of the
injection, such as itching, swelling and redness, but these are not normally serious.
More serious reactions can rarely occur, including anaphylaxis and hives, which
should be treated immediately.
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Where can you find further information on Immunotherapy?

Wikipedia entry on allergy immunotherapy (hyposensitisation)
Wikipedia entry on cancer immunotherapy
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Indian Head Massage

What is Indian head massage?
Indian head massage is a type of massage therapy which originated in India as part
of Indian traditional medicine, known as ayurvedic medicine, and is hence an
alternative form of medicine for the Western world.
Indian head massage is also referred to under the trademarked name Champissage
and was introduced to the Western world in the 1970s by Narendra Mehta. The
technique is based on ayurvedic principals that state that healing and health of the
body is a combination of balance of the mind, body and soul. Hence, it is believed
that overall health cannot be achieved unless these three essential parts are
properly balanced.
How does Indian head massage work?
Indian head massage works to release blocks in the bodys energy field because
when we have blocks, negative energy builds up and can result in many problems
including stress, tension and pain, as well as other common ailments. It does not just
work on the head, but includes the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp and face. A
session would normally last anywhere between 20 minutes and an hour.
What can Indian head massage be used for?
It is strongly believed that Indian head massage is very beneficial to people who are
suffering from hair loss or baldness because it is thought that if the energy channels
in and around the head are blocked this will cause hair loss, much in the same way
that stress is recognised as a potential cause for hair loss for many people in the
Western world. This is said to work particularly well when used in conjunction with
natural oils.
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As well as the benefits to our scalps and hair, Indian head massage is used to
relieve stress and tension, to increase mental clarity, reduce fatigue and anxiety and
to generally rejuvenate the receiver by encouraging improved circulation and
restoring joint movement.
Is Indian head massage an effective form of therapy?
Because Indian head massage is considered to be an alternative form of medicine
and therapy, testing into its effectiveness has not generally taken place in the
Western world. However, Indian head massage is gaining in popularity as people
who try out this form of massage therapy are seeing for themselves the benefits it
can bring, whether or not you believe in the principles behind it.
Are there any known side effects with Indian head massage?
There are no known side effects with Indian head massage therapy.
Where can you find further information on Indian head massage?
Massage Therapy UK
Indian Champissage
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Information Therapy
What is information therapy?
Information therapy is not a type of therapy in the healing sense of the word, but it is
therapeutic in that it can be beneficial when used alongside health care.
Information therapy is exactly as it sounds the provision of information which is
given in a health care setting. The aim of the therapy is to ensure that the patient is
well informed as to the details of their condition, the treatment of that condition, and
the medication or procedures that might be used.
How does information therapy work?
Information therapy is essentially the same as a patient looking up information about
their condition and treatments for that condition on the internet, or at the library. But
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there is a fundamental difference the information provided is geared specifically to
that patient and is given to them by a healthcare professional, such as their doctor.
What this means is that the patient remains fully informed, and is given very specific
information rather than finding generic information on the internet or elsewhere. The
problem with generic information is that it is not always specific to their exact
condition and treatment regime, and can hence lead to confusion.
What can information therapy be used for?
Because information therapy is not itself a specific form of treatment, but is the
provision of information, there are no bounds as to what it can be used for.
Is information therapy an effective form of therapy?
Again, because information therapy is not itself an actual form of treatment, its
effectiveness cannot be judged as such. However, it is recognised that the provision
of information to patients is a very important part of any treatment plan because it
ensures that the patient is fully aware of what is wrong with them and how it is going
to be treated. To a certain extent this should then serve to relax the patient because
they will know what to expect rather than reading generic information about a
condition and potentially panicking about it.
Are there any known side effects with information therapy?
There are no known side effects with information therapy.
Where can you find further information on information therapy?
Center For Information Therapy
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Infra-red Therapy
What is infra-red therapy?
Infra-red therapy may refer to one of two different types of therapy which use infrared light. The first is also known as laser therapy, or photobiomodulation, and uses
low level, or near, infra-red as a form of chemotherapy treatment. This is an
emerging field, and is becoming recognised as potentially important in the medical
world. You can read more about laser therapy in its own entry.
The second type of infra-red therapy is a more alternative form of medicine that may
be used complementary to conventional medicine. This therapy is also known as
infrared deep heat therapy and as infrared sauna therapy. As the second name
suggests, it makes use of an infra-red sauna for treatment purposes.
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There are a number of conditions which are purportedly eased or cured through
infra-red therapy, and it is this form of therapy which shall be discussed in more
detail here.
How does infra-red therapy work?
Infra-red therapy uses far infrared heat. This is a form of energy which can heat
objects and humans directly rather than heating the air around and in between them.
Infra-red therapy will usually take place within a specially built sauna. These saunas
are not like conventional ones which produce steam to heat the air within the sauna,
but they radiate infrared heat which is able to penetrate the body directly. The
saunas may be known under several different names, but all apply to the same
concept infrared saunas, far infrared saunas, far infrared therapy cabins and
infrared whole body deep heat therapy cabins are the most commonly used terms.
Heat has long been recognised as an effective form of therapy for numerous
conditions, and hence by directly penetrating the body, infra-red therapy can be far
more effective than a conventional sauna, and in fact is usually considered to be
safer (see below).
What can infra-red therapy be used for?
Infra-red therapy produces a form of deep heat therapy which is able to penetrate
and warm the body. When the body is warmed there are a number of conditions
which can be improved and eased. The most common of these is general pain relief
as deep heat is said to warm aching muscles and joints, such as those associated
with back, neck and shoulder problems, and is also said to be good for improving
circulation.
As the body becomes hotter there are also a number of other benefits that may be
achieved. The body sweats in an effort to cool down, and as this happens the skin
and body can be detoxified and purified. This in turn may lead to other advantages
such as cellulite and general weight loss.
Is infra-red therapy an effective form of therapy?
Currently, infra-red therapy is more recognised as an alternative form of treatment
and one which can be used alongside more conventional ones. There has been little
scientific study into the real health benefits of this form of therapy, yet indications
would suggest that it is effective when considering how frequently conventional
saunas are used for health benefits.
As there are very few dangers with infra-red therapy, it is really the sort of alternative
treatment which may be worth trying for yourself to see whether it does work for you.
Are there any known side effects with infra-red therapy?
Infra-red therapy is reported to be a very safe form of therapeutic treatment. Unlike
the UV rays which our bodies are subjected to from the sun, infrared heat is perfectly
harmless. This is in fact the same technology which is used to keep premature
babies warm, for example.
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Because the heat is able to penetrate the body, infra-red therapy can be considered
to be safer than a conventional sauna. A conventional sauna heats the air which
then comes into contact with the skin. This in turn means that the whole body is
being subjected to very high temperatures, which in reality are not good for us.
Infrared saunas, in contrast, heat the body from the inside and are hence far more
effective.
Where can you find further information on infra-red therapy?
Creighton University School of Medicine Alternative medicine pages on infra-red
sauna therapy
Aetna Bulletin on infrared therapy
Inner Health UK company providing infrared deep heat therapy
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Interpersonal Psychotherapy
What is interpersonal psychotherapy?
Interpersonal psychotherapy is a brief (as in time-limited) psychotherapy which was
developed as an out-patient treatment for adults with moderate or severe, nondelusional clinical depression.
There is said to be no theoretical basis for the origin of the therapy. The current
framework was developed in the 1980s by Gerald Klerman and Myrna Weissman in
the US to be used as a placebo in psychotherapy research. However, it was
discovered that interpersonal psychotherapy was actually quite effective itself and
became a recognised form of psychotherapy.
Since being developed for adults with clinical depression, the technique has also
been modified for use with adolescents and with older adults, as well as for a
number of other conditions too.
How does interpersonal psychotherapy therapy work?
Interpersonal psychotherapy works on the belief that psychological problems which
we experience are because of communication problems which have been developed
due to attachment styles. This follows from the belief by many attachment theorists
that loss and irregular attachments form the framework of human psychopathology,
which interpersonal psychotherapy indirectly addresses.
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Interpersonal psychotherapy will usually run for between 12 and 16 sessions of an
hour each, which would occur once a week.
What can interpersonal psychotherapy therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, interpersonal psychotherapy was initially developed to treat
adults with clinical depression, but has now been modified to work with a number of
other conditions too.
These include post-partum depression, bipolar disorder, bulimia nervosa, substance
misuse, somatisation and couples counselling.
Is interpersonal psychotherapy therapy an effective form of therapy?
Interpersonal psychotherapy has been shown to be a successful form of therapy in
the treatment of depression. For the treatment of bulimia nervosa, the results
showed promise.
Also, preliminary findings for interpersonal psychotherapy being effective for treating
other conditions, including adolescent depression, post-natal depression, bipolar
disorder and dysthymic disorder were good.
Further studies are under way to discover whether interpersonal psychotherapy
would be an effective form of therapy for a number of other conditions too.
Are there any known side effects with interpersonal psychotherapy therapy?
There are no known side effects with interpersonal psychotherapy.
Where can you find further information on interpersonal psychotherapy
therapy?
International Society for Interpersonal Psychotherapy
UK Interpersonal Psychotherapy
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Iridology
What is iridology?
Iridology, also known as iridodiagnosis, is an alternative medicine which works on
the belief that our eyes are our windows to our whole bodys health and that by
studying the eyes, practitioners can determine information about our health.
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Rather than being a method of treatment, Iridology seeks to make the client aware of
illnesses and problems that they may be susceptible to.The principle behind iridology
was first described in a work published in 1665, though this was not really developed
until the 19th century by a Hungarian physician, named Ignaz von Peczely.
It is believed that he linked two occurrences of similar streaks in the eyes of an owl
and a patient who had both suffered broken legs, and hence thought that this was a
sign of the physical condition.
How does iridology work?
Using equipment to examine the eye, such as a magnifying glass, cameras and
torches, the different elements of the eye are studied and compared to an iris chart.
The iris chart shows the iris divided into about 80 to 90 different zones and each
zone corresponds to a part of the body.
By examining the iris it is believed that changes in other bodily tissues will be
highlighted in the iris because the nerve fibres here respond to these changes.
Because iridology is not actually a therapy in the therapeutical sense of the word, i.e.
it does not aim to cure or ease illness, the idea is that by studying the iris, the
practitioner can inform the client what diseases or problems they are most likely to
encounter in their lives. Therefore iridology is more a counteractive measure.
What can iridology be used for?
As mentioned above, iridology aims to inform and not cure hence the diversity of
iridology is limited only to what the iris charts can tell the practitioner.
Is iridology therapy an effective form of therapy?
Iridology is not recognised as being an effective form of therapy, because it is not
accepted by the medical world. Any studies which have taken place have not been
able to prove its efficacy and clinical data is actually unable to support the correlation
between the iris and the rest of the body. Iridology is therefore considered to be a
pseudoscience.
Are there any known side effects with iridology?
There are no known side effects with iridology.
Where can you find further information on iridology?
Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists
The Skeptics' Dictionary Iridology
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Isopathy
What is isopathy?
Isopathy therapy is a therapy which grew from homeopathy and hence has similar
principles. But whilst homeopathy treats like for like, isopathy therapy treats the
patient with the actual disease or things that are a product of the disease. However,
many so-called vaccines used in homeopathy are actually a form of isopathy
anyway.
Isopathy therapy was developed by Dr. Johann Joseph Wilhelm Lux in 1823. He
believed that by giving a product of the disease, known as a nosode, you could cure
the disease.
Isopathy therapy is still practiced by some today and the isopathic principles are
quite commonly used in the treatment of allergies.
How does isopathy work?
Isopathy therapy is really a more basic form of homeopathy. This is because, where
homeopathy works by having to think about something which would produce the
same effects in the body as the illness it is suffering from, isopathy therapy identifies
the illness and then treats you with a diluted form of it.
What can isopathy be used for?
It is believed that the uses of isopathy therapy are endless, seeing as you are
treating a disease with a disease essentially. Therefore, if the disease can be
recognised and you have access to the substances required, anything could be
treated.
The difficulty, and hence restriction as to what can be treated, does lie in the fact that
substances may not be easy to come by. So although the disease may be identified
you may not have the materials which relate to it.
Is isopathy an effective form of therapy?
Despite the fact that homeopathy is highly regarded as pseudoscience, there is
actually some sense in the use of the isopathy therapy principles.
Whilst isopathy therapy may not be recognised as something most people would be
happy to try out on a regular basis, the principles are actually widely used in
conventional medicine. In vaccinations for example, usually there is a small dose of
the actual disease that the vaccine is being given to protect against. And also in the
treatment of allergies, isopathic principles are used by giving the patient a little of
what it is they are allergic to, in order to desensitise them.
However, the use of isopathic therapy as an effective alternative medicine is not
proved and the same arguments regarding the effectiveness of homeopathy apply
here too.
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Are there any known side effects with isopathy?
The only side effects with isopathy therapy would be the usual side effects of the
illness you are trying to cure.
Where can you find further information on isopathy?
There is very little information available on isopathy therapy as a single entity,
because most material is regarding homeopathy in general, which merely makes
mention to isopathy therapy as a spin-off. However, you can read more about how
isopathic principles work in the treatment of allergies in the website below.
British Institute for Allergy and Environmental Therapy
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IV Therapy
What is IV therapy?
IV therapy is also known as intravenous therapy, and is the process whereby a liquid
substance is supplied directly into the vein, as the name intravenous means within
a vein. It is a commonly used practice in modern and conventional medicine today in
hospitals and clinics, though it is also becoming more commonly used at home too
by people who need to self-administer drugs.
How does IV therapy work?
IV therapy is the fastest and most efficient way to administer fluids and medication to
the body because it is administered directly into the vein and hence directly into the
bloodstream. IV therapy can be given intermittently, or continuously, in which case it
is called an intravenous drip.
There are various methods in use the needle and syringe is the simplest method,
though it is only capable of giving one dose of medication at a time. Hence if more
doses are required later, the vein needs to be located again for the needle to go into.
Peripheral IV lines are the most commonly used in hospitals because of their ease
for administering drugs. Usually the arm or hand is used for insertion of a short
catheter. This then has a hub which can be connected to a syringe or an infusion
line.
Central IV lines, in contrast to peripheral ones, are inserted into a large vein,
sometimes within the right atrium of the heart. The advantage of this is that
medications can reach the heart immediately.
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Central IV lines include: peripherally inserted central catheter, central venous lines
and implantable ports.
What can IV therapy be used for?
IV therapy can be used to administer a large variety of drugs and substances and is
the only option available for performing blood transfusions.
Is IV therapy an effective form of therapy?
IV therapy is an effective and very important form of therapy in the majority of
medical practices today.
Are there any known side effects with IV therapy?
There are certain risks with IV therapy, though when administered by trained
personnel and in a medical setting the risk should be minimal.
Risks include: infection, phlebitis, fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, embolism
and extravasation.
Where can you find further information on IV therapy?
Wikipedia entry on IV Therapy
IV Therapy.net
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158
J
Jin Shin Do
What is Jin Shin Do?
Jin Shin Do, meaning The Way of the Compassionate Spirit, is a form of therapeutic
massage developed as a combination of several ancient and modern theories and
practices, and which is described as Bodymind Acupressure.
Jin Shin Do was developed by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden, a psychotherapist, drawing
from the concepts of Japanese acupressure, Chinese acupuncture, Taoist
philosophy, Reichian segmental theory and Ericksonian psychotherapy.
Jin Shin Do is becoming used around the world and there is a Jin Shin Do
certification programme available for people who wish to train as practitioners of this
therapy.
How does Jin Shin Do work?
Jin Shin Do works on the principle that our wellbeing is influenced by our bodys
energy field, called Qi, and that imbalances in the Qi caused by blockages in the
channels, or meridians, need to be released. Jin Shin Do uses a number of
identified points around the body which are associated with common physical
problems, much like the acupoints used in acupressure and similar therapies.
Clients are fully clothed for the massage, which is performed using gentle, yet deep,
finger pressure on the appropriate points, and this is said to release armouring or
chronic tension and to balance the Qi.
In addition, the use of spoken body focusing techniques assists the process and
leaves the client in a trance-like state of deep relaxation.
What can Jin Shin Do be used for?
As with most forms of therapeutic massage, Jin Shin Do releases muscle tension
and can relieve associated pain, plus the pain and inconvenience of other conditions,
such as headaches, backaches, insomnia, anxiety and allergies, amongst other
things.
Is Jin Shin Do an effective form of therapy?
Jin Shin Do is recognised as a major form of Asian Bodywork Therapy by the
American Organisation for Bodywork Therapies of Asia, in addition to several other
organisations too.
However, Jin Shin Do is an alternative form of therapy and studies into its efficacy
have not taken place, hence it is difficult to say whether or not it is actually an
effective form of massage therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with Jin Shin Do?
There are no known side effects with Jin Shin Do, though there are a couple of
sensible precautions that should be taken, including not using certain points during
pregnancy. If you have Jin Shin Do performed by a qualified practitioner who knows
the contraindications, there should be no risk of side effects.
Where can you find further information on Jin Shin Do?
Jin Shin Do Foundation
Jin Shin Do in the UK
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Jin Shin Jyutsu

What is Jin Shin Jyutsu?
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient Japanese healing technique that encourages the
bodys natural healing process through a combination of deep breathing and
touching designated parts of the body, known as safety energy locks.
Although Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient practice, its benefits were only truly
discovered in the early 1900s when a Japanese man, named Master Jiro Murai,
researched the technique and cured himself of a life-threatening illness. Murai then
taught the techniques to others, including Mary Burmeister who took her knowledge
of the therapy to the United States in the early 1960s. Since then, Jin Shin Jyutsu
has increased in popularity and is now practised around the world.
How does Jin Shin Jyutsu work?
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an energy based healing technique which seeks to bring balance
to the bodys energies and, in turn, allow the body to administer its own healing
capabilities.
There are 26 safety energy locks across the body through which our energy
pathways run. These are similar to the acupoints used in various alternative
medicine techniques, such as acupuncture. When a pathway becomes blocked the
energy flow gets disrupted causing problems with the mind, body and spirit.
Energy flows are re-established by holding combinations of the safety energy locks
on the body, and thereby enabling the body to begin to heal itself. The therapy is
conducted fully clothed and does not require any sort of body manipulation, pressure
or massage and can be administered by a trained therapist or as a self-help.
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What can Jin Shin Jyutsu be used for?
Jin Shin Jyutsu is used as a tool to enact healing in the body and for relaxation and
rejuvenation of the mind, body and spirit. It can be used to complement other forms
of therapy and is said to be useful for aiding healing of specific conditions too.
Is Jin Shin Jyutsu an effective form of therapy?
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an alternative medicine and there has been little medical
investigation into its effectiveness, therefore it is difficult to say whether or not it is
actually an effective form of therapy. However, this is based on an ancient technique
and Jin Shin Jyutsu is gaining in popularity around the world which would tend to
suggest that there is some efficacy in its healing techniques.
Are there any known side effects with Jin Shin Jyutsu?
There are no known side effects with Jin Shin Jyutsu.
Where can you find further information on Jin Shin Jyutsu?
Jin Shin Jyutsu Inc
Jin Shin Jyutsu UK Activities
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Journaling Therapy
What is journaling therapy?
Journaling is a form of writing therapy, also known as therapeutic writing of which
there are several types. Journaling is the oldest form of writing therapy, known as an
expressive therapy and is a self-help technique.
Other writing therapies include distance therapies which have become extremely
popular in the age of the internet, and one form has actually become known as
internet writing therapy. This involves writing something then sending it to the
therapist. This form of therapy is beneficial because often both parties remain
anonymous, so it encourages freer divulgence of feelings.
Journaling, on the other hand, does not need or use the involvement of a therapist,
so has many benefits because of this.
How does journaling therapy work?
Journaling therapy is a very straightforward and easy to use form of self-help, which
basically involves keeping a personal journal. The journal is not like a daily diary
which records what you have done each day, but is a place for recording feelings
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and meaningful thoughts. For example, you can express things on paper that might
have been keeping you awake at night because they were playing around in your
head.
In other words, it is believed, though not entirely understood, that by writing down our
thoughts we can stop them spinning around in our heads, as this essentially opens a
door and lets the thoughts out.
What can journaling therapy be used for?
Journaling therapy can be used by anyone and everyone without fear of feeling the
embarrassment that would sometimes accompany a visit to a therapist. There are
many other benefits too by keeping your journal or a note book with you, you can
write thoughts down wherever you are, which can prove beneficial if you have a
sudden attack of emotions.
Journaling therapy is also accessible to everyone because it does not cost anything.
It is a free form of therapy because no therapist is involved. All you need to spend
money on is a book to write in.
Journaling therapy is good for people who may find it difficult to otherwise
communicate their feelings and who let emotions and thoughts well up inside them,
possibly leading to other problems such as stress, depression and anxiety.
Is journaling therapy an effective form of therapy?
Journaling therapy is thought to be an effective form of therapy which is available to
the masses. Research into the benefits of writing therapy in general has proved that
writing can be a very beneficial form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with journaling therapy?
There are no known side effects with journaling therapy.
Where can you find further information on journaling therapy?
Wikipedia entry on writing therapy
Writing4Healing website based on internet writing therapy
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Juice Therapy
What is juice therapy?
Juice therapy is sometimes also referred to as raw juice therapy or as juice fasting,
and as the latter name suggests it works by fasting from general foods and going on
a diet of just juices.
Fasting has been used since ancient times as a form of cleansing the body and the
soul, and this is essentially what juice therapy is used for, though instead of
completely fasting, you drink fresh fruit and vegetable juices only.
How does juice therapy work?
Juice therapy is a kind of detox diet, detoxifying the body of impurities, though it is
also used for its medicinal properties too.
By consuming just a liquid diet our digestive system does not have to do so much
work. And because the juice only contains digestible carbohydrates, they are
digested very quickly, using only a small amount of our bodys energy.
Between 32 and 64 ounces of juice is drunk per day, though it is sipped gradually.
Typically the fruits and vegetables used will include celery, cabbage, apple,
cranberry, carrot and spinach amongst others, and it is recommended that they are
organically grown. Often a number of glasses of warm filtered water will be
recommended as well.
What can juice therapy be used for?
Juice therapy may be used as a general detox to cleanse the body. Some people
prefer to go on regular juice therapy diets a couple of times a year, to keep in optimal
health.
In addition, juice therapy may be used prior to an operation or procedure, and as a
way of losing weight quickly, though is not recommended as a long-term weight
control method. Some people use juice therapy as an aid to stop smoking or for
caffeine addiction, whilst others believe juice therapy can be used for healing more
serious conditions such as cancer, pain, depression, arthritis, autoimmune diseases
and various other diseases which are reported to be incurable.
Is juice therapy an effective form of therapy?
For use as a detox, juice therapy is apparently an effective form of therapy for ridding
the body of toxins, from the organs and the skin for example.
There have been few studies into the effectiveness of juice therapy. But those which
have been conducted have concluded that there are benefits to this form of therapy.
However there is no proof that juice therapy is an effective form of treatment for such
diseases as cancer.
Are there any known side effects with juice therapy?
There are a number of precautions and possible side effects with juice therapy,
though these are not major side effects. Users should be careful to make sure that
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they are also taking supplements, so that their body is not losing out on vitamins and
nutrients needed which are not supplied within the juice. Also, citric juices and those
which are highly acidic are not recommended because they can upset the bodys
natural pH balance and will cause much acidity.
It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting juice therapy and sufferers of
diabetes may find that the illness is exacerbated by juice therapy.
Where can you find further information on juice therapy?
TherapyNet
Wikipedia entry on juice fasting
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164
K
Kinesiology
What is Kinesiology?
Kinesiology therapy is also known as Applied Kinesiology and Health Kinesiology
and is an alternative medicine technique which tests the strength of a patients
muscles in order to make diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
Kinesiology is a blend of several different techniques and theories including
traditional Chinese medicine and the use of acupuncture meridians around the body.
It was developed by George Goodheart, an American chiropractor, in 1964.
How does Kinesiology work?
Kinesiology therapy is based on the principle that for every organ illness in the body,
there is a corresponding muscle. Hence by testing muscles, it is possible to diagnose
illnesses, and also to build a picture of what is happening with the bodys meridian
(or energy) system as a whole.
Testing of the muscles is performed by a practitioner. A common method is to have
the patient resist, using just the muscle in question, the force applied by the
practitioner. Depending on the response, the practitioner is able to make
determinations.
Once problems have been determined, Kinesiology also aims to provide a totally
holistic form of therapy by establishing the main problem, and then attempting to
realign the balance of the meridians. This way, overall wellbeing is achieved by using
various different healing techniques, depending on the individual skills of the
practitioner concerned. Treatment may also include being given advice on nutrition
and other aspects which affect our health.
What can Kinesiology be used for?
It is said that you do not have to be ill to benefit from Kinesiology therapy as it can
help to maintain a healthy balance. However, there are a number of conditions which
are reported to have benefited from Kinesiology therapy. These include: allergies,
run-down immune systems, candida, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, fatigue, pain
and sleeping problems.
Is Kinesiology an effective form of therapy?
There have been some studies conducted into the effectiveness of Kinesiology
therapy, though generally the results reported on pro- Kinesiology websites have
actually been more concerned with muscle testing in general and not specific to
Kinesiology. In addition, many studies performed have failed to show clinical
efficacy.
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Criticisms of Kinesiology therapy include the fact that the muscle testing, which
forms the basis of the therapy, is very subjective as it relies simply on the
practitioners opinion.
The medical world does not agree with the correlation between muscles and
illnesses, and hence Kinesiology therapy is generally regarded as pseudoscience.
Are there any known side effects with Kinesiology?
There are no direct side effects known with the use of Kinesiology therapy.
Where can you find further information on Kinesiology?
Websites pro-Kinesiology:
International College of Applied Kinesiology
Kinesiology Federation
Websites Against Kinesiology:
NCAHF National Council Against Health Fraud
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Kirlian Photography
What is Kirlian Photography?
Kirlian Photography is the name given to the process by which an image is produced
when an object comes into contact with high-voltage resulting in an image of the
object, as well as an aura-like corona surrounding the object.
This phenomenon was discovered accidentally by Semyon Kirlian in 1939, when an
object left on the photographic plate was subjected to high voltage. Kirlian believed
that the resulting image was in fact the aura, or energy field, of the object. This was
based on the assumption that everything apparently has an energy field around it,
including humans.
The basis of Kirlian Photography as a therapy was developed by a parapsychologist,
Thelma Moss, who wrote about Kirlian Photography being a medical diagnostic tool
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in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Moss believed that because the human energy
field could be captured in a photograph, it could be analysed for weaknesses and
emotional, mental and physical problems could be diagnosed.
How does Kirlian Photography work?
Kirlian believed that the corona effect produced was undeniable proof that everything
has an aura. Moss took her work further by suggesting that if this then was an aura,
the aura could be examined for weaknesses and the colours displayed. She then
used it to make a diagnosis of a persons health.
The exact method for making determinations seems sketchy. But in general it is
believed that a weaker aura would indicate physical and psychological problems.
What can Kirlian Photography be used for?
Aside from being used to produce interesting images, Kirlian Photography is used to
determine a persons health, but is not used as any sort of treatment.
The idea is that with knowledge of problems, a patient can go and get treatment
elsewhere.
Sometimes however, a Kirlian Photographer will also be skilled in the way of
alternative medicines and may hence make suggestions as to possible forms of
treatment.
Is Kirlian Photography an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, Kirlian Photography is not a therapy in the sense of the word
that it treats an illness, but is used to detect them.
However, the theory behind Kirlian Photography is that the image is an aura, or
energy field.
But, in fact, it has been scientifically proven that the corona effect is actually just the
reaction of moisture (which is electrically conductive), and that different colours are
just as a result of the effects on the dye contained within the film.
Added to this are several other environmental variables, such as changes in
barometric pressure, temperature and changes in voltage.
The idea that Kirlian Photography shows auras is highly disputed, and is dismissed
by the medical and scientific world.
Are there any known side effects with Kirlian Photography?
There are no known side effects with Kirlian Photography.
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Where can you find further information on Kirlian Photography?

Pro- Kirlian Photography
Complementary Medical Association
New Human
Against Kirlian Photography
The Skeptics Dictionary
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Korean Hand Acupuncture

What is Korean Hand Acupuncture?
Korean Hand Acupuncture (also called Koryo Hand Therapy, Koryo Sooji Chim or
just KHT) is similar in many ways to the more familiar general acupuncture of
traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), except that Korean hand acupuncture is
performed on only the hand and not all over the body.
In contrast to TCM acupuncture, which has been practised for thousands of years,
Korean Hand Acupuncture was only developed in 1971 by Dr Yu Tao Woo. It is
based on the principle that the hand is a micro system version of the whole body and
hence all the acupuncture points and meridians on the body can also be found
represented on the hand.
How does Korean Hand Acupuncture work?
Korean Hand Acupuncture works in the same way as whole body acupuncture. By
stimulating the acupuncture points where energies are believed to be stuck and
hence interfering with the bodys natural flow of energy and balance of health.
Stimulation allows the energy to flow freely again.
Because Korean Hand Acupuncture only uses the hand, it is sometimes preferred as
a treatment over whole body forms of acupuncture, because of the ease of use and
perhaps because of safety issues.
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What can Korean Hand Acupuncture be used for?

As with whole body acupuncture, Korean Hand Acupuncture is used in the Western
world as a form of alternative and complementary therapy to treat a number of
conditions.
These conditions are wide and varied, and include: colds and flu, cough, bronchitis,
tonsillitis, high blood pressure, skin conditions, stomach ache, indigestion, nausea,
wind, constipation, diarrhoea and pre-menstrual tension, to name a few.
Korean Hand Acupuncture can be used on just about everybody because it is easy
to administer and is virtually painless, making it particularly good for children.
Is Korean Hand Acupuncture an effective form of therapy?
There has not been a great deal of study into the effectiveness of Korean Hand
Acupuncture, but what study there has been has reported positive results.
As Korean Hand Acupuncture is based upon the same principles as whole body
acupuncture, it should be safe to assume that this should be just as effective as
whole body acupuncture.
Are there any known side effects with Korean Hand Acupuncture?
There are no known side effects with Korean Hand Acupuncture. And in certain ways
it is considered to be even safer than whole body acupuncture, because needle
insertion takes place only within the hand. This minimises the potential for improperly
inserted needles and the risks involved with this.
Where can you find further information on Korean Hand Acupuncture?
Koryo Hand Therapy
Koryo Hand Therapy Systems
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169
L
Laser Therapy
What is laser therapy?
Laser therapy is also known by several other names, the most correct of which is
now low level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation. But other names include
cold laser therapy, laser bio stimulation and phototherapy.
Laser therapy began to be considered for its benefits very shortly after the first
working laser was invented in 1967. Endre Mester, of Semmelweis University in
Hungary, started experimenting with it on skin cancer and immediately received
some interesting results. He discovered that by applying the laser to the backs of
mice whose hair had been shaved off, the hair grew back much more quickly with
the laser treated mice than it did with the untreated group.
Laser therapy is now being used in an increasing number of situations, particularly
for its benefits in stimulating or inhibiting cellular functions. It is also emerging as an
alternative medicine for treating addictions, for example in stopping smoking and for
weight loss.
How does laser therapy work?
The exact way in which laser therapy works is still being investigated, though it is
known that by using certain combinations of wavelengths and laser intensities it can
aid tissue regeneration, decrease inflammation, relieve pain and boost the immune
system.
The reaction which takes place is whats known as photochemical, as opposed to
the use of heat, which might be expected with a laser.
Because this is still a relatively new process, there is a certain amount of debate as
to how laser therapy should be performed in order to get the best results, as there
are a number of variables to consider.
What can laser therapy be used for?
Clinically, there are a number of uses for laser therapy, including wound healing and
nerve regeneration. It is also said to increase the healing speed of fractures as well
as muscular and soft-tissue injuries, for chronic pain and possibly for stopping viral
and bacterial infections.
In the alternative medicine world, laser therapy is being offered for a number of other
treatments as well, including for stopping smoking, diet control, acne, arthritis,
migraines, asthma, stress, insomnia, seasonal affective disorder and for menopausal
problems.
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Is laser therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has not as yet been a great deal of study into the effectiveness of laser
therapy, though it is recognised for its effectiveness in the medical world for treating
some of the conditions mentioned above. Further testing is taking place and
although there have been some positive results in the treatment of acne using laser
therapy, its use for helping people to stop smoking and for weight control will no
doubt remain alternative.
Are there any known side effects with laser therapy?
If laser therapy is performed by somebody who is trained in its use, there should be
no chance of side effects. However, the use of dense filter spectacles is usually
recommended to avoid damage to the eyes.
Where can you find further information on laser therapy?
The Laser Exchange
World Association for Laser Therapy
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Life Coaching
What is life coaching?
Life coaching is a process by which clients are coached in order to be able to set
and reach goals in their lives, and although it may be considered a form of therapy,
coaches are not professionally trained as therapists or psychologists.
Life coaching is a practice which has become increasingly popular over the last few
years in particular. It has sprung from other areas of coaching, such as management
and executive coaching, which was usually the realm of big businesses.
However, a niche was seen and developed for giving the general public coaching
too, and this coaching can combine a whole host of issues in order to help clients set
and reach their goals.
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How does life coaching work?
Although various certificates are available in the industry, there is no official
regulatory standard for life coaching. This means that practically anyone can call
themselves a life coach and take on fee-paying clients. On top of the potential
obvious issues with this, it also means that life coaches can all have their own ways
of working, so its unlikely that any two methods practised by different life coaches
would be the same.
However, usually the ultimate goal of the life coach is roughly the same across the
board, and often they are said to offer life coaching in the following areas:
to achieve goals and ambitions

to become more organised
to improve communication skills
to change or advance a career
to improve health, fitness and wellbeing
to reduce stress levels
to increase self-esteem and confidence levels
to make a complete change in life direction
What can life coaching be used for?

Following on from the above points, life coaching helps people who need some
assistance in making decisions. Often clients find life coaching useful if they know
what they want but arent quite sure how to achieve it.
People who are generally a little unhappy in their lives can benefit from life coaching
as they are helped to realise their goals and then shown ways of achieving those
goals.
But life coaching is also said to be beneficial for many other reasons too, such as
losing weight, becoming more motivated and generally putting a little order into your
life.
Is life coaching an effective form of therapy?
Sceptics argue that if a client needs a little friendly advice, why not go to a friend?
However, the benefit with life coaching is that clients are offered an impartial view on
life and unbiased advice, which can sometimes be difficult to get from friends or
family who are too close to you.
Life coaching is certainly gaining in popularity as more and more people want to take
control of their lives, and be able to enjoy life to the full.
Whether or not life coaching is actually an effective form of therapy is a contentious
issue. But at the end of the day, it seems to have worked for many people, so it is
probably worth trying if you think it would benefit you.
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Are there any known side effects with life coaching?
There are no known side effects with life coaching.
Where can you find further information on life coaching?
International Coach Federation
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Light Therapy
What is light therapy?
Light therapy may also be known as phototherapy, and it is a process by which a
person is exposed to different kinds of light to treat a variety of disorders or
problems.
The type of lights and the amount of time exposure is needed varies upon what
condition the light therapy is being used for, though lights used include lasers, full
spectrum lights, LEDs and fluorescent lights.
Light therapy was developed as a treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD),
but it is recently becoming more popular for treating other conditions too, such as for
jet lag and for sleeping problems.
How does light therapy work?
The way in which light therapy works does depend on the type of light being used
and which disorder is being treated.
For seasonal affective disorder the best treatment is with full sunlight, though on
days when this isnt possible, products such as light boxes can be used to provide a
very high intensity of artificial sunlight. This would be switched on at certain times of
the day and the client would sit or stand in close proximity to it.
Having to stay within one area for the effect of a light box is not always convenient,
so an alternative is a light visor because you can move around with this.
Dawn simulation lights are another method of light therapy and these are particularly
useful for people with delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS), whilst blue/red light
treatment is now being used to treat acne.
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What can light therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, there are a variety of conditions which can be treated with light
therapy.
The most recognised of these is for SAD, though it has also been discovered
recently that light therapy can also be used to treat non-seasonal depression too.
Treatment of acne, for the healing of wounds and neuropathy as well as skin
disorders such as eczema and psoriasis can also be treated.
In addition, light therapy is commonly used for tanning purposes too and is becoming
increasingly popular for treating the symptoms of jet lag.
Is light therapy an effective form of therapy?
Studies have shown that light therapy is an effective form of therapy for the
treatment of a number of conditions, including SAD, non-seasonal depression, DSPS
and acne.
Light therapy is considered to be a viable treatment for jet lag and has shown
benefits for skin conditions.
Are there any known side effects with light therapy?
There are some side effects with light therapy as well as the possibility for longerterm effects too.
Side effects when light therapy is used for sleep disorders include feeling jumpy and
jittery, as well as having headaches and nausea.
Longer term side effects include the possibility of progressive damage to the skin via
ultraviolet light. However, the majority of products available do not emit ultraviolet
light and therefore should be considered to be safe.
Light therapy may also trigger behavioural problems such as a manic state or
anxiety, though these can usually be easily treated when light therapy is used under
supervision of a clinician.
Where can you find further information on light therapy?
The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association
Lumie company specialising in light therapy
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174
Light Touch Therapy

What is light touch therapy?
Light touch therapy is not a therapy in itself, but is a term used to describe a number
of other therapies which all come under the term light touch.
Therapies included as light touch therapy include the Bowen technique, cranio-sacral
therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Kinesiology, Indian head massage,
polarity therapy, reflexology, Reiki and Therapeutic Touch.
How does light touch therapy work?
The way in which light touch therapy works really depends on exactly which form of
therapy is being used. As stated above, there are various therapies which come
under the classification of light touch therapy and these will all have their own unique
way of working.
The commonality between all of the therapies which are classed as light touch
therapy is that all techniques use a light touch rather than a heavy or forceful touch
in their practice. You can read about all of the individual therapies mentioned above
in their own entries. But basically speaking, these therapies use either the gentle
placing of hands on particular parts of the body, gentle tapping or gentle massage.
What can light touch therapy be used for?
Again, what light touch therapy can be used for will depend to a large extent on
which form of therapy is being used. Generally speaking these therapies are
considered to be alternative medicine practices and many of them will focus on the
mind, body and spirit as a whole, rather than just physical issues and will aim to treat
the bodys energy field. In addition, all therapies are non-invasive and involve little or
no manipulation of the body.
Is light touch therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, many of the therapies which are classed as light touch
therapies are considered to be alternative, and often there has been little or no
scientific study into the effectiveness of each therapy. However, please read each
individual entry for specific details.
Are there any known side effects with light touch therapy?
This will depend upon the type of light touch therapy which is being used.
Where can you find further information on light touch therapy?
The Association of Light Touch Therapists
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175
Live Blood Microscopy

What is live blood microscopy?
Live blood microscopy is also known by a few other names as well, such as live
blood analysis, or live blood cell analysis, and involves the study of live blood cells at
a high microscopic level usually within a dark field. This is a technique called dark
field microscopy, although there are a couple of other methods as well.
The aim of live blood microscopy is to examine the blood cells to make diagnosis
and predictions as to possible health issues.
Live blood microscopy is an alternative medicine technique which does not need to
be performed by a doctor or member of the health profession.
How does live blood microscopy work?
Live blood microscopy works by taking a drop of blood from the finger tip. Because it
is analysed immediately the blood remains live and can hence tell the practitioner a
lot more about the client than a specimen of dead blood does.
The blood is viewed under a high powered microscope and the image is projected to
either a large screen or monitor which is attached to the microscope, so that both
practitioner and client can view the blood.
It is said that analysis of the blood can determine such things as the state of the
clients immune system, vitamin and nutritional deficiencies, parasites, fungus, yeast,
cholesterol and allergies, and some practitioners also claim that it can be used to
detect the very early signs of cancer.
What can live blood microscopy be used for?
Live blood microscopy is not a preventative or therapeutic cure for any diseases, but
merely an option for the client to analyse the quality of their blood and therefore their
health.
It is used to detect issues so that the client can act on this information in order to
address these issues. Some practitioners may also provide a service of offering
nutritional guidance to the client, so that they can advise how the client should go
about making changes to their lifestyle in order to help or prevent illness.
Is live blood microscopy an effective form of therapy?
Live blood microscopy is described as being an unestablished diagnostic test. This
means that any diagnosis made is not based on an established theory of diagnosis
and hence the practitioners interpretation could be open to debate.
There have been no credible scientific studies into the effectiveness of live blood
microscopy, and for the most part, the process remains alternative and hence its
methods are debatable.
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Are there any known side effects with live blood microscopy?
There are no known side effects with live blood microscopy.
Where can you find further information on live blood microscopy?
World Health Center information on Live Blood Analysis
See My Cells UK Company offering live blood analysis services
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Logotherapy
What is logotherapy?
Logotherapy is a type of existential analysis psychotherapy, which contrary to that of
the likes of Freud and Adler, concentrates on the premise of will to meaning and
hence our ability to find meaning in everything we do and experience.
Logotherapy was developed by Austrian Viktor Frankl. Frankl was a neurologist and
psychiatrist who further developed his theory of logotherapy during his time in a
concentration camp.
Here, he discovered that humans have the ability to find meaning in all forms of
existence not only the good things in life, but also the most horrible, and that this
is what helped him and many others to survive the Holocaust.
In the following years, Frankl published over 30 books. His most famous is titled (in
English) Mans Search for Meaning.
Logotherapy has also been further developed for uses beyond typical
psychotherapy. James Crumbaugh, for example, refined logotherapy so that it could
be used as a recover system for the treatment of alcoholism.
How does logotherapy work?
The essence of logotherapy is finding a reason to live and hence to go on and get
past the worst experiences in our lives.
This works in a psychotherapeutic setting, because often psychological problems
stem from an inability to cope with ones life, a feeling of being overwhelmed, and an
inability to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
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Logotherapy encourages patients to find meaning in their lives and hence to have
something to live for and look forward to.
This is found through the three main principles of logotherapy:
1. Life has meaning under all circumstances, even the worst imaginable situations.
2. As humans, our main motivation is to find meaning in life.
3. We have the freedom to discover what gives us, as individuals, meaning.
A therapist would work with a patient to attempt to guide them to find meaning in
their lives, through creativity (i.e. using our talents), experiencing (i.e. our interactions
with others and the world around us) and through a change in attitude (i.e. if we cant
change a situation, we should change our attitude towards that situation).
What can logotherapy be used for?
As logotherapy is a type of psychotherapy, there are a great number of psychological
conditions for which it can be used. In addition, logotherapy may be included as part
of the recovery process in the treatment of alcoholism.
It is also worth pointing out that Frankls logotherapy could be viewed as a
philosophy and a way of life, and could therefore be a useful basis for all humans
(not just those who are in need of therapy) to help us to appreciate and get the most
out of our lives.
Is logotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Logotherapy is a recognised school of psychotherapy and although information
would suggest it is an effective form of therapy, it is not as widely used as some
other psychotherapies.
Because of this fact, there is not readily available information as to just how effective
it is.
Are there any known side effects with logotherapy?
There are no known side effects with logotherapy.
Where can you find further information on logotherapy?
Viktor Frankl Institute What is Logotherapy and Existential Analysis?
Voidspace Introduction to Vicktor Frankls logotherapy
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Lymphatic Massage
What is lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic massage therapy is more correctly known as manual lymphatic drainage,
and it is a form of massage used both in the medical world and as a complementary
therapy.
Manual lymphatic drainage was developed by Dr Emil Vodder and his wife Dr Estrid
Vodder in the 1930s, when they discovered a link between the lymph system and
various conditions. Whilst treating patients with chronic sinusitis they noticed that the
patients were also suffering from swollen lymph nodes, so they set about
investigating the lymphatic system.
As a result of their studies, they developed a form of massage therapy, which they
introduced after four years of research in 1936.
How does lymphatic massage work?
Manual lymphatic drainage is a very gentle massage using light pressure in order to
unblock the lymph nodes and clear the body of excess fluids.
The lymphatic system is crucial for maintaining our bodys health and wellbeing
because this is what rids the body of many toxins and infections. When the lymph
nodes become congested they are unable to successfully excrete these things from
the body and hence the body feels the repercussions. These repercussions could
just be in the form of feeling tired and lethargic or they could lead to more serious
problems such as pain, swelling and eventually, tumours and cysts.
What can lymphatic massage be used for?
In addition to promoting general physical health, manual lymphatic drainage can be
used to treat several specific conditions including tiredness, sinus problems, catarrh,
fatty lumps, and effects of glandular fever, myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and
arthritic aches and pains. It is also said to be useful for dispersing cellulite.
In the medical world, manual lymphatic drainage is used for the treatment of lymph
oedema, which is localized fluid retention caused by blockages in the lymphatic
system.
Is lymphatic massage an effective form of therapy?
Manual lymphatic drainage is recognised as being important in the treatment of
lymph oedema and is hence an effective form of therapy for this condition.
There is not a great deal of evidence which supports the use of manual lymphatic
drainage for the other conditions mentioned above though. However, if any of these
conditions have arisen as a direct result of a blocked lymphatic system, then it would
be safe to assume that by unblocking the lymph nodes the condition can be assisted.
Are there any known side effects with lymphatic massage?
There are no known side effects with manual lymphatic drainage.
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Where can you find further information on lymphatic massage?
MLD UK
Dr Vodder School North America
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180
M
Magnet Therapy
What is magnet therapy?
Magnet therapy is also known by the terms magnetic therapy, magneto therapy and
magnotherapy and is an alternative and complementary medicine.
The use of magnets for medicinal purposes was considered back in the 1800s,
though no definitive studies were conducted and the principle largely fell by the
wayside. As with many other practises which are considered alternative, magnet
therapy has seen an increase in popularity over recent years due to the rise of the
internet and many peoples natural inclination to try self-help techniques.
There are studies being conducted around the world today to discover whether or
not there is any truth to claims made by followers of the practice. So until these can
prove otherwise, magnet therapy remains very much an alternative form of medicine.
How does magnet therapy work?
Magnet therapy obviously uses magnets in some form. These could be bracelets or
other jewellery, magnetic straps, magnetic blankets, magnetic mattresses, shoe
insoles and even magnetised water.
By having magnetic items placed around the various acupuncture points (as
specified by ancient medical practices) of the body it is believed that these can act
much in the same way as an acupuncture therapy would do, by helping the body to
rejuvenate cells and tissues.
Supporters of magnet therapy claim that because we are shielded so much from the
Earths magnetic field that this has a profound effect on our own magnetic field and
hence suggest that we need to re-introduce magnetism to our bodies.
What can magnet therapy be used for?
One of the chief uses of magnet therapy is said to be for relief from arthritis, as well
as other muscular, tissue and skeletal aches and pains.
There have been reports (on websites selling magnet therapy items) that this can be
used for far more serious conditions too, such as cancer, HIV and AIDS as well as
for curing arthritis and rheumatism. However these claims have been stopped in the
United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited any claims
that magnet therapy can be used to treat these, and other significant conditions.
Is magnet therapy an effective form of therapy?
In general, all research performed into the effectiveness of magnet therapy has
shown there to be no proof of its efficacy and the belief is that any positive results
that are experienced are merely the placebo effect.
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Are there any known side effects with magnet therapy?

There are no known side effects with magnet therapy.
Where can you find further information on magnet therapy?
There are a great many websites on the internet selling magnet therapy products.
Obviously the opinions stated on these websites as to the effectiveness of magnet
therapy will be biased. Therefore, here are some unbiased/or against opinions:
British Medical Journal editorial on magnet therapy
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Manual Therapy
What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy is a term used to describe a large range of different therapies which
are considered to be hands-on techniques and which usually involve manipulation
and mobilisation of tissues, muscles and joints.
Manual therapy as a whole is an ancient practice and is used in some way or other
by just about every culture throughout the world, though with obvious modifications
over time and over continents. It is an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine,
ayurvedic medicine and many alternative medicines.
Some of the different techniques considered to be called manual therapy include:
acupressure, Bowen technique, massage therapy, manual lymphatic discharge
(lymphatic massage therapy), myofacial release, rolfing, shiatsu and Tui Na.
How does manual therapy work?
How exactly manual therapy works will depend on the technique being used and
what is being treated. Generally speaking though, manual therapy uses the hands
directly (rather than a tool or implement) to apply manual force to treat the body, in
order to improve mobility through contact with the joints, connective tissues and
muscles.
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What can manual therapy be used for?

Depending on the specific type of manual therapy being used, there are dozens of
different conditions which can be treated this way.
Some direct examples include massage and the positive effects this can bring. But
there are also indirect uses for many of the therapies such as relieving stress, for
treatment of allergies, for emotional issues and for maintaining a healthy life-force
energy.
Is manual therapy an effective form of therapy?
The effectiveness of manual therapy does vary with which particular form of therapy
is being used. With the more conventional forms of massage which are practiced
regularly by qualified physiotherapists and the like, the techniques have usually been
proven as being effective, but the techniques which are considered more alternative
and New Age in their approach are questioned by the medical world.
Each of the types of manual therapy mentioned above have their own separate entry
where you can find out more about that particular form of therapy and whether or not
it is considered to be effective.
Are there any known side effects with manual therapy?
Generally, there should not be any side effects with manual therapy, though do
consult the individual entries for further information.
Where can you find further information on manual therapy?
The Burnham Review twice monthly e-newsletter regarding manual therapy and
related techniques
American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia
Canadian Orthopractic Manual Therapy Association
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Marma Therapy
What is marma therapy?
Marma therapy, or marma massage, is a part of the ancient Indian medicine practice
ayurveda and is said to date back to about 1500 BC.
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Marma therapy is based on the principle of using marma points which are located
around the body, very similar to the acupuncture points used in traditional Chinese
medicine.
The power of these marma points was first realised by masters of an ancient martial
art who discovered which points around the body could inflict the most pain and
injury on their opponents.
In addition, they realised that there was a special network of points around the body,
and that by stimulating one point it aided repair at another point and hence they used
this for healing.
Ayurvedic medicine is regularly practised as a chief form of medical care in India and
the practice of marma therapy is an integral part of this even in todays society.
How does marma therapy work?
Depending on which tradition is used, there are either 108 or 365 marma points
throughout the body. In addition to these, there are also vital areas of the body,
simply called marma.
The marma and marma points are what constitute the bodys life force, and hence by
using marma therapy, you are conditioning these areas to either improve or maintain
good health.
Massaging the marma points allows blocked energy to be cleared so that energies
can flow freely again. In a marma therapy massage session, the points are
massaged using specific essential oils and the massage is performed in a specific
sequence with the therapist using both his hands and feet to perform it.
What can marma therapy be used for?
As a form of massage, marma therapy can be used to treat muscular aches and
pains, back pain and sports injuries. And as an alternative medicine practice, it is
believed that marma therapy has a far deeper use throughout the body, such as
stimulating, and perhaps healing, the bodys organs and other systems.
Is marma therapy an effective form of therapy?
In the Western world, marma therapy is still a relatively new practice, as is ayurvedic
medicine in general. As a result, substantial testing of the efficacy of either has not
yet taken place and so medical opinions remain sceptical.
However, marma therapy has been used for thousands of years in India and is an
integral part of ayurveda, which is practised frequently in Indian hospitals. So this in
itself would tend to suggest that there must be some effectiveness to marma therapy
for it to have lasted as a form of therapy for so long.
Are there any known side effects with marma therapy?
There are no known side effects with marma therapy.
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Where can you find further information on marma therapy?

Kerala Ayurvedic Health Clinic
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Martial Arts Therapy

What is martial arts therapy?
Martial arts therapy can be both an alternative and a complementary therapy for
treating various medical disorders through the practice of martial arts.
Martial arts has long been recognised as an important discipline for combat training,
but is now more recently being investigated for its therapeutic strengths.
There are various different forms of martial arts therapy and different conditions can
be treated with different forms. This aspect is particularly important because martial
arts can vary hugely and hence what is suitable for one condition may be totally
wrong for another.
Examples of some of the methods used in martial arts therapy include: boxing,
karate, judo, jujutsu, wrestling, tae kwon do, and Tai Chi Chuan.
How does martial arts therapy work?
How martial arts therapy works will depend firstly on what condition is being treated
and secondly what form of martial arts is used to treat it. Also, to a certain extent, the
way in which the art is taught.
Tai Chi Chuan, for example, is a good choice for treating people who have
difficulties with balancing and coordination. But this would not be a good form of
therapy for someone with aggression.
However, there has not been enough research into martial arts therapy as yet to
come up with a very clear picture of which conditions are treated best with which
martial arts, and hence it is difficult to say exactly how martial arts therapy works.
What can martial arts therapy be used for?
Following on from the above, as there hasnt been enough research into this field yet
it is difficult to say precisely.
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But as a generalisation, these are the sort of problems that may be effectively
treated with martial arts therapy:
to improve self-esteem
to improve self-confidence
to improve fitness levels
to develop self-defence skills
to develop personal skills necessary to deal with conflict
to develop mindfulness
to control anger
to improve body awareness
to improve physical properties such as balance and coordination
Is martial arts therapy an effective form of therapy?

There has been some research into whether martial arts therapy is an effective form
of therapy, though the results have been ambiguous. The general opinion is that
martial arts therapy is an effective form of therapy for generating positive physical
effects, but in terms of psychological benefits, it has been more difficult to research
and prove.
Are there any known side effects with martial arts therapy?
The only possible side effects are the potential for injury, though this really can
happen with any form of physical exercise.
Where can you find further information on martial arts therapy?
Wikipedia entry on martial arts therapy
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Massage Therapy
What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is a general term used to describe a multitude of different
techniques which all involve some sort of body manipulation for the treatment of
physiological and sometimes psychological conditions.
The word massage is a French word, meaning friction of kneading, which
describes the process often used a sort of kneading movement. However, not all
forms of massage therapy use this technique and, in fact, techniques can vary
hugely across the board.
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Massage therapy has been used in one form or another for thousands of years.
Techniques have grown from other techniques to the point where there are now over
80 different massage therapy methods. The popularity of massage therapy rose in
the United States and the United Kingdom during the mid 1800s. And after suffering
a decline in popularity, massage therapy is now at its most popular and is commonly
used by many people at regular intervals.
How does massage therapy work?
With over 80 different massage therapies, it is difficult to say exactly how they work
as each one will vary, some by just a little and others will have huge variations.
The common thread between all techniques is that they involve a certain amount of
pressure, tension, motion or vibration which can be performed manually or with
mechanical aids.
Massage therapy which is performed manually can include using the hands, fingers,
feet, elbows or forearm.
The main aim is to manipulate the soft tissues and muscles of the body in order to
relax them so that the flow of oxygen and blood to that particular area of the body
can be restored.
What can massage therapy be used for?
Generally speaking, massage therapy is used for relaxation and for the resulting
benefits of this, including: to relieve pain, to treat tendonitis and muscular injuries, to
treat bursitis, to improve the lymph system, to reduce anxiety and ease depression
and stress, to reduce blood pressure, to improve sleep patterns and to relieve
headaches.
Each massage therapy will vary to a certain extent and some will have been
developed to treat just one specific area of the body, hence the above is just a
generalisation.
Is massage therapy an effective form of therapy?
Massage therapy, depending on the technique, is considered to be both a
recognised medical procedure and an alternative medicine and, therefore, opinion on
whether it is an effective form of therapy is divided.
Techniques which are alternative are often not considered to be effective by the
medical world.
Are there any known side effects with massage therapy?
Whether there are any side effects with massage therapy will depend on what type
of massage therapy is being used. Generally though, if administered by a trained
practitioner there should be no risk of harm.
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Where can you find further information on massage therapy?
Wikipedia entry on massage therapy
How Massage Works
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Matrix Energetics
What is Matrix Energetics?
Matrix Energetics is an alternative medicine described as a system of healing, selfcare and transformation. It is a technique which is said to be available to the masses
as anyone can learn it and practise it.
Matrix Energetics is a mix of physics and quantum physics as well as focused intent
which allows the user to reach new states of awareness where they are able to work
with and transform the material world.
It is a complicated process to describe but is said to be one which simply works,
even though the man who developed it, Dr Richard Bartlett, cant precisely describe
the mechanisms. He suggests it is easier to experience it than to try to understand it!
The background to Matrix Energetics began when Dr Bartlett, a chiropractor, was
treating a patient. It became apparent that by lightly touching the patient and
focusing intent, very remarkable results occurred, such as bones realigning
themselves.
How does Matrix Energetics work?
As mentioned above, the exact way in which Matrix Energetics works is quite
complicated and a full description is beyond the realms of this article.
However, the main concept is that Matrix Energetics is a healing technique which
utilises the principles and science of subtle energy and quantum physics, coupled
with the incredible power of active imagination and focused intent to produce
physical verifiable effects that often defy rational explanation (from the Matrix
Energetics website).
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What can Matrix Energetics be used for?

Matrix Energetics can be used for many conditions though the majority appear to be
muscular and skeletal orthopaedic and for things like headaches. It is said to
have cured or assisted in curing serious conditions like scoliosis.
Is Matrix Energetics an effective form of therapy?
There are a couple of references to research on the Matrix Energetics website,
which suggest that this is an effective form of therapy. Proof is given by the provision
of polycontrast interference photography (PIP) scans which would tend to indicate
positive effects in patients.
However, because this is a relatively new technique there has not been a great deal
of research conducted. And the research on the Matrix Energetics website could be
deemed to be biased.
Therefore it is difficult to say whether or not Matrix Energetics is an effective form of
therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Matrix Energetics?
There are no known side effects with Matrix Energetics.
Where can you find further information on Matrix Energetics?
Matrix Energetics
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Medical Herbalism
What is medical herbalism?
Medical herbalism is one of several terms used to describe the alternative and/or
complementary use of plants and plant extracts for the treatment of numerous
diseases and conditions.
Although called medical herbalism, this term is usually used when describing
traditional or folk medicine practices which may also be referred to as herbal
medicine, herbalism, phytotherapy and herbology.
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You can read all about how medical herbalism works, what it can be used for, how
effective it is, and whether there are any known side effects within the herbal
medicine entry.
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Meditation Therapy
What is meditation therapy?
Meditation is a mind focusing technique which has been used in some form for over
5,000 years and is practised by almost all religions around the world. It is a process
which is considered to include elements of spiritual and/or psychophysical practices
with the aim of achieving higher levels of mental concentration or mental calm.
The word meditation comes from the Latin meditatio which means contemplation
and is practiced in two forms: mindfulness and concentrative. Most meditation
therapy will use one or the other, though there are some techniques which switch
between the two. Also, the way in which it is practised varies between the religions.
Religions that have practices that include meditation therapy include: Hinduism,
Buddhism, Bahai Faith, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Jainism, Sikhism and Taoism.
In addition, meditation therapy has become quite popular in the western world with
those who consider themselves to be New Age practitioners and secular forms of
meditation therapy have also been developed for those who do not require the
mystical content.
How does meditation therapy work?
Mindfulness meditation therapy is performed by focusing awareness on an object or
a process, so commonly this could be breathing, or a visualisation or an exercise.
Once focused, you clear your mind of all other thoughts and things which are
bothering you, but you remain in the here and now, using your focus of attention as
a sort of anchor.
Concentration meditation therapy is performed by focusing on a particular object and
is the form of meditation used most commonly in religious and spiritual techniques.
The meditator holds their attention on the object whilst minimising distractions.
What can meditation therapy be used for?
Meditation therapy is most recognised as being useful for relaxation purposes, and it
has been identified that there are several behavioural components to meditation too,
including concentration, altered state of awareness, suspension of logical thought
processes and for maintaining a self-observing attitude.
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In addition, medical studies have looked at the various physiological effects of
meditation therapy. It is recognised as a method of stress and pain reduction and its
effects on cardiovascular and respiratory functions have also been considered.
Is meditation therapy an effective form of therapy?
More and more studies are being conducted into the effectiveness of meditation
therapy for both its physical and psychophysical benefits. It is being increasingly
used and recognised in conventional medicine.
Added to this, the fact that meditation therapy has been used for over 5,000 years
suggests that this is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with meditation therapy?
Generally meditation therapy has no side effects. However, there is increased risk
for people particularly those with a history of mental illness or those who are not
experienced in lengthy meditative sessions of psychotic episodes.
Where can you find further information on meditation therapy?
Wikipedia entry on meditation therapy
Meditation Community
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Mega-Vitamin Therapy
What is mega-vitamin therapy?
Mega-vitamin therapy, as the name suggests, is the use of very high amounts of
vitamins for the purpose of either preventing or of treating various illnesses and
conditions. Mega-vitamin therapy is commonly used as an alternative and a
complementary medicine, though is not recognised by the mainstream medical
world.
Mega-vitamin therapy began to be considered as important from the 1930s, when
there was some experimental evidence suggesting the possible benefits of vitamins
C, E and B-3. A mega dose of vitamin E was developed in order to treat
cardiovascular and circulatory complaints by a Canadian named Shute, giving it the
name the Shute protocol. Experiments with vitamin C followed and the process of
mega-vitamin therapy developed from there.
Mega-vitamin therapy is still used today, though usually without medical approval,
and studies are still being conducted.
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How does mega-vitamin therapy work?

It has been medically believed since the 1930s that vitamins are good for the body
and should be an essential part of the everyday diet. By eating sensibly, and by
eating a good variety of different foods, the body should be able to extract all of the
vitamins it needs. So this therapy is based on the principle that if a small amount of
vitamins are good for the bodys health, then a large amount should be even better.
The vitamins which are most commonly used in a mega-vitamin therapy are vitamins
C, A and E.
What can mega-vitamin therapy be used for?
Mega-vitamin therapy may be suggested for a number of reasons. Its regularly used
as a treatment for the common cold, though some practitioners are suggesting that
this could be a good form of treatment for serious illnesses, for example, cancer.
Is mega-vitamin therapy an effective form of therapy?
Mega-vitamin therapy is largely considered to be an ineffective form of therapy by
the medical world that has not been given significant proof that large volumes of
vitamins are any better for the body than the recommended daily amounts. In
addition, there are the worries about the adverse effects which mega-vitamin therapy
can have on the body (discussed below).
Mega-vitamin therapy is popularly being quoted as a treatment for cancer over the
past few years, but there is currently no proof that this is correct. However, studies
are being proposed to take place to test whether vitamin C may be good for cancer
treatment.
Are there any known side effects with mega-vitamin therapy?
There are concerns regarding mega-vitamin therapy and the effect which too many
vitamins can have on the body. It is reported that large doses of vitamin A, vitamin C,
vitamin D and pyridoxine (vitamin B6) may have adverse side effects.
However, supporters of mega-vitamin therapy suggest that there has been virtually
no evidence to suggest that deaths have been caused from overdosing on vitamins
when compared to deaths from overdosing on over the counter medicines.
Where can you find further information on mega-vitamin therapy?
Doctor Yourself The War Against Vitamin Therapy
Wikipedia entry on Megavitamin Therapy
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Meridian Therapy
What is meridian therapy?
Meridian therapy is a general term used to describe a number of different therapies
which are mainly classified as mind-body techniques and which have in common the
fact that they are based on a theory involving the bodys life energy force.
Some examples of therapies considered to be meridian therapy are Emotional
Freedom Technique (EFT), acupressure and energy medicine, all of which have their
own entries with further information about each of them and how they work.
How does meridian therapy work?
The general theory behind meridian therapy comes from ancient healing techniques
used in traditional Chinese medicine. This dictates that all bodily problems, be they
physical or emotional, are as a result of blocked pathways in our bodys vital energy
force. These pathways, called meridians, need to be unblocked in order for the body
to begin the process of healing.
The techniques classed as meridian therapy therefore aim to unblock and clear the
bodys energy flows by using various different methods.
What can meridian therapy be used for?
As stated above, the main aim of meridian therapy is to clear blockages in the bodys
energy field and by clearing blockages the body can set about healing itself.
So in a way, meridian therapy isnt used for one particular condition, but as a means
for treating multiple conditions.
Some of the conditions quoted as being helped by meridian therapy include:
headaches, back pains, allergies, addictions, panic and anxiety, depression, weight
loss, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and pain management.
Is meridian therapy an effective form of therapy?
The effectiveness of meridian therapy depends on a large extent to which particular
form of meridian therapy is being used. However, being an alternative medicine,
scepticism in the mainstream medical world is high for these sorts of therapies and
without proper clinical studies having taken place, there is little proof to suggest that
meridian therapy is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with meridian therapy?
Whether there are any side effects associated with meridian therapy depends
completely on which type of therapy technique is being used as the techniques can
vary quite significantly. Please consult each individual therapy listed above for full
details of risks and side effects associated with them.
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Where can you find further information on meridian therapy?

The Health Oasis
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Mesotherapy
What is mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a treatment which involves injecting various pharmaceutical and
homeopathic medicines into the body with the purported effect of being able to kill fat
cells.
The process was first researched by a French doctor, Michel Pistor, and with multinational backing in the mid-1900s human treatments were introduced. The name
mesotherapy was actually adopted by the French press in 1958 and in the years
following, mesotherapy became quite a common practice and is now used
worldwide, though it has only recently started in North America.
How does mesotherapy work?
Mesotherapy works by injecting mixtures of medicines into the subcutaneous fat
layer in the body, where it is said that they are able to target fat cells, then rupture
and kill them. The result is that if there is no fat cell present, the body cannot
produce fat.
What can mesotherapy be used for?
The main aim of mesotherapy is to get rid of fat cells and hence it can be used for
overall weight loss, weight loss to a specific area of the body, reducing cellulite and
also for getting rid of wrinkles.
In addition, it is said that mesotherapy can be used for multiple other conditions as
well, including as a treatment for hair loss and for treating scar tissue.
Is mesotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Although mesotherapy has been used quite commonly over the past 50 years, there
is actually little proof of the process being effective. This lack of clinical evidence is
now becoming a cause for concern as mesotherapy is experiencing another rise in
popularity and is considered by some to be a potentially dangerous form of treatment
(see below).
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There have been studies published which claim that the treatment is effective. But
these studies do not give conclusive proof that the compounds do actually work to
specifically target the fat calls.
Are there any known side effects with mesotherapy?
There is concern in the medical world as to the safety of mesotherapy. Often the
mixtures of medications and other compounds are not actually declared, so its
possible that the combinations could be dangerous.
One particular drug which is commonly used, called phosphatidylcholin, is apparently
unpredictable and can cause extreme swelling and inflammation at the point of
injection. This drug has already been banned in some countries, though continues to
be used in those countries which have not banned it.
Where can you find further information on mesotherapy?
The American Board of Aesthetic Mesotherapy
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Meta-Aromatherapy
What is meta-aromatherapy?
Meta-aromatherapy is a type of healing therapy that has been developed from
traditional aromatherapy practises as a more modern approach to this ancient
therapy.
Meta-aromatherapy was developed by Christine Westwood in the 1990s and brings
together a number of different therapies to result in a technique which is said to be
particularly effective for chronic conditions. Rather than using oils for just their
physiological effects, meta-aromatherapy uses them for their psychological effects
too, combined with bodywork, counselling and hypnotherapy to offer a far more
comprehensive form of therapy.
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How does meta-aromatherapy work?

A meta-aromatherapy session will begin with an aromatherapy massage using
specially selected essential oils. Physical and psychological conditions are discussed
and the massage works on particular problem areas. Once the body is relaxed
further problems can be worked on.
The client is encouraged to talk about feelings and events and the therapist needs to
listen without judgement because any judgement can have a profound effect on the
healing process. The therapist must therefore ask the right questions and talk to the
child within the client.
There is strong use of metaphors. This is because metaphors can be used to
represent problems and are easier to rid from the body than something which cannot
be easily represented on its own.
What can meta-aromatherapy be used for?
Meta-aromatherapy is said to be particularly useful for treating chronic and recurring
conditions, as recurring conditions especially are often as a result of psychological
and/or emotional issues. In addition it is used for trauma release.
Is meta-aromatherapy an effective form of therapy?
As meta-aromatherapy is a relatively new and unheard of form of therapy, there
have not been studies into its effectiveness. And because it combines several
different alternative therapies, it is difficult to quantify any results accurately.
However, there are a number of documented cases which have shown very positive
results which have occurred in a very short time a far shorter time than would be
expected if the therapies used were used independently of each other. Therefore,
there are encouraging signs that meta-aromatherapy could be an effective form of
therapy.
Are there any known side effects with meta-aromatherapy?
There are no known side effects with meta-aromatherapy.
Where can you find further information on meta-aromatherapy?
Complementary Medical Association
The Clean Collection Healing Unresolved Trauma Through Meta-Aromatherapy
by Christine Westwood.
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Metamorphic Technique
What is Metamorphic Technique?
Metamorphic Technique is a form of massage which, according to the Metamorphic
Association, is not a therapy or a treatment because it does not address specific
issues. Instead it is a light touch technique which aids to relax the body and to let the
body take on its own healing role and can be used in conjunction with conventional
or alternative medicines and therapies.
Metamorphic Technique was developed in the 1960s by a British man, Robert St.
John, who was a naturopath and reflexologist. He began developing an alternative to
reflexology when he discovered that he had more success with his patients when he
gave them a general massage rather than trying to treat specific conditions. In the
1970s, his ideas were further developed by his student, Gaston Saint Pierre, who
came up with the name Metamorphic Technique and started the Metamorphic
Association in 1979.
How does Metamorphic Technique work?
Metamorphic Technique works by applying a light touch on the spinal reflex points in
the feet, hands and head. Sessions are non-diagnostic and the practitioner does not
seek to find out any medical history or make any judgements regarding the client;
they are simply there to give the technique.
Metamorphic Technique is described as an empowering tool for enabling people to
get out of their own way, let go of past limitations and move forward in their lives.
This is because the technique reputedly clears blocks in the clients energy pattern
which allows the client to bring about their own changes, both physically and
emotionally.
What can Metamorphic Technique be used for?
Metamorphic Technique can be used as a form of relaxation, though it is intended to
provide far deeper purpose than just relaxation.
Some clients are said to feel energised rather than relaxed, and the technique can
also bring about improvements in the physical, mental and emotional health of the
client as they are able to let go of past hurts and change old habits. It is reported that
some clients can feel completely different about life after a session and find renewed
inner strength and purpose.
Is Metamorphic Technique an effective form of therapy?
There has not been a great deal of research into the efficacy of the Metamorphic
Technique, so it is difficult to conclude whether or not this is an effective form of
therapy.
Massaging the reflex points should bring about benefits to the body, whether or not
the technique has broader results. But techniques claimed to be based in the bodys
life force energy are usually labelled as pseudoscience and any positive outcomes
are often thought to be just the placebo effect.
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Are there any known side effects with Metamorphic Technique?
There are no known side effects with Metamorphic Technique and because it is a
non-invasive therapy it is safe for people of all ages and of all health conditions.
Where can you find further information on Metamorphic Technique?
Metamorphic Association
Complementary Health and Alternative Medicine
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Microwave Resonance Therapy

What is microwave resonance therapy?
Microwave resonance therapy is a new form of medical treatment which combines
the ancient theory of traditional Chinese medicines acupuncture points with modern
advancements in biophysics.
Microwave resonance therapy was introduced by a group of Russian physicians in
1980 and within 10 years, 150,000 patients had been treated using this method. It is
causing quite a lot of excitement in the medical world even though this is essentially
an alternative medicine with its background in ancient practices.
How does microwave resonance therapy work?
Microwave resonance therapy works by directing high frequency microwaves of
between 52 and 78 GHz at the various acupuncture points around the body. This is
said to have a similar affect to what a treatment of acupuncture would do in that it
affects the bodys life force field or more correctly in this case, the electromagnetic
field.
It is believed that the electromagnetic field becomes disturbed and that by directing
microwaves at the important points of the field it can be stabilised and hence
influenced to aid the body to heal itself.
What can microwave resonance therapy be used for?
There are reports of many different conditions being successfully treated with
microwave resonance therapy and these are often conditions which havent
responded to conventional methods or medications. It is also not only successful in
one particular field of medicine but in many, including: gastroenterology, neurology,
urology, gynaecology, dermatology, cardiology, oncology and pulmonology amongst
others.
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Is microwave resonance therapy an effective form of therapy?
Reports of the great success of microwave resonance therapy would seem to
indicate that this is the next miracle cure, or treatment, for numerous diseases with
many showing significant improvement and also high rates of complete recovery.
It is reported that microwave resonance therapy has been used on millions of
patients around the world and that the process recently won an important scientific
award in the field of medicine. However, there is still relatively little information
available on the process and little proof could be found which showed undisputed
evidence of the effectiveness of microwave resonance therapy.
Are there any known side effects with microwave resonance therapy?
Microwave resonance therapy is said to be an extremely safe form of therapy for a
number of reasons: it is non-invasive and non-manipulative and is therefore
completely painless. There is no medication involved, meaning that there is no
problem treating a patient who might otherwise be allergic to medications or who
hasnt responded to conventional medicines, and hence there are no side effects.
Where can you find further information on microwave resonance therapy?
TherapyNet
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Molecular Reform Therapy

What is molecular reform therapy?
Molecular reform therapy is a holistic approach to health which is based on the
principle that a healthy body is determined by healthy cells and that by maintaining
our cellular health, we will remain well and free from disease.
Molecular reform therapy is said to be based on research which has taken place
over the past 150 years, and which was culminated by the U.S. Congresss Special
Committee of Nutrient Investigation, established in 1975.
Dr Linus Pauling led this team who developed the concept of molecular reform
therapy within a report titled Elements Required by Humans and Nutrients.
The concept was well received by the medical world and was predicted to become
part of mainstream medical practice in the 21st century.
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How does molecular reform therapy work?
Molecular reform therapy is a holistic, self-management therapy which suggests that
the key to our health is through healthy maintenance of our bodys cells which is
thought to be achieved by making sure we consume adequate levels of nutrients.
With adequate nutrients our cells can maintain a healthy metabolism and activity,
which has positive effects throughout the body.
A four step method of molecular reform therapy is recommended, which involves the
following steps: balanced nutrition, increasing oxygen intake, detoxification and
health regulation.
What can molecular reform therapy be used for?
Because molecular reform therapy concentrates its efforts on maintaining healthy
cells, it is not a therapy which specifically addresses one particular condition but is
said to be all encompassing for general health and wellbeing.
This in turn leads to optimum body functions and reinforcement of the immune
system, and hence should aid the body to rid itself of any diseases which are
currently present or which try to invade in the future.
Is molecular reform therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is little recorded evidence as to whether or not molecular reform therapy is an
effective form of therapy. However, the concept behind molecular reform therapy (of
keeping to a healthy diet with many nutrients) is recognised around the world as
being effective for maintaining the bodys health. This therefore would tend to
suggest that molecular reform therapy is an effective form of therapy.
Being a self-management system as well, molecular reform therapy is easy to use
and accessible to the general population.
Are there any known side effects with molecular reform therapy?
There are no known side effects with molecular reform therapy though care should
be taken as to quantities and types of nutrients taken.
Where can you find further information on molecular reform therapy?
Elken Molecular Reform Therapy
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Morita Therapy
What is Morita Therapy?
Morita Therapy is a type of psychotherapy which, rather than trying to alleviate
symptoms, it encourages the patient to build their character so that they are able to
deal with life regardless of what happens, how they feel etc. The ideal result is to be
able to live a fulfilling life which is not dominated by emotional states.
Morita Therapy was developed in the late 1920s and early 1930s by Japanese
psychiatrist, Dr Shoma Morita. The original version of this therapy was aimed
primarily at the Japanese culture of the time and as a treatment for anxiety-based
disorders. Since then, it has been accepted that both differences in cultures and the
passing of time has warranted changing some of the theories and practice behind
Morita Therapy. Hence Morita Therapy Methods (MTM) were developed for a
Western audience.
How does Morita Therapy work?
Morita Therapy is not a cure for anxiety, stress or depression, but rather it presents
the patient with a path which they can take, along which they will discover how to
help themselves. It shows them how to cope with unfairness and emotional trauma,
by not dwelling on the whys and wherefores, but by finding an inner strength and the
ability to deal with life and ultimately to enjoy a fulfilling and happy life.
There are four key stages to Morita Therapy treatment: Stage one is a rest stage
where the patient must learn to switch off from the outside world and use a nonspiritually based meditation which is designed to get the patient in touch with their
own internal healing peace.
Stage two brings the patient back into contact with the outside world and gets them
to write their thoughts and feelings into a journal in an effort to separate the two.
Being outside of the house encourages the patient to get back in touch with nature,
something which may have been out of their lives for a long period.
Stage three is described as being hard work. For people on the programme who
have suffered a physical injury, this is the stage at which they are pushed to heal
themselves. It is also the stage at which the right side of the brain is utilised as
creativity of various forms is encouraged.
Stage four involves the coming together of the previous three stages. It encourages
the patient to use what they have learnt in their everyday lives. They are not
returning to their life as it was, but a new life and a new self.
What can Morita Therapy be used for?
Although originally developed for what was known at the time as anxiety-based
disorders, Morita Therapy can be used on a much wider range of conditions.
The principles of Morita Therapy can be used by those who do not have any mental
health issues and who simply want to focus their lives and the way they live them, for
the better. In addition, it can be used in a variety of settings with people who have
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suffered physical injury, as a way of encouraging them back to health, and for people
with terminal illnesses as a way of encouraging them to live the remainder of their
lives to the fullest.
Is Morita Therapy an effective form of therapy?
There is not a great deal of published evidence to support the effectiveness of Morita
Therapy, though this is not to suggest that it is not an effective form of therapy. It has
been used in Japan (its country of origin) since the 1920s, and there was enough
interest in the modern Western world for it to be developed to suit this population
better. This would tend to suggest that it must be recognised as an, at least partly,
effective therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Morita Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Morita Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Morita Therapy?
Wikipedia entry on Morita Therapy
The ToDo Institute
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Moxibustion Therapy
What is moxibustion therapy?
Moxibustion is an ancient therapy technique which uses moxa, commonly known as
mugwort herb, which is burnt on or in proximity to the bodys acupuncture points.
Moxibustion is an ancient technique used in traditional Chinese medicine as well as
in traditional medicines of Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet and Mongolia, and it is
becoming more commonly used in the Western world too.
Although moxibustion uses the acupuncture points, it is said to actually pre-date the
acupuncture technique which was developed to complement moxibustion in the 2nd
century BC.
How does moxibustion therapy work?
Moxibustion therapy uses the herb moxa in one of several forms: either processed
into a wand or cigar-like stick which is burnt just above the skin, or in small cones
which are burnt in contact with the skin although there will usually be something
covering the skin so as not to cause burning.
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There are several effects caused by the moxibustion therapy. Firstly, there is the
effect of the heat as it warms the acupuncture points of the body and promotes the
free-flowing of the bodys energy, called Qi. This also helps the blood and lymph to
circulate freely.
The herb itself also has useful properties as it is said to have immunoregulatory
effects by increasing both red and white blood cell production. It also stimulates
production of interferon proteins which aid the immune system in targeting diseases,
infections and tumours.
Moxibustion therapy can also be used in combination with acupuncture needles for
increased effects.
What can moxibustion therapy be used for?
It is reported that moxibustion therapy can be used for a large number of conditions,
including: for treating the common cold, used against fatigue, for sports and
muscular injuries, for arthritic, rheumatoid and osteoarthritic conditions, for
neurological conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, for
respiratory tract infections and asthma, for digestive disorders and for aiding
reproductive conditions, such as infertility.
Is moxibustion therapy an effective form of therapy?
As a therapy which has been used for thousands of years and continues to be
popular today, it is suggested that moxibustion therapy should be an effective form of
therapy. In the Western world, where further proof is usually sought, there is not a
great deal of evidence as to the efficacy of moxibustion therapy and because this is
considered to be an alternative therapy, scepticism will remain high.
Are there any known side effects with moxibustion therapy?
There are no known side effects with moxibustion therapy except only for the risk of
burns. However, if the therapy is performed by an experienced practitioner, then
there should be no chance of this happening, as the practitioner will know what
precautions to take.
Where can you find further information on moxibustion therapy?
Wikipedia entry on moxibustion therapy
Acupuncture Today
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Multimodal Therapy
What is multimodal therapy?
Multimodal therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach which does not use just one
form of psychotherapy, but many.
It uses a variety of different theoretical approaches but does not necessarily adhere
to their fundamental beliefs.
Multimodal therapy was developed by psychologist, Dr Arnold Lazarus, in the mid
1970s as an improvement to his pioneering work on behaviour and cognitive
behaviour therapy. Lazarus realised that in order to successfully treat patients, it was
not just one aspect of the persona that had to be addressed, but many.
You can read more about behaviour therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy in the
behaviour therapy entry.
How does multimodal therapy work?
Multimodal therapy is based on the principles of cognitive behaviour therapy which
aims to eliminate irrational and inaccurate thoughts and feelings.
This is not achieved by following a pre-determined set of therapeutic rules, but by
adapting therapy for each individual during which the therapist can draw on any
number of other psychotherapeutic techniques; which ever are the most appropriate
to that particular patient.
Multimodal therapy does, however, follow a framework which consists of seven
modalities, forming the acronym BASIC ID. These are: Behaviour, Affect, Sensation,
Imagery, Cognition, Interpersonal and Drugs/Biology.
This framework recognises the fact that humans are biological beings and as such
we are constantly interacting with the world around us. In this sense, multimodal
therapy considers the fact it is many elements of our biology which affect us, and not
just one (as is the case with some other forms of psychotherapy).
What can multimodal therapy be used for?
Multimodal therapy can be used for a variety of conditions including depression,
stress, anxiety, trauma, environmental factors and more.
Is multimodal therapy an effective form of therapy?
It is suggested that multimodal therapy has been recognised as one of the most
effective forms of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). CBT itself and the root of CBT,
behaviour therapy, are in turn recognised as important and effective forms of
therapy.
Are there any known side effects with multimodal therapy?
There are no known side effects with multimodal therapy.
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Where can you find further information on multimodal therapy?

Centre for Stress Management
Wikipedia entry on multimodal therapy
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Music Therapy
What is music therapy?
Music therapy does not teach music rather it encourages the positive effects of
music in a therapeutic setting. It is considered to be an expressive therapy and is
particularly useful for both children and adults who have learning difficulties, mental
health problems, sensory or motor disabilities.
Music therapy was first developed in the United States in the early to mid 1940s as it
began to be recognised more for its therapeutic values rather than just as a way of
diverting attention and entertaining patients. Musicians were encouraged to learn
about the medical and physiological issues, but did not have any official training until
the first music therapy course was established in 1946. Four years later, the first
professional body, the National Association of Music Therapy, was established in the
US.
Meanwhile in the UK, musician Juliette Alvin had been training music therapists
following her own work with children with learning disabilities, and in 1958 she and
colleagues formed the British Society for Music Therapy. Since the 1960s, music
therapy has been widely used in health, education and social services in the UK.
How does music therapy work?
Music therapy forms a strong relationship between the client and the therapist and
allows a safe environment in which the client can express themselves through music,
whether this be singing, listening or playing an instrument. Clients are not taught how
to play, but are encouraged to explore and create their own musical language. The
therapist can respond musically to what the client is doing and in this respect, it
encourages the client further.
The main aim of music therapy is to increase positive changes in the client, whether
this is through development of motor skills, changes in behaviour and emotional wellbeing or improving self-confidence and self-awareness.
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What can music therapy be used for?

Music therapy is most commonly used with adults and children who have mental or
physical disabilities or difficulties. It can be used to improve motor skills and sensory
skills as well as other physical or developmental problems. In addition, it has proved
to be very beneficial when used with psychological conditions, and according to the
Music Therapy Charity, it is so flexible that it can be used with good effect to
address almost the entire range of mental and psychological problems, from the
most basic to the most challenging and self-destructive.
Is music therapy an effective form of therapy?
Music therapy has both clinical and evidence-based proof that this is an effective
form of therapy. It is well recognised and commonly used in both the United States
and the United Kingdom, where the NHS uses Music Therapy regularly and is the
largest employer of music therapists in the UK.
Are there any known side effects with music therapy?
There are no known side effects with music therapy.
Where can you find further information on music therapy?
British Society for Music Therapy
The American Music Therapy Association
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Myofascial Release
What is myofascial release?
Myofascial release is classified as a bodywork form of complementary medicine. A
practitioner uses massage techniques to stretch the fascia (the soft tissue
component of the connective tissue system in our bodies) and to release
attachments between fascia, muscles, bones and integument (the external covering
of the body).
There are various reports of the origins of myofascial release, which vary according
to which method of myofascial release is being adopted, as there is both a direct
myofascial release and an indirect myofascial release method.
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Direct myofascial release is said to have been derived from a method used in the
1920s called fascial twist. Around about the same time, a German physiotherapist
developed connective tissue massage in which the myofascia was stretched. Indirect
myofascial release is said to have originated in the late 19th century. It used a
concept developed by the founder of osteopathic medicine, Andrew Taylor Still,
though the term myofascial release was not adopted until 1981.
How does myofascial release work?
Direct myofascial release involves the application of pressure and is a very similar
process to that used in the technique called rolfing, which is discussed in its own
entry. Indirect myofascial release on the other hand, applies a lighter pressure and is
the more commonly used description for this therapy.
Indirect myofascial release involves light pressure with gentle stretching which is
held for between 90 to 120 seconds to allow the fascia to unwind itself. The gentle
pressure is said to stimulate the area by providing heat and resulting in increased
blood flow so that the body has the ability to self correct itself.
What can myofascial release be used for?
There are a variety of conditions which myofascial release is quoted as being able to
treat. These include: chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, menstrual discomfort,
sciatica, sports injuries, whiplash, dizziness and vertigo, headaches, neck and
shoulder pain and tension, frozen shoulder and multiple other conditions too.
Is myofascial release an effective form of therapy?
There is little evidence of many clinical studies having taken place in the field of
myofascial release, therefore it is difficult to say with certainty whether this is an
effective form of therapy. In addition, although the technique is gaining in popularity
somewhat, it is still considered to be in the alternative category of medicine.
Are there any known side effects with myofascial release?
There are no known side effects with myofascial release.
Where can you find further information on myofascial release?
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release.com
Article on myofascial release, by a physiotherapist
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N
Narrative Therapy
What is narrative therapy?
Narrative therapy is a type of psychotherapy which aims to assist patients in
recounting their stories (or narratives) of their lives, which is, on a basic level, an
attempt to distance that person from their problems.
Narrative therapy was developed throughout the 1970s and 1980s by Australian
psychotherapist Michael White and New Zealander, David Epston. In the 1990s,
their approach found popularity in North America when their book Narrative Means
to Therapeutic Ends was published. Despite this, and the recognition which White
earned for his work in family therapy, narrative therapy is actually fairly heavily
criticised for several reasons (see below).
How does narrative therapy work?
Narrative therapy provides a means for the patient, or client, to essentially solve their
own problems. The client is encouraged to talk about their life. The therapist is there
to examine what is being said and to direct the client by asking appropriate questions
which can help the client to externalise a problem or problems.
Hence, the therapist plays a crucial part in the therapy. Rather than just being there
to listen to an account, the therapist can evaluate the account and then play an
important role in the healing process.
What can narrative therapy be used for?
It would appear that narrative therapy is a quite generalised form of therapy in that it
can be used in a variety of different situations and to help clients to solve many
different problems that they might be experiencing in their lives. For example,
narrative therapy has often been used as a technique for family and relationships
therapy.
Is narrative therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although narrative therapy quickly gained a following and is practised in many
Western countries, there have been a number of criticisms over the way in which it is
conducted and as to its claims of efficacy.
One concern is that because the therapist very much guides the client, there is
nothing to stop the therapists own personal opinions encroaching on the session,
and this concern has not been acknowledged by the developers. Secondly, there is
concern over the fact that research conducted into the effectiveness of narrative
therapy has been very much qualitative rather than quantitative, and hence cannot
be relied as support of its efficacy.
In summary, there is currently not much evidence which can be relied upon to
support the fact that narrative therapy is an effective form of therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with narrative therapy?

There are no known side effects with narrative therapy.
Where can you find further information on narrative therapy?
Wikipedia entry on narrative therapy
Dulwich Centre (Australia)
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Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

What is natural hormone replacement therapy?
Natural hormone replacement therapy may also be referred to as bioidentical
hormone replacement therapy or BHRT. It is a treatment designed primarily to
alleviate the effects of the menopause in women.
Natural hormone replacement therapy uses chemically produced hormones which
are identical in content and composure to those which are produced naturally by our
bodies. These chemically produced hormones may be used instead of syntheticallyproduced ones and may be safer and more effective.
Natural hormone replacement therapy has become a popular form of treatment for
menopausal women since a study was conducted by the Womens Health Initiative
(WHI) which showed unfavourable results with synthetically produced hormones.
How does natural hormone replacement therapy work?
Natural hormone replacement therapy works by chemically producing a hormone
which is biologically identical to the hormone which is usually produced by the
human body. This bioidentical hormone can then be administered by injection, orally,
or commonly as a topical cream.
When a woman is menopausal, perimenopausal or post-menopausal, the body
slows down and eventually ceases its production of certain hormones. This is
natural, as it is in preparation for these hormones not being needed by the body as
the woman passes child-bearing age. However, this change in hormone levels can
also have other, undesirable effects on the body. These can leave the woman feeling
depressed, irritable and with hot flushes, insomnia and sweats amongst other things.
Natural hormone replacement therapy can be used to counteract these effects by
giving the body back these hormones. However, natural hormone replacement
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therapy is not a required treatment for women going through the menopause and is
totally optional.
What can natural hormone replacement therapy be used for?
Natural hormone replacement therapy is used primarily for women who are
menopausal, perimenopausal or post-menopausal, though some pharmaceutical
companies are also claiming that these hormones can be used for anti-aging effects
and for treatment of age-related diseases.
Is natural hormone replacement therapy an effective form of therapy?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States has warned a number
of pharmaceutical companies about their claims that natural hormone replacement
therapy can be used for anti-aging effects and treatment of age related diseases, as
there is no medical proof of such claims.
There are advantages to using natural hormone replacement therapy over
conventional hormone therapy. Some synthetically produced hormones can have
carcinogenic properties and the study referred to above by the WHI found positive
results with bio identically produced hormones over synthetically produced ones.
However, it is generally considered that there needs to be more research conducted
into the effectiveness and safety of this therapy.
Are there any known side effects with natural hormone replacement therapy?
Any kind of hormone replacement therapy appears to have risks and side-effects,
although contrarily not taking any sort of hormone replacement also appears to have
risks too, as it can lead to depression and dementia.
If you are considering natural hormone replacement therapy, you would be best
advised to discuss your options and potential side effects with your doctor.
Where can you find further information on natural hormone replacement
therapy?
Information on the FDA website regarding the menopause and hormones
National Research Center for Women and Families article on HRT
Womens Health website section on HRT
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Naturopathy
What is naturopathy?
Naturopathy is also known as naturopathic medicine, and it is an alternative healing
system which promotes self-healing.
Naturopathy is not a therapy in itself but includes a range of other alternative
medicine therapies which use various methods to enable the body to heal itself; a
premise which is central to the idea of naturopathy.
Some believe that the Greek Hippocrates was the first person to suggest the
principal of naturopathic medicine and it has also been used for many hundreds of
years as part of ayurveda, ancient Indian medicine, and within the Nature Cure of
Europe movement.
Modern day usage of naturopathy began in the 1880s with the Scottish doctor
Thomas Allinson, whilst in the United States the early 1900s saw popularity in
naturopathy increasing until the 1930s, when it went into decline.
Although it is practised in many countries around the world, it is accepted in some
but criticised in many too. There are six schools now teaching naturopathy in North
America and three recognised courses in the UK.
How does naturopathy work?
Naturopathy works in various ways depending on exactly which form of therapy is
being used. The underlying principle is the belief that all humans have the ability to
heal themselves and that illness is a result of environmental factors. By using various
forms of therapy as a type of assistance, it is possible to get the body to respond,
and in a sense kick-start it, into healing itself.
Some therapies considered to fall under the naturopathy classification include:
hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, homeopathy, herbalism and acupuncture. All of these
therapies have their own entries where the way they work is described in more
detail.
What can naturopathy be used for?
This will depend to a certain extent on the type of therapy being used. But as stated
above, the main principle is to aid the body to heal itself. Therefore, this would
suggest that there are no limitations to what naturopathy can be used to treat.
Is naturopathy an effective form of therapy?
Again, the effectiveness of naturopathy will depend on the type of therapy being
used. However, naturopathy is considered to be an alternative form of medicine and
faith in its effectiveness is questioned by the conventional medical world.
For further discussion on this, see some of the links below.
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Are there any known side effects with naturopathy?
Whether there are any side effects associated with naturopathy will depend on
exactly which form of therapy is being used, so please see the individual entries.
Where can you find further information on naturopathy?
Pro naturopathy:
UK General Council and Register of Naturopaths
North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners
Against naturopathy
Naturopathy: A Critical Analysis
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Neuro Cranial Reconstruction Therapy

What is neuro cranial reconstruction therapy?
Neuro cranial reconstruction or neuro cranial restructuring therapy is a manipulative
type of treatment which is said to re-align and restore the shape of the skull and also
to rehydrate the brain.
Neuro cranial reconstruction is purportedly effective with treating a great many
conditions because of the links between the head, spine and rest of the body. It is
believed that by using the correct manipulation, neuro cranial reconstruction can free
the body of headaches and of conditions such as Alzheimers disease, dyslexia and
glaucoma to name just a few.
Neuro cranial restructuring is a relatively new form of therapy and as such is not
frequently practised around the world. Most practitioners are in the United States,
though there are also several in Australia.
How does neuro cranial reconstruction therapy work?
Neuro cranial reconstruction works by freeing connections between the tissues in the
head. These are connections which have fused together as a result of some kind of
trauma, for example, a car accident or a sporting injury, or may just be connections
which happen over time as we age. When these tissues are connected, it is believed
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that long-term problems occur as a result. Hence freeing these connections allows
our body to perform at its peak and rids us of other ailments and conditions.
The patient is specially positioned according to what area is being treated. Next a
small balloon, called an endonasal balloon is inserted into the nostril and quickly
inflated then removed. Treatments are usually conducted four days in a row and four
treatments may be enough, or more may be required depending on what is being
treated.
What can neuro cranial reconstruction therapy be used for?
One of the most commonly treated conditions with neuro cranial reconstruction is
headaches and migraines. But it is said that this therapy can treat a huge number of
other conditions, and can also be used in place of facial plastic surgery because of
the effects it has on re-shaping the face.
Some of the conditions said to be treated with neuro cranial restructuring therapy
include: Alzheimers disease, anxiety, arthritis, attention deficit disorder, cerebral
palsy, depression, concussion and head injuries, glaucoma, insomnia, osteoporosis,
Parkinsons disease, sinusitis, snoring, strokes and whiplash though there are also
many more.
Is neuro cranial reconstruction therapy an effective form of therapy?
Being a relatively new form of therapy which is not practised widely around the
world, there has so far been little research into the effectiveness of neuro cranial
restructuring therapy.
Practitioners do claim to have experienced quite staggering results. But without
medical evidence and properly conducted tests, there is much scepticism about the
effectiveness of neuro cranial reconstruction therapy in the mainstream medical
world.
Are there any known side effects with neuro cranial reconstruction therapy?
There are no known side effects with neuro cranial reconstruction therapy.
Where can you find further information on neuro cranial reconstruction
therapy?
Medfinds website definition of neuro cranial reconstruction therapy
NCRDoctors.com
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Neuro Emotional Technique

What is neuro emotional technique?
Neuro emotional technique, or NET, is a psychotherapeutic alternative form of
therapy which is based on the idea that emotional and behavioural problems are
linked to physical conditions within the body. Hence, by addressing one problem you
are also addressing another.
NET was developed by a chiropractor named Dr Scott Walker in the early 1980s. Dr
Walker was looking for a form of therapy which he could use alongside chiropracting
as a stress reduction technique, in order to give his patients a fuller form of
treatment.
Dr Walker used Applied Kinesiology (AK) (Kinesiology has its own entry with further
information about this form of therapy) and adapted AK by utilising the link between
the muscles and the emotions.
How does neuro emotional technique work?
NET therapy works on the assumption that emotional or psychological problems can
be subconsciously held within the muscles of the body. For example, if we are afraid
of something, our bodies will react by tensing the muscles, even though this reaction
may be totally subconscious and hence we are not really aware of doing this action.
NET therapy seeks to identify how the body is reacting to certain feelings and
emotions and to de-tune the body, so that it disassociates the reaction. In this way,
when we are presented with the same fear, our body does not react in the same way
and our fear is no longer felt.
Treatment is based on the same key points of the body and meridians as used in
traditional Chinese medicine. Hence by identifying the problem, the correct point can
be tapped and the emotion can be released.
What can neuro emotional technique be used for?
NET therapy is primarily used as a stress reduction technique, though it can also be
used for a variety of other psychological conditions such as fear and anxiety,
depression and emotional trauma.
Is neuro emotional technique an effective form of therapy?
There have been several case studies into the effectiveness of neuro emotional
technique therapy, which have shown positive results when treating emotional
stresses.
Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of neuro emotional
technique therapy with a wider number of psychological conditions though.
Are there any known side effects with neuro emotional technique?
There are no known side effects with neuro emotional technique therapy.
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Where can you find further information on neuro emotional technique?

PsychNet UK article on neuro emotional technique therapy
NetMindBody
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Neuro Linguistic Programming

What is Neuro Linguistic Programming?
Neuro Linguistic Programming is often shortened to simply NLP, and is an
alternative form of psychotherapy based on language and communication to support
self and personal change. NLP was developed by a linguist, John Grindler, and a
mathematician, Richard Bandler, in the 1970s, when they aimed to determine
patterns between behaviour and communication. Their work was based on that of
three successful and popular psychotherapists Virginia Satir, Fritz Perls and Milton
H. Erickson.
Since its early development as an alternative form of psychotherapy, Neuro
Linguistic Programming became more popular in the 1980s and a number of studies
were performed, though some results meant that its popularity again diminished.
Today, as a form of psychotherapy, it is still considered by many to be alternative,
and by some to be pseudoscience. It has again grown in popularity over recent years
as a tool for business communication and in management and sales, as well as in
sports and for inter-personal and life coaching. This is very much because of the fact
that it is such an accessible form of therapy.
How does Neuro Linguistic Programming work?
Neuro Linguistic Programming does not diagnose or treat mental or behavioural
issues as most forms of psychotherapy do. Rather it is interested in how clients
perceive themselves and self-perceived problems that they have. Hence it is more of
a therapeutic form of therapy rather than a psychotherapeutic one.
The techniques used in Neuro Linguistic Programming do vary from practitioner to
practitioner. But the general techniques include terms known as anchoring,
reframing, rapport and Swish and may also involve forms of hypnosis. Generally
though, Neuro Linguistic Programming works by re-programming our minds and
bodies.
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What can Neuro Linguistic Programming be used for?

As mentioned above, Neuro Linguistic Programming has grown in popularity again
over recent years as a form of alternative therapy and is quite commonly used by life
coaches and for business development. It is also quite commonly used to treat
addictions and phobias and for personal development, for relationships and for
enhanced sports performance.
Is Neuro Linguistic Programming an effective form of therapy?
Opinion is divided as to the effectiveness of Neuro Linguistic Programming. Some
studies conducted in the 1980s did not find adequate empirical evidence and hence
interest in the therapy dwindled. Today, it is more readily recognised as an
alternative therapy rather than psychotherapy, as it was initially intended. Because of
this, and because there is so little evidence to support its claims, Neuro Linguistic
Programming is considered by many in the world of psychotherapy to be a
pseudoscience.
Are there any known side effects with Neuro Linguistic Programming?
There are no known side effects with Neuro Linguistic Programming.
Where can you find further information on Neuro Linguistic Programming?
Wikipedia entry on Neuro Linguistic Programming
The Association of Neuro Linguistic Programming
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on Neuro Linguistic Programming
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Neurofeedback Therapy
What is neurofeedback therapy?
Neurofeedback therapy is sometimes also referred to as neurotherapy,
neurobiofeedback or as neurofeedback training. It is a type of therapy which uses a
form of real-time feedback on the clients brainwave activity which can be used for a
variety of forms of therapy.
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Neurofeedback therapy has its origins in the 1920s when a German psychiatrist,
Hans Berger, discovered that the brain emits small electrical currents.
This became the first use of electroencephalography (commonly abbreviated as
EEG), and Berger wrote a number of reports on his findings over the next few years.
But it was not until the 1960s that neurofeedback therapy began to become popular.
An article by Joe Kamiya was published following experiments he had conducted
which showed that by use of EEG machines, clients could be trained to control the
output of their alpha waves from the brain.
The concept has been developed further over recent years as it is believed that this
form of therapy may be useful for the treatment of conditions such as alcoholism and
other addictions, for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and for
attention deficit disorder.
How does neurofeedback therapy work?
A client is connected to an EEG machine so that a diagnosis can be made as to their
problems. This also provides a visible record which can be used to determine in later
sessions whether progress has been made.
Once the clients problems are determined, a particular form of therapy can be
chosen by the practitioner to best suit the condition.
Often the therapy will be based on reward. This means that good brainwave activity
will be rewarded in some way, whereas bad brainwave activity will not be, or may
be punished.
In this way, the client can be trained to change or self-regulate their brainwaves and
in so doing, they are, in effect, changing themselves psychologically and correcting
their problems.
What can neurofeedback therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, neurofeedback therapy is being used in a number of situations
including for the treatment of addictions, for attention deficit disorder (ADD) and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), for sleep disorders, epilepsy,
psychopathic offenders and for dysphoric disorders.
Is neurofeedback therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has been a fair amount of research into the effectiveness of neurofeedback
therapy when used for a number of different conditions and generally results appear
to be positive.
The highest use of neurofeedback therapy is currently as treatment for ADD and
ADHD.
Are there any known side effects with neurofeedback therapy?
There are no known side effects with neurofeedback therapy.
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Where can you find further information on neurofeedback therapy?

The Biofeedback Foundation of Europe
EEG Info What is neurofeedback?
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Neuromodulation Technique
What is neuromodulation technique?
Neuromodulation technique therapy is an alternative form of therapy based on the
theory that our bodies have the ability to heal themselves, and that illness is as a
result of imbalances in our bodys unique healing processes.
Neuromodulation technique therapy aims to identify where the imbalances are, and
to prompt the body into correcting them and hence begin a process of healing.
The technique was developed in 2002 by Dr Leslie Feinburg, an American doctor,
who based his research of the past 20 or so years on various energy-based
medicines from around the world, such as Chinese acupuncture. By merging ancient
healing techniques with modern medicine he developed neuromodulation technique
therapy.
How does neuromodulation technique work?
Neuromodulation technique therapy uses muscle response testing to determine
what and where the problems lie within the body. Once the problems have been
discovered, the client will be asked to perform certain breathing exercises whilst the
practitioner gently taps the relevant vertebrae on the spine. This process is said to
reset the immune system which can over time malfunction.
What can neuromodulation technique be used for?
Because neuromodulation technique therapy is said to target the bodys immune
system, there is probably no boundary as to what this therapy can be used to treat.
According to the NMT website: Neuromodulation technique often produces
instantaneous, and profound results in cases of virtually all forms of illness that are
provoked by faults in the function of the autonomic control system.
As a non-invasive and non-manipulative form of therapy it can be used on people of
all ages and conditions as it is not a painful procedure.
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Is neuromodulation technique an effective form of therapy?
As a relatively new and alternative form of therapy, there has been little unbiased
study and research into the true effectiveness of neuromodulation technique therapy.
Therefore it is difficult to say whether or not this is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with neuromodulation technique?
There are no known side effects with neuromodulation technique therapy.
Where can you find further information on neuromodulation technique?
NMT Neuromodulation Technique website
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Nutritional Therapy
What is nutritional therapy?
Nutritional therapy is considered to be an alternative form of medicine, despite the
fact that it is widely recognised throughout the medical world that good nutrition and
diet is crucial for health and wellbeing.
However, nutritional therapy remains as an alternative form of medicine because it
cannot replace pharmaceuticals in treating specific illnesses. So the medical world is
keen that patients do not only follow a nutritional form of therapy when they can get
faster and possibly more effective treatment for their condition.
Nutritional therapy is based on the idea that personal well-being and illnesses are
directly affected by the diets we consume, and that through consultation with a
nutritional therapist we can get the body back on track, so that it is able to fight
disease effectively on its own.
How does nutritional therapy work?
Nutritional therapy is a very individual form of therapy, taking into account that no
two people are the same; each therapy session will be designed specifically for each
individual.
A treatment plan will be formulated once the therapist has a detailed background on
the client and this may involve using other alternative medicine diagnostic tools, such
as Kinesiology (which has its own entry where you can find further information).
Often the therapist will provide a whole system approach in that they do not only
advise on nutrition, but can offer advice and recommendations as to how to avoid
allergens, how to help digestion and on natural detoxification.
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What can nutritional therapy be used for?

Nutritional therapy can be used to promote general well-being and good health as a
programme of disease limitation, or to specifically target an illness. Often digestive
and colon problems may be treated with nutritional therapy.
In addition, nutritional therapy is becoming recognised as important in the treatment
of children with behavioural and weight problems, such as autism, dyslexia and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) which are often attributed to bad diet.
Is nutritional therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, although good nutrition is recognised by the medical world as
very important for good health and well-being, it is still considered to be an
alternative form of medicine. This means that the medical world would not
recommend that nutritional therapy be used solely as a form of treatment, but more
as a complementary form of treatment, alongside conventional medical practises.
Are there any known side effects with nutritional therapy?
When consulting with a trained nutritional therapist there should not be any side
effects with nutritional therapy, except for minor side effects which are as a result of
the changes taking place within your body.
Where can you find further information on nutritional therapy?
Nutritional Therapy Council
Nutritional Therapy Association
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O
Occupational Therapy
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy is the provision of a service to people who are usually
disadvantaged in some way due to physical or mental disabilities. They may be
unable to participate in everyday routines which most able bodied people would take
for granted.
Occupational therapy is the promotion of health and wellbeing through occupation.
However, this does not necessarily mean occupation as in a job, but rather enabling
people to participate in everyday activities so that the person can lead a more
fulfilling, meaningful and satisfying life.
Occupational therapy was developed at different times throughout the world in the
United States the first professional body was established in 1917, whilst in the United
Kingdom the first association was formed in 1932 when the Scottish Association of
Occupational Therapists was established. There are now many associations around
the developed world and it is considered to be an important form of therapy for
people of all ages.
How does occupational therapy work?
Occupational therapy works by assisting people to make the most of their lives. This
can happen in many different ways as occupational therapy is tailored to the
individual depending on what their specific needs are.
For example, according to the British Association for Occupational Therapists, an
occupational therapist may do the following:
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give advice on how the home or workplace environment can be changed (for
example, ensuring wheelchair ramps are installed)
help people to learn new ways of doing things (for e.g., teaching someone
with reduced stamina how to conserve energy when performing daily
activities)
adapt materials or equipment (for example, adjusting a knife for someone
after they have lost hand dexterity)
consult in schools to help children overcome writing difficulties and other
learning challenges
assist an ageing couple to care for one another in their own home
help someone suffering from depression to return to the workplace
travel to developing countries or war-torn regions to set up rehabilitation
programmes
work with disadvantaged groups, for example the homeless, in their own
community
What can occupational therapy be used for?

Occupational therapy may be used with people of all ages and backgrounds who
may have been born with a disability, be it mental or physical, or people who have
suffered a disability as a result of an accident or from a war injury. In addition,
occupational therapy is simply used to assist the elderly who may find it more difficult
to perform certain daily tasks as they grow older and frailer.
Is occupational therapy an effective form of therapy?
Occupational therapy is recognised as an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with occupational therapy?
There are no known side effects with occupational therapy.
Where can you find further information on occupational therapy?
British Association of Occupational Therapists/College of Occupational Therapists
World Federation of Occupational Therapists
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Ortho-Bionomy Therapy
What is ortho-bionomy therapy?
Ortho-bionomy is an alternative form of therapy developed by a British osteopath
named Dr Arthur Pauls in the 1970s. As an osteopath and judo instructor, he wanted
to establish a form of therapy which would encourage the bodys own self-healing
abilities.
Dr Pauls named this process ortho-bionomy as a combination of three words
ortho meaning straight, bio meaning life and nomy meaning the study of.
Ortho-bionomy was first taught in the United States from 1976 and has since been
taught extensively across Europe also. However, because it is considered an
alternative therapy and is based on homeopathic principles, ortho-bionomy has not
become a very mainstream practice.
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How does ortho-bionomy therapy work?

Ortho-bionomy assumes that our bodies can become stuck in unfavourable tension
positions following some kind of trauma or injury suffered. When we suffer an injury,
the body reacts by attempting to immobilise the affected area and to protect it by
putting the muscles or tissues into a tense or spasmodic condition. However, this
reaction can become customary as the body gets used to the new positioning and
can lead to further problems and chronic pain.
Ortho-bionomy works by addressing a combination of both physical structure and
energy flows of the body. The practitioner will establish what the clients preferred
body position is, in other words, the posture at which the person is naturally most
comfortable with. He will then begin the therapy with the aim of releasing the
muscles and/or tissues and hence releasing trapped energy.
This is performed by gently pressing into the correct area of the body and in a sense,
telling the central nervous system what it should be doing.
What can ortho-bionomy therapy be used for?
Ortho-bionomy can be used to treat a number of conditions whether they are
associated with some kind of trauma or not.
These conditions include: headaches and migraines, back ache, general muscular
stiffness, neck pain, arthritis, poor circulation and sports injuries.
Is ortho-bionomy therapy an effective form of therapy?
Because ortho-bionomy is an alternative and somewhat homeopathic form of
therapy, it is not accepted in the mainstream medical world as an effective form of
therapy. However, it may be effective as a complementary form of therapy, though
there has been little research on this.
Are there any known side effects with ortho-bionomy therapy?
There are no known side effects with ortho-bionomy, and if performed by a trained
practitioner there should be no risks involved as the process is a gentle and noninvasive one.
Where can you find further information on ortho-bionomy therapy?
TherapyNet description of ortho-bionomy
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Osteopathy
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is an alternative form of therapy, though it is one of the most recognised
alternative therapies in the world and is often used as a complementary medicine
based on a holistic approach.
The theory behind osteopathy is that the musculoskeletal system of our bodies is
what ultimately affects both our overall health and our susceptibility to disease. It
was developed by an American doctor, Andrew Still, from 1874.
Dr Still was disillusioned with traditional medical practices of the time which he
thought were generally ineffective and barbaric. He developed osteopathy because
he believed that the human body was capable of healing itself and that a physician
should in fact be aiding this process.
Osteopathy began as a holistic approach by encouraging a generally healthy
lifestyle and diet by abstaining from alcohol and drugs and then using manipulative
techniques to improve physiological functioning.
How does osteopathy work?
Dr Still suggested that disease was the effect of our bones being out of place, as this
in turn disrupts blood flow and the nervous system. Hence by using manipulation to
re-place the bones, the normal flow would be restored.
As a holistic approach, an osteopath will treat the whole person in that they will first
have an extensive consultation and a thorough examination. Diagnosis is generally
determined by touch, and treatment is performed in a variety of ways depending on
what is being treated. This may involve deep tissue massage and other forms of
massage, but this therapy is always non-invasive and is designed specifically for the
person being treated.
An osteopathy session may also involve being offered advice on lifestyle issues such
as diet and exercise.
What can osteopathy be used for?
There are many conditions which can be treated with osteopathy therapy, though it is
more generally considered in the present day that these are limited to
musculoskeletal ones such as: muscular aches and pains, tennis elbow, mobility
problems, arthritis, sciatica, asthma, back pain, joint pain, headache and migraine,
problems during pregnancy, sports injuries, and tension and stiffness.
Is osteopathy an effective form of therapy?
Although osteopathy is considered to be an alternative form of therapy, it is generally
accepted for its benefits and is widely used as a complementary therapy to more
conventional medicine techniques.
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Osteopathy is well regulated across the developed world which would suggest that it
is recognised as an effective form of therapy and practitioners are licensed and fully
trained in osteopathy.
Are there any known side effects with osteopathy?
There are no known side effects with osteopathy and when performed by a trained
practitioner, there should be no risks.
Where can you find further information on osteopathy?
General Osteopathic Council
British School of Osteopathy
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Oxygen Therapy
What is oxygen therapy?
Oxygen therapy is the term usually used to describe the long-term use of oxygen
which would be used to aid patients who need more oxygen to be supplied to the
lungs, because their bodies are obstructing the airflow.
It is therefore often used by patients who have severe chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) which, 95 per cent of the time, is as a result of smoking.
How does oxygen therapy work?
If a patient is suffering from COPD they will usually have a problem with hypoxia
which will structurally change their pulmonary system. Using oxygen therapy has
been shown to reverse, to some extent, the effects of hypoxia and hence reduce
mortality rates for patients with COPD. Use of oxygen therapy is very long-term
though, and it is usually recommended for extensive periods every day (such as for
15 hours continuously).
However, certain concentrations of oxygen can also be very dangerous to patients
with COPD, and hence the dangers would be discussed before agreeing on
treatment. See the side effects section below.
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What can oxygen therapy be used for?
In the UK, two thirds of the patients on long term oxygen therapy are receiving
treatment for COPD. Oxygen therapy may also be used for the following conditions:
severe airflow obstruction, cyanosis, polycythaemia, peripheral oedema and
elevated jugular venous pressure.
Is oxygen therapy an effective form of therapy?
A number of studies and clinical trials have been conducted as to the effectiveness
of oxygen therapy. The results have shown that long term oxygen therapy for
patients suffering with COPD have been good in that the therapy has extended their
life. Oxygen therapy has also been shown to be effective in aiding people with other
respiratory problems, such as difficulty in breathing when participating in everyday
exercise.
Are there any known side effects with oxygen therapy?
Oxygen therapy is accepted more for its benefits than for its possible side effects,
though there are risks involved. The main risk is for patients who retain carbon
dioxide and who lose their respiratory drive when given doses of oxygen in a lesser
concentration. However, when a patient is prescribed oxygen therapy, this would be
done in consultation with their doctor and these issues would be addressed at that
time.
Where can you find further information on oxygen therapy?
Wikipedia entry on oxygen therapy
British Medical Journal information on oxygen therapy
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226
P
Panchakarma Therapy
What is panchakarma therapy?
Panchakarma therapy is a form of detoxification which is practised as part of the
ancient Indian medical system, called ayurveda, or ayurvedic medicine.
Panchakarma therapy is becoming more popular in the Western world over recent
years where it may be used as just a one-off form of therapy. However, as part of
ayurveda, panchakarma therapy should be performed on a regular basis as a
method of prevention and treatment for a multitude of illnesses.
The main theory behind panchakarma therapy is that it can prevent the accumulation
of toxins (called doshas) within the body. It is believed that it is the accumulation of
these toxins that causes disease and bad health.
How does panchakarma therapy work?
Panchakarma means five actions. Hence there are five parts to panchakarma
therapy which are selected according to the needs of the client. These five actions
are: nasal therapy, emesis, purging and two kinds of therapeutic enema.
Panchakarma therapy is performed using special massage oils and massage
techniques and the process lasts far longer than a standard ayurvedic massage
would do. It should be performed by someone specially trained in panchakarma
therapy. There are three treatment stages which would be undergone regardless of
which of the five actions are being used. These three stages are pre-treatment,
primary treatment and post-treatment.
As well as detoxifying the body so as to rid it of disease-causing toxins,
panchakarma therapy also revitalises the tissues and is hence often referred to as a
rejuvenation therapy.
What can panchakarma therapy be used for?
As previously mentioned, panchakarma therapy should be used as a general
detoxification of the body so as to rid the body of diseases, and when used on a
regular basis it should also aid the body in preventing future diseases too. Therefore
it would appear that there are no limits to what panchakarma therapy can be used
for.
Is panchakarma therapy an effective form of therapy?
Panchakarma therapy has been used for thousands of years as part of the ancient
Indian ayurvedic medicine system. It is only more recently being used in the Western
world and is hence considered to be an alternative form of medicine.
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As an alternative medicine, little or no study has been done as to its effectiveness
and the opinion in the medical world is generally one of scepticism.
Are there any known side effects with panchakarma therapy?
There are no known side effects with panchakarma therapy.
Where can you find further information on panchakarma therapy?
Wikipedia entry on panchakarma therapy
The Ayurvedic Institute panchakarma page
The Hale Clinic panchakarma therapy
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Past Life Regression Therapy

What is past life regression therapy?
Past life regression therapy is a form of therapy which may be undertaken in an
attempt to address a number of psychological or psychosomatic problems, though it
is also sometimes used for spiritual reasons and by people who are simply curious.
Past life regression therapy was first studied in the 1950s by a number of
psychologists and psychiatrists who researched the therapy and its benefits. And
interest in the subject has remained quite high in the UK, the US and Australia.
Some of the key people in this field include Alexander Cannon, Denys Kelsey, Morris
Netherton and Edith Fiore.
More recently, past life regression therapy is now being integrated with current life
regression when it is called simply regression therapy, and the two psychologists
most notably linked with this area are Andy Tomlinson and Hans Ten Dam.
How does past life regression therapy work?
Past life regression therapy would usually be conducted by a trained hypnotherapist
and works by inducing a state of hypnosis in the client and then guiding them into
exploring a past life or lives.
As a form of therapy, as opposed to using it for recreational purposes, clients who
have been successfully treated with past life regression therapy will recount events
and perhaps names and places. However, past life regression therapy is not
necessarily the client remembering past life memories. It is in fact recognised that
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often what is being narrated by the client is actually just from their own imagination.
But whether it is real or not, this form of therapy has succeeded where others have
not.
What can past life regression therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, past life regression therapy is often undergone by people who
are simply curious as to whether they had a past life and what it was. When
performed in this capacity, it is not a therapy as such but may be more of a spiritual
experience.
In terms of use for therapeutic purposes, past life regression therapy is used to help
people who are suffering from psychological or emotional problems and would be
used alongside or in place of more conventional forms of psychotherapy.
Is past life regression therapy an effective form of therapy?
Studies have shown that the use of past life regression therapy has been remarkably
effective as a therapeutic tool in treating clients who have previously shown little or
no improvement when using other forms of therapy. In addition, improvement has
often been very fast, dramatic and permanent in that the client has not had a
relapse.
Scepticism is quite high as to whether clients are actually experiencing a past life or
whether it is just the product of their imagination. However it does not really matter
whether it is real or not if the therapy produces effective results.
Are there any known side effects with past life regression therapy?
Generally, past life regression therapy is considered to be a safe form of therapy.
However, some researchers have raised concerns about risks whereby a previous
personality discovered in the regression has not gone away, or the client has come
out from the hypnosis in an altered state.
Where can you find further information on past life regression therapy?
Hypnotic Regression to Previous Lives by the researcher Dr Ian Stevenson
Past Life Regression Directory of UK Therapists
International Board for Regression Therapy
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Phage Therapy
What is phage therapy?
Phage therapy, sometimes known as biocontrol (as in phage-mediated biocontrol
of bacteria) is a somewhat experimental form of therapy which uses bacteriophages
to treat pathogenic bacterial infections.
Phage therapy has been used fairly extensively for nearly a century in some Eastern
European countries. But the therapy is yet to become commonplace in Western
Europe and the rest of the developed world for the treatment of humans, as opposed
to in veterinary science and agriculture.
Bacteriophages were discovered by Frederick Twort and Felix dHerelle in 1915 and
1917 and because this was prior to the discovery of antibiotics there was much
recognition of the importance of this discovery.
The first Phage Therapy Institute was established in the city of Tbilisa in Georgia, in
1926 and from the 1940s, Russia began to undertake extensive research and
development in this field too.
Also during the 1940s, commercialisation of phage therapy began. But when
antibiotics were discovered in 1941, these became the preferred method of
treatment and hence interest in phage therapy in the Western world diminished.
Development and use of phage therapy has continued throughout this period in both
Russia and Georgia where it is commonly used today. However, in the Western
world there are no authorised forms of phage therapy for use on humans, although it
is being used for killing food poisoning bacteria.
Despite this current situation, there is now renewed interest in phage therapy
because of the build-up of so much human resistance to antibiotics, and hence
phage therapy is again being considered as an alternative.
How does phage therapy work?
In basic terms, phage therapy works by cultivating phages on bacteria this is a
natural process which occurs with time.
Phages are bacterium specific, which means that each type of bacteria will cultivate
a specific type of phage, and this in turn means that potentially any type of bacteria
can be used and cultivated. There is hence the potential for treating all manner of
infections.
Usually application is not given by injection, as better results are achieved orally or
topically. Once the phages are inside the body, they search for the bacteria specific
to their make-up and kill it.
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What can phage therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, following the basic premise that phages can be cultivated on
bacteria, it would appear to indicate that there are no limits to what phage therapy
could be used for. If a new type of bacteria is discovered, then there seems to be no
reason why phages could not be cultivated.
Phage therapy can be used for spraying on certain food types to eliminate bacteria
present on foods and is also used in veterinary and agricultural medicine.
It is important to remember that at this stage in time, phage therapy is not used or
licensed in most of Europe or the USA for use on humans.
Is phage therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned, phage therapy is only recently being considered again as an
alternative to antibiotics and hence it is early days in terms of research. Research
which has been conducted to date does appear to show positive outcomes.
Phage therapy has been used in Georgia for nearly a century and about half a
century in Russia. The fact that this is a form of therapy which is still used today
would seem to indicate that it is effective. Time will tell whether phage therapy
becomes the norm in the Western world.
Are there any known side effects with phage therapy?
Despite the somewhat off-putting process which is used in the production of phages,
phage therapy is actually a quite safe form of therapy.
It is reported that phage therapy can actually be safer and have fewer side effects
than traditional antibiotics.
Phage therapy is also potentially faster acting than antibiotics and because they are
bacteria-specific, they can target infection more easily than antibiotics.
Where can you find further information on phage therapy?
Rowland Institute at Harvard Research article on phage therapy
Wikipedia entry on phage therapy
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Photo Therapy
What is photo therapy?
Photo therapy is sometimes used as part of wider range of counselling or behaviour
therapy which uses photography as a means for the client to explore their deepest
feelings.
Practitioners say that while looking at snapshots, their clients create the meaning
that they think is coming from the photo. Thus this is a subjective judgement which
gives the therapist helpful information about what the client thinks of themselves and
how they see themselves within the context of their life and their relationships with
others.
How does photo therapy work?
Photo therapy works by using lots of different techniques around photos and
photography.
Sometimes existing or old photos that the client has in their collection or album are
reflected upon and studied, and the client expresses their feelings about them to the
therapist. At other times, new photographs are posed for and taken to reflect a new
narrative, reached by counselling, about the clients life.
Clients are encouraged to use todays technology to play with the photos, to revisualise a new and more positive narrative for them, to re-set them into a new life
story, and integrate them into other art therapy creative projects and or even set
them into an animated dialogue with other photos.
By using all these different ways of playing with photographs, its thought that the
client can let go of unhelpful ways of seeing themselves and begin to visualise
themselves in a healthier light.
What can photo therapy be used for?
Photo therapy is thought to be particularly good for emotional health issues to do
with bereavement or loss, divorce, feeling socially or culturally marginalised due to
race, disability or special needs, or behaving in an inappropriate way in social
situations due to misreading body language and non-verbal clues.
Its also used as a tool in diversity training, conflict resolution and divorce mediation.
Is photo therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned, behavioural psychotherapists find photo therapy to be a useful form of
therapy when used in conjunction with other therapies. For this reason, it is difficult
to assess how effective photo therapy is, taken in isolation from other therapies that
are used in a treatment.
There is no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of photo therapy in itself, partly
for the same reason. But practitioners of it report positive results with their clients in
an anecdotal way.
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Are there any known side effects with photo therapy?
There are no known side effects with photo therapy.
Where can you find further information on photo therapy?
Photo Therapy Centre
Photo Therapy book by Judy Weiser, R.Psych., A.T.R.
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Photodynamic Therapy
What is photodynamic therapy?
Photodynamic therapy is a form of medical technology and treatment for cancer
which has its background in the early 1900s, though it has only recently come to be
recognised as a feasible form of therapy.
When the technique was first used by German physician, Friedrich Meyer-Betz in
1913, it was known as photoradiation therapy. Meyer-Betzs studies were expanded
upon by the work of others around the world, including American Thomas Dougherty.
The therapy was renamed photodynamic therapy when it was realised that the term
radiation, which had formerly been used, was producing negative associations. The
product manager of a medical equipment company, John Toth, came up with the
new name and wrote the first White Paper on the therapy. In 1986, Thomas
Dougherty started the International Photodynamic Association.
How does photodynamic therapy work?
Photodynamic therapy works by using three essential components: a
photosensitiser, light and tissue oxygen.
A photosensitiser is a chemical compound which is given to the patient. During
treatment, this compound is set into an excited state by a particular light which is
directed to the tissues which are being treated. There are different levels of excited
states, though during one of these levels the photosensitiser will come into contact
with oxygen molecules and create a reaction, the result of which is called a singlet
oxygen. This type of oxygen then reacts very quickly with biomolecules in its vicinity
and destroys them.
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After treatment, the area of exposed skin will scab over within a few days and flake
away, and within just a few weeks the skin is completely healed. For large
malignancies, several treatments may be required.
What can photodynamic therapy be used for?
Photodynamic therapy is used for the treatment of malignancies, usually which are
on the skin or just below the skin. Studies are being conducted as to the use of
photodynamic therapy for other cancers too. But generally, and for the time being,
photodynamic therapy is not effective below one centimetre under the skin, simply
because the light source cannot penetrate any further than this.
Photodynamic therapy is also beginning to be used for treating acne and for
psoriasis, as well as being an approved form of treatment for wet macular
degeneration (which can cause blindness).
Is photodynamic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Photodynamic therapy is recognised as being an effective form of therapy for the
treatment as described above for skin, and just below the skin, malignancies.
Because of the limitations of the light needed to activate the photosensitiser
compound, generally, at this time, photodynamic therapy is not effective with
malignancies which are any lower than the one centimetre below the skin mark. It
has also been found that photodynamic therapy is not as effective in treating large
tumours.
Are there any known side effects with photodynamic therapy?
Generally photodynamic therapy is a safe form of therapy for the treatment of skin
cancers. However, there are a few minor side effects. Firstly, the area which has
been treated will commonly be painful after treatment, and secondly, the patient will
be told to avoid excessive exposure to the sun for a period of time after treatment.
Where can you find further information on photodynamic therapy?
Cancer Research UK press release on photodynamic therapy
National Cancer Institute (US) photodynamic therapy FAQs
Wikipedia entry on photodynamic therapy
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Physical Manipulation Therapy

What is physical manipulation therapy?
Physical manipulation therapy is also sometimes known as joint manipulation. It is
the manipulation of parts of the body in order to produce movement and to stimulate
tissues, and is often associated with synovial joints the most common and most
moveable joints within our body. It is classified as a type of manual therapy.
Physical manipulation therapy is usually used as part of the treatment provided by
physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors. If the therapy is applied to joints
within the spine, then it is more specifically known as spinal manipulation.
How does physical manipulation therapy work?
Physical manipulation therapy uses thrust techniques, in addition to deep tissue
massage in order to re-place joints and soft tissues.
It is often associated with an audible click or pop which occurs within the synovial
fluid of the joint.
Because physical manipulation therapy is not usually practised in isolation, the way
in which it works will depend on the techniques being used and on who is performing
them in other words, whether it is part of physiotherapy or chiropractic therapy.
What can physical manipulation therapy be used for?
Physical manipulation therapy can be used for a range of conditions affecting the
joints.
Generally, the benefits include: temporary relief of musculoskeletal pains, relaxation
of muscles, release of trapped synovial fluids and their associated problems,
reducing the time taken to recover from acute back sprains, temporary increase in
motion, and physiological effects on the central nervous system.
Is physical manipulation therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been a number of studies conducted on physical manipulation therapy
which have looked at how it works and what the risks are with this.
Results have shown there to be a certain amount of effectiveness in this form of
therapy.
Are there any known side effects with physical manipulation therapy?
Because physical manipulation therapy is a type of manipulative therapy, there are
risks involved, especially if treatment is on the spine.
Incidents of side effects are rare, though can include strokes, vertebrobasilar
accidents (VBA), vertebral and rib fractures and cauda equina syndrome, which is
loss of nerve function in the spinal canal. When performed by a fully trained
professional, risks should be very minimal.
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Where can you find further information on physical manipulation therapy?

Wikipedia entry on joint manipulation
Peak Performance article: Joint Manipulation: Is it Safe?
International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapists
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Physical Medicine
What is physical medicine?
Physical medicine therapy is also known as physical medicine and rehabilitation
(PM&R), or simply as physiatry.
Physical medicine therapy deals with the rehabilitation and restoration of optimal
functioning of a person who has been affected by a physical disability.
The term physiatry was first used by Dr Frank Krusen in 1938, though physical
medicine as a practice was being adopted a few years prior to this. The Mayo Clinic,
for example, first had a physical medicine department in 1936.
The practise of physical medicine therapy became more mainstream following World
War 2 when better forms of rehabilitation were sought for the returning injured
soldiers to the United States. And the term physiatry was hence accepted by the
American Medical Association in 1946.
Today, physical medicine therapy is primarily a form of therapy practised within the
United States, though varying forms of this are also practised around the world.
How does physical medicine work?
The primary goal of physical medicine therapy is to enable the patient to function
optimally within the boundaries or limitations of the illness they have, when it is
usually recognised that their particular illness or condition does not have a known
cure.
Therefore, physical medicine therapy recognises that the patient has an incurable
condition. So rather than try to bring the patient back to the state they were in before
this condition, it works with what they have now in order for them to function as well
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as possible within those limitations. The ethos of physical medicine therapy is
therefore to treat the patient, not the disease.
This optimal condition will be brought about by using a number of different
approaches, including physical training and therapeutic exercise, assistive devices,
prosthetics and medications, though obviously which methods are used will vary
according to the patient and their particular needs.
What can physical medicine be used for?
A number of conditions can benefit from the treatment of physical medicine therapy,
including: stroke, sports injuries, traumatic brain injury, musculoskeletal pains,
fibromyalgia, spinal cord injury and amputation.
Is physical medicine an effective form of therapy?
Physical medicine therapy is recognised as being an important and effective form of
therapy for treating the aforementioned conditions.
Are there any known side effects with physical medicine?
There are no known side effects with physical medicine therapy.
Where can you find further information on physical medicine?
BBC h2g2 article on physical medicine and rehabilitation
Wikipedia entry on physical medicine and rehabilitation
Association of Academic Physiatrists
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Physiotherapy
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy (known as physical therapy in the United States) is a programme of
care which is usually specifically designed for the individual, according to their
needs. It will be performed by a trained physiotherapist or by other healthcare
professionals, such as chiropractors or osteopaths.
It is believed that a form of physiotherapy was first practised as long ago as 460 BC
by Hippocrates.
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But it was not until 1894 that it was first recognised as a profession when four
English nurses formed the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Following this, other
countries also introduced their own formal training programmes, including Reed
College in the United States in 1914.
Despite there being little scientific evidence to support the theory behind
physiotherapy, it is commonly practised throughout the developed world as part of
everyday medicine. In the UK, for example, physiotherapy is often administered
within the NHS.
How does physiotherapy work?
Physiotherapy uses a combination of different techniques to produce the desired
effect. This may include massage and/or manipulation, electrotherapy or
hydrotherapy.
It is also quite common for physiotherapy to simply use an exercise programme
whereby the therapist will devise the most suitable exercises for the client to perform
in order to strengthen or repair damaged muscles and tissues.
What can physiotherapy be used for?
Physiotherapy can be used for a wide range of conditions and in different
environments, for example, within the NHS or in private settings. It can also be
useful for people of all age ranges.
The problems usually addressed by physiotherapy include conditions which have
affected the muscles or bones, as well as problems with the heart, circulation and
the lungs.
It is thought to be beneficial for people suffering with arthritis and is very commonly
associated with rehabilitation after an accident or illness.
Is physiotherapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, despite physiotherapy being very frequently practised, there is
actually little scientific evidence as to how effective as a form of therapy it is.
Generally it is accepted as being effective because the techniques which are used
have been in operation over the years, even though any evidence which has been
presented has been unreliable and untrustworthy.
In a survey conducted in the late 1990s, fewer than five per cent of physiotherapists
asked in England and Australia admitted to regularly reviewing scientific literature
regarding practice decisions.
Are there any known side effects with physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy may use massage, manipulative techniques and exercise as a means
to aiding a patients problems.
These techniques themselves are not without risk, but when physiotherapy is
overseen by a trained physiotherapist, there should be no risk of side effects or
dangers.
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Where can you find further information on physiotherapy?

NHS Direct Health Encyclopaedia entry on physiotherapy
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
American Physical Therapy Association
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Phytotherapy
What is phytotherapy?
Phytotherapy is the use of extracts of natural origin for therapeutic value. By natural
origin this could be from plants as well as other living organisms such as fungi.
To a large extent, phytotherapy is simply considered to be just another name for
herbal medicine and is widely thought of as an alternative medicine in the Western
world. However, the term phytotherapy may also be used when discussing the
modern study of medicines from natural sources, known as pharmacognosy.
Pharmacognosy is essentially a recognised form of herbalism which is used very
commonly by pharmaceutical companies to manufacture a variety of different drugs
used in our everyday lives. However, because phytotherapy is largely considered to
be herbal medicine, please read the herbal medicine entry for further information on
how the use of plants in medicine works, what they can be used for, how effective
they are and whether there are any side effects.
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239
Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates, or Pilates Method, is described as a holistic fitness system which was
designed to strengthen the deep torso muscles and to hence provide the firm
support that the spine requires for overall health and body fitness.
Pilates was developed during the First World War by Joseph Pilates in an attempt to
improve rehabilitation for many of the returning soldiers. He originally called this
therapy contrology, because he believed that his method used the mind to control
the muscles, and that mental and physical health are therefore directly combined.
With injured soldiers, he developed a number of movements which encouraged the
strengthening and stretching of important muscles, and later went on to develop
what he called The Pilates Principles which focus on the entire body and include
breathing, concentration, proper alignment and control.
Today, Pilates, as its most commonly known, is practiced by approximately 11
million people around the world and is a hence a very popular form of therapy.
How does Pilates work?
Probably the most common practice of Pilates uses the Pilates Principles of: flowing
movement, breathing, centring, concentration, control and precision. The most
important aspect of Pilates is that the mind and body become merged so that the
body can be used to its greatest advantage and this is done by paying constant
attention to the body and its movements.
Breathing exercises help to purge carbon dioxide from the body and to aid the blood
to become oxygen rich. This helps the muscles and enlivens the cells.
Centring is based on the large group of muscles in the centre of the body, which
Pilates calls the powerhouse, or core. This group of muscles provides the starting
point for the energy required for Pilates exercises.
Concentration is very important for Pilates as it requires very high levels of focus,
whilst control means that the muscles should move in a controlled way so as to avoid
injury and produce the best results.
Finally, precision is the principle that every movement in Pilates has a purpose, and
that by conducting Pilates exercises, it is vitally important that each and every part of
that exercise be completed otherwise the full effect will not be realised.
What can Pilates be used for?
Pilates is commonly used as a general form of exercise for people who want to keep
their body in good shape. It can be used to improve posture and mobility and to
encourage healthy joints. It is often used by athletes as a complementary form of
exercise.
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Pilates is also recognised as providing beneficial exercise to people suffering with a

range of conditions, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and scoliosis.
In addition, Pilates is said to alleviate aches and pains, help the elderly with balance
and coordination and maintain and improve bone density.
Is Pilates an effective form of therapy?
The fact that Pilates is practiced by 11 million people worldwide would tend to
suggest that this is an effective form of therapy, despite the fact it is essentially an
alternative therapy and little research has been conducted into its full effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with Pilates?
There are certain precautions which should be taken, as with any other form of
exercise, and using Pilates has been contra-indicated for pregnant women.
However, if you are training under the guidance of a fully trained Pilates expert, this
form of therapy should be considered safe and without side effects.
Where can you find further information on Pilates?
Pilates Foundation (UK)
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PIP Scans
What are PIP scans?
PIP scans are a process whereby it is believed that a persons aura, or energy field,
can be photographed in order to detect blockages in that field and hence determine
illnesses or problems within the body.
The initials PIP may stand for slightly different words but are used in reference to
the same process. It may be referred to as Polycontrast Image Processing or as
Poly-Contrast Interference Photography.
PIP scans were developed by the biologist Harry Oldfield, in 1989, and are seen as
an alternative form of therapy which does not provide any therapeutic value in itself,
but which aims to diagnose problems so that the client can then decide on a method
of treatment.
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How do PIP scans work?

Unlike Kirlian photography (information regarding this therapy can be found under its
own entry), PIP scans actually do use a form of photography for the scan.
Using a digital video camera, the images are fed into a computer and through a
specially designed software program where they are then interpreted.
Both the client and the practitioner will view the images produced, which are said to
identify blockages in the energy field (or meridians, as they are often referred to),
imbalances and tissue damage. The client is then usually given their own record or
print-out of the images and is provided with a recommendations report.
What can PIP scans be used for?
As already mentioned, the main purpose of PIP scans is to identify problems with the
clients energy field, but not to actually heal those problems. This would indicate that,
assuming PIP scans do work, it could be used to diagnose a large manner of
different conditions.
Are PIP scans an effective form of therapy?
PIP scans are an alternative form of therapy and as such this is not a recognised
form of diagnosis within the medical world.
Medical practitioners would not recommend that you solely rely on this form of
diagnosis if you believe you may be ill or have problems, and that you should visit
your family doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Are there any known side effects with PIP scans?
Because there are no X-rays involved and PIP scans are non-invasive, this is seen
as a totally risk-free and safe form of therapy with no side effects.
Where can you find further information on PIP scans?
Internet Health Library
Centre for Biofield Sciences
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242
Play Therapy
What is play therapy?
Play therapy is a form of therapy generally used with children between the ages of
three and 11. It can be used both as a diagnostic tool and as a therapeutic tool to
help children with emotional, behavioural or mental health problems.
The importance of playing has long been recognised, as has the opportunity to learn
about people and their emotions when they are engaged in play.
Plato, for example, is reported to have stated that you can discover more about a
person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.
Sigmund Freud though, was the first to publish work regarding the therapeutic use of
play in 1909 and in the following years other therapists began to develop the theory.
The model behind modern day non-directive play therapy is credited to Virginia
Axline and her techniques are still used today in training therapists.
How does play therapy work?
The form of play therapy developed by Axline was very much a non-directive
approach. This means that a therapy session is directed by the child and not the
therapist so that, in a sense, the therapist does not have the opportunity to place
ideas into the childs head. Hence what occurs in the session is far more authentic.
A play therapist will also allow the child the potential for self-healing because one of
the techniques of play therapy is to respect the childs own ability to solve his or her
problems.
The play therapist will make use of a toolkit though. This could be all manner of
skills or tools which the therapist makes available during a session in order to be
able to adapt to new situations or problems which might arise.
Tools might include storytelling, art, a sand tray, puppets, masks, clay, music or
dance or a combination of all of these.
Play therapy might be used as a diagnostic tool whereby the therapist will observe
the child at play and make a diagnosis as to what is causing their behaviour.
It can then be used for its therapeutic value because it is recognised that problems
often do not seem to be so bad once they are shared.
Children can have difficulty sharing problems vocally for a number of reasons, and
therefore play therapy gives them an avenue from which to do this.
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What can play therapy be used for?
As discussed, play therapy is generally thought to be useful for children up to about
age 11. As children grow beyond this age, they tend to lose their interest in play and
hence the therapy would not be as useful.
Play therapy can be used to help children who have emotional problems, perhaps as
the result of having suffered some kind of trauma. It can also be used to help
children with behavioural problems and those with mental health problems.
Is play therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has been a great deal of research into the effectiveness of play therapy over
the years, especially since the 1940s.
Research has shown this to be an effective form of therapy for children and
sometimes adolescents, depending on what condition is being treated. More
recently, research is being conducted into whether play therapy is useful for
aggressive behaviour and conduct disorders.
Are there any known side effects with play therapy?
There are no known side effects with play therapy.
Where can you find further information on play therapy?
Play Therapy United Kingdom
British Association of Play Therapists
Association for Play Therapy
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Polarity Therapy
What is polarity therapy?
Polarity therapy is a holistic approach which has its background in ancient Eastern
practises. It is based on the theory that the human body has an energy field which
can become unbalanced and blocked, leading to illness and pain.
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Polarity therapy is an alternative medicine system and, by its own admission, the
bodys energy field is immeasurable. Therefore it is widely considered to be
pseudoscience because there is little or no scientific proof as to its efficacy.
Dr Randolph Stone developed polarity therapy as a result of his interest in energies
and alternative health ideas. He first began to develop the idea between 1947 and
1954, when he published seven books on the subject.
But it was not until the 1970s, when the general publics interest in alternative
medicines began, that his therapy had any real followers.
It is called polarity therapy because it works with the polarised forces, known in
ancient traditions as yin and yang.
How does polarity therapy work?
Polarity therapy uses a holistic approach in that it attempts to address the whole of
the body in its techniques.
Based on the principle that there is a human energy field, practitioners will attempt
to re-balance the field and restore the natural energy flow in order to promote good
health and well-being.
This is done via a number of methods which may include polarity bodywork, polarity
yoga exercises, counselling (encouraging positive thinking) and nutritional guidance.
Sometimes these are more simply referred to as touch, stretching and exercise, diet
and mental emotional process.
What can polarity therapy be used for?
As mentioned, polarity therapy uses a holistic approach to ensure that the whole
body is healthy and therefore it does not concentrate on one or more specific
illnesses or conditions.
Polarity therapys aim is to promote general health and wellbeing.
Is polarity therapy an effective form of therapy?
Polarity therapy is considered by the medical world to simply be another type of
spiritual energy and as such it is considered alternative and pseudoscientific.
Research which has been carried out has been performed mostly by supporters of
polarity therapy and is, therefore, considered not to be objective and hence
unreliable.
There is no medical or scientific proof as to the effectiveness of polarity therapy.
Are there any known side effects with polarity therapy?
Generally there should be no side effects with polarity therapy, although this may
depend on how a client is being treated.
For example, if treatment involves bodywork, there may be a certain amount of
manipulation involved and body manipulation is not without risk.
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Where can you find further information on polarity therapy?

UK Polarity Therapy Association
American Polarity Therapy Association
ivillage.co.uk article on polarity therapy
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Pranic Healing Therapy

What is pranic healing therapy?
Pranic healing therapy is an alternative, energy based healing technique. It uses the
principle that the body is capable of self-healing, and that by increasing the bodys
life force, or vital energy, this healing process can be quickened.
Pranic healing therapy was developed by Grand Master Choa Kok Sui, and the word
pranic comes from the Sanskrit word prana which means life-force. Pranic healing
therapy is a combination of ancient healing techniques which are said to be
combined with more modern concepts and practices. The technique was developed
as a complementary form of medicine
How does pranic healing therapy work?
Pranic healing therapy is a no-touch technique which reputably directs energy at the
bodys energy field. This energy is then absorbed and distributed to the organs and
glands of the body and can repair anomalies within the field.
The technique uses the theory that diseases will first appear as disruptions within the
bodys energy field and that, if left untreated, the disease will move into the physical
body where it can grow and cause further problems. If the disease is treated at the
early stage it can be stopped from entering the physical body.
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What can pranic healing therapy be used for?
Pranic healing therapy is said to be able to treat the whole body as a result of
treating the bodys energy field as it is this energy field which ultimately determines
our health and wellbeing. If the energy field is healthy, the physical body is healthy,
because the body is more able to bring about its ability for self-healing.
This would indicate that pranic healing therapy can therefore be used to treat all
manner of conditions within the body.
Is pranic healing therapy an effective form of therapy?
Pranic healing therapy is an energy-based healing technique, recognised as being
an alternative form of therapy. As such, it is not accepted by the medical or scientific
world as being an effective form of healing.
Practitioners are also keen to state that this is a complementary form of therapy
which should not replace conventional medicine but may be used in conjunction with
it, which would tend to indicate that their belief in it being an effective form of therapy
is limited.
Are there any known side effects with pranic healing therapy?
There are no known side effects with pranic healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on pranic healing therapy?
Pranic Healing.org
Pranic Healing.com
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Primal Therapy
What is primal therapy?
Primal therapy is a type of psychotherapy which aims to resolve repressed pain and
the neurosis which this repressed pain is said to cause. Usually such pain is the
result of childhood trauma, or other very strong and significant events in a persons
life.
Primal therapy was developed by Arthur Janov, PhD, in the mid to late 1960s. And
although this therapy does contain some theories that are widely used in popular
psychotherapy, the major theory behind primal therapy is not widely recognised. In
fact, primal therapy remains a criticised and largely discredited form of
psychotherapy.
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Despite this situation, Janov still practices primal therapy at his own centre in
California, though apart from this it is not widely practised around the world.
How does primal therapy work?
Primal therapy assumes that neurosis is a condition which everybody suffers to
some degree or another and is as a result of (mainly) childhood trauma.
Janov believes that pain was felt from birth, and sometimes pre-birth, and that this
pain becomes compounded as you grow, as certain needs are not met.
Primal therapy aims to not only address these pains, but to re-live and confront
them, as Janov believes that neurosis can only be cured by accessing the lower part
of the brain and the nervous system.
This is in contrast to many conventional psychotherapy techniques, which rely on
talking about problems and hence only accessing the higher reasoning part of the
brain, according to Janov.
What can primal therapy be used for?
Primal therapy was developed with just one condition in mind mental illness and
neurosis. It would appear that this is the only condition that is addressed by this
therapy.
Is primal therapy an effective form of therapy?
There has been a great deal of criticism of primal therapy by supporters of more
conventional psychotherapy types. There are claims that primal therapy can be
dangerous, and because there is a lack of documented proof as to the efficacy of the
therapy, it has been widely discredited.
All of these points would suggest that primal therapy is not an effective form of
therapy.
Are there any known side effects with primal therapy?
There is no evidence of there being any direct side effects with primal therapy,
although several experts in the psychotherapy field have claimed that they believe
primal therapy to be potentially very dangerous.
Where can you find further information on primal therapy?
Dr Arthur Janovs Primal Center
Wikipedia entry on primal therapy
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Prolotherapy
What is prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy may also be referred to as proliferative Injection therapy or
regenerative injection therapy.
It is an experimental form of treatment using non-pharmacological and non-active
irritant solutions which are injected into the body for the treatment of pain and for
strengthening connective tissue around tendons or ligaments.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, a similar treatment was used for the repair of
hernias and to ease jaw pain, though it was not until the 1940s when a Dr George
Hackett fully developed prolotherapy. Dr Gustav Hemwall became a pioneer of the
technique and began studying and treating patients with it from the 1950s until his
death in the mid 1990s.
How does prolotherapy work?
Prolotherapy works by injecting an irritant solution into an area of the body which has
been determined to have weakened or damage connective tissue as the result of an
injury or strain.
The solution comprises many different ingredients and is injected into the joint
capsules or where tendon connects to bone.
It will not necessarily require just one injection, but many in different points may be
needed. Because the solution is an irritant, it prompts the body to fight back by
becoming inflamed and hence begins to repair itself.
What can prolotherapy be used for?
Prolotherapy is generally used for repairing tissue damage and for alleviating
musculoskeletal pains such as back pain, other chronic pains and possibly
conditions like tennis elbow and knee injuries.
Is prolotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Opinion as to the effectiveness of prolotherapy as a form of treatment is divided
because of conflicting evidence.
Dr Hackett reported that in a study of nearly 10,000 patients, over 99 per cent of
them found relief through prolotherapy for their chronic pain.
A study in 2004 though, stated that there was conflicting evidence as to the efficacy
of prolotherapy injections in reducing pain. The evidence pointed to the fact that
when prolotherapy was used alone, it was no more effective than the control (or
placebo) injection. But when used in combination with other treatments, prolotherapy
was more effective.
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Are there any known side effects with prolotherapy?
Studies into the effectiveness of prolotherapy have also recorded several minor side
effects with the treatment, though these were short lived.
Side effects included increased back pain and stiffness, though it is pointed out that
stiffness should be expected anyway as a result of the bodys reaction to the irritant
being injected.
Where can you find further information on prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy.com
Prolotherapy.org
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Provocative Therapy
What is provocative therapy?
Provocative therapy is a type of psychotherapy. It works on a reverse psychology
basis, in which the therapist plays devils advocate and uses such approaches as
humour, exaggeration and irony siding with the negative half of the clients psyche
in an attempt to provoke the client into a response.
Provocative therapy was developed by therapist Frank Farrelly in the 1960s as a
result of becoming disillusioned with poor success rates. Immediately his new
techniques began to see success in clients for which other techniques had failed to
get results. Over the next 17 years, he fine-tuned his techniques within the clinical
setting. In more recent years, provocative therapy has been gaining more interest.
How does provocative therapy work?
Provocative therapy works in the opposite way to most types of psychotherapy.
Rather than siding with the positive side of the clients psyche, the therapist sides
with the negative side. In other words, the therapist appears to ally himself with the
part of the client which makes them think that life is terrible and that nothing is good.
The therapist uses light and warm-hearted humour such as irony, exaggeration, selfdeprecation etc. in an attempt to first sensitise and then desensitise the client, so
that the client is able to see their problems in a cognitive way.
There are five responses which may be provoked in the client. Usually they will
display at least one of these per session. In provocative therapy, the client will
respond in the following ways:
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affirm his self-worth, both verbally and behaviourally

assert himself appropriately both in task performances and relationships
defend himself realistically
engage in psycho-social reality testing and learn the necessary
discriminations to respond adaptively
engage in risk-taking behaviours in personal relationships especially
communicating affection and vulnerability to significant others
What can provocative therapy be used for?

Provocative therapy can be used for a variety of disorders including addictions, low
self esteem, anxiety, procrastination, psychosomatic pain, phobias and panic
disorders, amongst others.
Is provocative therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although provocative therapy has been in development since the 1960s, it is only
recently coming to be realised that this is a viable form of therapy which offers an
alternative to more conventional forms of psychotherapy.
There are a number of case studies available which show the success of provocative
therapy, including those in Farrellys own book titled Provocative Therapy. These
would tend to suggest that provocative therapy is an effective form of therapy,
though there perhaps needs to be further independent study and research into it
before a definite conclusion can be reached.
Are there any known side effects with provocative therapy?
There are no known side effects with provocative therapy.
Where can you find further information on provocative therapy?
Provocative Therapy
Provocative Therapy UK
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Psychic Therapy
What is psychic therapy?
Psychic therapy is a form of alternative therapy which combines ideas from
psychotherapy and spiritual guidance. It is not to be confused with psychic surgery,
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which is a process by which disease is reputably removed from the body just by
using psychic powers.
Psychic therapy encourages positive personal change within people so that they can
enjoy and make use of their lives to their full potential. It may be used in conjunction
with other forms of alternative therapy, if the psychic therapist discovers that
additional problems exist.
How does psychic therapy work?
Psychic therapy is performed by a practitioner who has psychic powers. It is reputed
that the psychic will be able to see your aura, or energy field, and make
determinations about your life, your past and your health and is therefore able to
state whether there are any health issues with the client.
In addition, psychic therapy is seen as a spiritual pathway in which the therapist aims
to guide the client by using principles commonly used in more recognised sessions
of psychotherapy. The psychic part of the psychic therapy is really a different way of
working with the client by playing on their beliefs. In other words, if they believe in
psychic powers, they are more likely to take note of what they are being told about
themselves and how they can make positive changes in their lives.
What can psychic therapy be used for?
As previously mentioned, psychic therapy does not usually specifically address one
issue or condition but is intended as a process from which the client can make
positive changes. It may be though, that the psychic therapist identifies health issues
during the session, and they may recommend other forms of alternative therapy
treatments to treat this particular condition.
Is psychic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Being an alternative therapy technique, psychic therapy is not recognised as being
an effective form of therapy and there has not been any research into its
effectiveness or studies of its efficacy. In the conventional medical world, psychic
therapy would be considered to be a pseudoscience and nothing more.
Are there any known side effects with psychic therapy?
There are no known side effects with psychic therapy.
Where can you find further information on psychic therapy?
Research could not find any general websites or associations of psychic therapy.
Generally the sources of information on the internet are provided by proponents of
psychic therapy and hence will be biased in their information.
If you are interested in finding a psychic therapist, you are recommended to use a
local internet search engine.
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Psychosocial Interventions Therapy

What is psychosocial interventions therapy?
Psychosocial interventions therapy is a type of therapeutic intervention which uses
elements of psychotherapy in order to help a variety of different emotional or
behavioural problems.
Psychosocial interventions therapy is non-pharmaceutical, and the term is used as
an umbrella term to describe various types of intervention, which may include:
cognitive behavioural therapy, psycho-education and skills training which can be
used depending on what is being treated and the individual concerned.
The term psychosocial refers to the individuals psychological development in
response to their social environment. Unlike social psychology, psychosocial
concentrates on the individual and their behaviour rather than society as a whole. It
was first used by psychologist Erik Erikson, who concentrated much of his work on
social behaviours.
How does psychosocial interventions therapy?
Because psychosocial interventions therapy is an umbrella term, it is difficult to
describe exactly how the process works because it varies with what is being treated
and what techniques are being used to treat it.
What can psychosocial interventions therapy be used for?
There are a wide variety of conditions which can be treated with psychosocial
interventions therapy, and further research is being conducted as to its effectiveness
in treating other conditions too.
Psychosocial interventions therapy may be used with people who have mental,
emotional and behavioural problems, though it can be used in more specific settings
as well, such as with victims of disasters and those who have been displaced. In this
instance, it is commonly referred to as psychosocial support.
Psychosocial interventions therapy may also be used in the treatment of people with
drug addictions.
It can also be part of a scheme of care for patients who have been diagnosed with
illnesses such as cancer, as a way of helping them to deal with the changes which
will be occurring in theirs and their familys lives.
Is psychosocial interventions therapy an effective form of therapy?
Generally it would appear that psychosocial interventions therapy is an effective form
of therapy with therapeutic value in a number of situations. Further research is being
conducted all the time to determine exactly what forms of psychosocial interventions
therapy are best for treating the various conditions though.
Are there any known side effects with psychosocial interventions therapy?
There are no known side effects with psychosocial interventions therapy.
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Where can you find further information on psychosocial interventions?

Because psychosocial interventions therapy covers a wider spectrum of therapies
there are no definitive sources for further information on the subject. If you are
interested in finding out more about this therapy in relation to a specific condition,
you would be best advised to use an internet search engine and search specifically
for the parameters you are looking for.
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Psychotherapy
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a fairly broad term used to describe a form of therapy provided by
trained psychotherapists in order to help people with a variety of problems they may
be having in their everyday lives.
Psychotherapy, in the modern sense of the word, first began to be developed in the
early 1900s by theorists such as Sigmund Freud who, previously trained as a
neurologist, began to investigate why people had problems which seemed to have
no organic or biological reason. He theorised that these psychological problems had
developed as a result of childhood experiences and the unconscious mind.
Once this background to psychotherapy was introduced, many other theorists began
developing their own ideas based on Freuds, throughout the following decades.
These theorists included Anna Freud, Carl Jung, Carl Rogers and Alfred Adler who
developed their own approaches.
There are now a huge number of psychotherapies that have been developed as
theorists base their work on other theorists work. Some of the forms of
psychotherapy which are practiced around the Western world today include:
art therapy, autogenic training, behaviour therapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive
analytic therapy, coherence therapy, dance therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques
(EFT), Gestalt therapy, group therapy, music therapy, Neuro Linguistic
Programming, play therapy and rolfing.
But the above is not a complete list.
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How does psychotherapy work?

How psychotherapy works very much depends on which form of psychotherapy is
being used. As you can see from the list above, these psychotherapies mentioned
are all very different and though they may be based on the same fundamental
principles, they will work in different ways. Many of the therapies which can be
classified as psychotherapy may not actually call themselves this, but they do have a
similar aim.
What can psychotherapy be used for?
Again, there will be variations as to what exactly the different forms of psychotherapy
can be used for, though the general aim of psychotherapy is to improve mental
health and wellbeing and this is achieved primarily through some form of
communication. This could be simply talking, or more complex means, such as
expression through play or dance.
Is psychotherapy an effective form of therapy?
It is generally believed that psychotherapy is an effective form of therapy, though
there are some differences of opinion regarding some techniques. Some on the list
mentioned above may be considered to be alternative, and because they are
perhaps a newer form of psychotherapy, there may not be as much evidence as to
their effectiveness when compared to other forms.
Are there any known side effects with psychotherapy?
There are no known side effects with psychotherapy.
Where can you find further information on psychotherapy?
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Wikipedia entry on Psychotherapy
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Pulmonary Therapy
What is pulmonary therapy?
Pulmonary refers to the lungs and respiratory, or breathing, system and comes from
the Latin word pulmonarius which means of the lungs. Pulmonary therapy,
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therefore, includes medical treatment which is designed to help patients maintain,
improve or recover lung functioning which has been affected as the result of an injury
or disease.
Although pulmonary therapy is a commonly used term, there does not appear to be a
specific treatment regime which covers all types of pulmonary conditions. Rather,
pulmonary therapy can include both exercises and medication depending on what
condition is being treated.
How does pulmonary therapy work?
As mentioned above, pulmonary therapy is not just one specific type of therapy but
can cover a number of diseases and conditions which have affected the lungs and
respiration. Hence it is difficult to describe how exactly pulmonary therapy works, as
it will vary.
What can pulmonary therapy be used for?
Pulmonary therapy can be used for a variety of respiratory diseases. The most
commonly treated conditions include cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, asthma, lung cancer, pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension and tuberculosis,
amongst others.
Most often, treatment will involve the use of medication, although surgery may be
necessary, preceded or followed by medication. In cases of severe respiratory
diseases, oxygen therapy may be necessary. You can read how oxygen therapy
works in its own entry.
Is pulmonary therapy an effective form of therapy?
Pulmonary therapy is a very important part of the treatment of the above conditions,
as often without such treatment, the patient may die because they are unable to take
in enough oxygen and excrete enough carbon dioxide.
Are there any known side effects with pulmonary therapy?
The possibility of side effects will vary according to exactly what kind of pulmonary
therapy treatment is being used, and these will be discussed with the doctor prior to
commencing treatment.
Where can you find further information on pulmonary therapy?
For general information about pulmonology, diseases of the lungs and treatments,
go to Wikipedia:
Wikipedia entry on pulmonology
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256
Q
Qigong
What is Qigong?
Qigong is also referred to as Chi Kung or Chi Gung and it is a Chinese therapeutic
practice which involves movement, or movement combined with regulated breathing.
The intended result is for maintaining good health, though it is also used in the
medical profession as well as for spirituality, and as a component of Chinese martial
arts.
Although based on ancient Chinese practises, Qigong really rose to popularity in
China after the death of Mao in 1976, when the Chinese people went Qigong mad!
Qigong has now spread around the world and is practised by millions of people,
although there is debate in different societies as to the actual therapeutic value of
Qigong.
How does Qigong work?
The meaning of Qigong is breath work or energy work. The word is derived from
Qi which means breath, life-force or energy, and gong which means work.
Qigong may involve either breathing regulation or exercise through movement, or a
combination of both methods. These methods may be taught by attending a
workshop, or school, or by using the various media available today such as books
and DVDs.
What can Qigong be used for?
For some practitioners, Qigong is seen from the spiritual standpoint. They believe
that their Qi can be drawn in from the metaphysical world and is then circulated
throughout the body via the meridians (or channels). In this respect, Qigong works
by promoting overall good health and wellbeing, and may also represent spiritual
enlightenment and development.
When considering the medical benefits, opinion is divided. There are those who
believe that Qigong promotes prevention and treatment of diseases and general
health maintenance, as well as prolonged life, by absorbing Qi directed at them by a
Qigong practitioner.
On the other hand, in Western world medical circles as well as within the Chinese
government and many practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine, Qigong is seen
as a health benefit which possibly has additional stress reducing benefits, and other
benefits associated with exercise. Its not, however, seen as an overall disease
prevention and treatment programme.
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Finally, Qigong is used by athletes and martial arts practitioners for building body
strength and power, toughening the tissues, so that they are more able to withstand
blows to them and for increasing stamina.
Is Qigong an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, opinion is divided as to the real therapeutic value of Qigong. It
is however, generally recognised that Qigong is good as a form of exercise and may
be beneficial for encouraging lower stress levels, through the relaxation bought
about by the breathing exercises.
Beyond this, when it is claimed that Qigong draws its power from the metaphysical
world, conventional medical practitioners become sceptical.
Are there any known side effects with Qigong?
There are really no reported side effects with Qigong, though, as with any form of
exercise, caution should be taken.
Where can you find further information on Qigong?
Qigong Institute
UK Taiji Qigong Foundation
Wikipedia entry on Qigong
Skeptics Dictionary entry on Chi Kung
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Quantum Touch Therapy

What is Quantum Touch therapy?
Quantum Touch is an alternative therapy which was developed by Richard Gordon in
the late 1970s, following his experiences with the similar polarity therapy.
Quantum Touch focuses on the bodys life force, called Qi or prana; a concept
which has been used in ancient Eastern traditions for thousands of years. The
therapy is based on the principle that our body has the capacity for self-healing. This
element of Quantum Touch came about when Mr Gordon witnessed a hands-on
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healing session in which a woman was cured of scoliosis. He discovered that this
ability was something that he could also achieve using great concentration and
focus, and began developing Quantum Touch.
How does Quantum Touch therapy work?
In Quantum Touch therapy sessions, the practitioner does not actually heal the
client, as the main point of Quantum Touch is that the client has the ability to heal
themselves. A healing session, therefore, will involve the practitioner aiding and
encouraging the client into their own healing process which includes breathing and
body awareness exercises.
The practitioner does this by focusing and then amplifying life-force energies towards
the client. It is said that what then occurs is as a result of vibration and resonance.
As the practitioner directs the energy field around the part of the body which requires
treatment, the body will vibrate at a higher frequency to match this new resonance
and in so doing will allow the bodys healing process to begin.
What can Quantum Touch therapy be used for?
Because Quantum Touch therapy is said to increase the bodys own ability to heal,
there would appear to be no boundaries as to what Quantum Touch can be used to
treat.
It is stated that Quantum Touch does not claim to heal specific diseases or
conditions. But if the body has the ability to heal itself then it will do so; Quantum
Touch essentially accelerates that process.
Is Quantum Touch therapy an effective form of therapy?
As an alternative form of therapy there has been little research into the effectiveness
of Quantum Touch therapy, and scepticism in the conventional medical world is
therefore very high. Any research that has been conducted was done so by
supporters of the technique and hence cannot be relied upon as it may be biased.
Are there any known side effects with Quantum Touch therapy?
There are no known side effects with Quantum Touch.
Where can you find further information on Quantum Touch therapy?
Quantum Touch website
CHIS UK Quantum Touch courses and workshops
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259
R
Radiation Therapy or Radiotherapy
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy, or radiotherapy as it is also commonly known, is a form of medical
therapy which uses ionising radiation to treat cancer patients in an effort to control
malignant cells. Although the term radiotherapy sounds similar to radiology, the two
should not be confused as radiology is in fact used for medical imaging and
diagnosis, not treatment.
The concept of using radiation for therapeutic means was invented by Wilhelm
Conrad Rontgen, a German physicist, in the late 1800s, and was heavily linked with
the discovery of X-rays in 1895. Rontgen discovered that X-rays had more than one
use and that they could be used as a treatment for cancer.
In the early 1900s, radiation therapy was further investigated, particularly by the
Noble Prize winning scientist Marie Curie who discovered, amongst other things,
radium. Curies work was extremely important for medical advances.
Further advances in this field were made during the latter half of the 20th century
computed tomography, for example, was discovered by Godfrey Hounsfield allowing
radiation to be delivered to patients in a 3D, as opposed to a 2D, manner. This
allowed more accurate delivery and dosage to be made.
Further advancements still have been made in imaging technologies over the past
few decades, which have meant that dosage and delivery have been additionally
improved. This has resulted in fewer side effects being suffered and better treatment
success.
How does radiation therapy work?
Radiotherapy may be used as the primary treatment for cancer, or it may be used
alongside other treatments such as chemotherapy (which you can read about in its
own entry), surgery or hormone therapy.
Radiotherapy is not necessarily used as a cure for cancer though it may be curative.
Other reasons for using radiation therapy are for after surgery in what is called
adjuvant therapy, or before surgery as neoadjuvant therapy. Also it may be used as
a palliative treatment where it is assumed that a cure is not possible, but some relief
and prevention of the cancer spreading can be achieved. Finally, it may be used for
therapeutic treatment when the patient has more chance of survival and possibility of
cure.
There are a number of different methods of treatment using radiation therapy, and
these will depend on the location and type of cancerous cells being treated. The
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methods can be quite complex, so it is suggested that if you are interested in reading
more, then please use the further information links below.
What can radiation therapy be used for?
Radiotherapy is used for treating malignant or cancerous cells, though has other
uses for non-malignant cells, though this usage is limited due to concerns over the
risks of causing cancers through radiation (see possible side effects below).
Non-malignant condition uses include treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (a
neuropathic disorder), severe thyroid eye disease, pterygium, pigmented villonodular
synovitis (a condition which affects the soft tissue of the joints and more), prevention
of keloid scar growth, and prevention of heterotopic ossification (the formation of
bone-like tissue outside the skeleton).
A technique of radiation therapy, called total body irradiation (TBI) is also used for
preparing the body for a bone marrow transplant.
Is radiation therapy an effective form of therapy?
Radiotherapy is recognised as an effective and very important form of therapy for the
treatment, or ease, of cancer in particular.
Are there any known side effects with radiation therapy?
There are a number of side effects which are possible with radiation therapy, and
although methods of treatment have advanced over the years, meaning that
treatment can now be far more focused and accurately dosed, some side effects are
still unavoidable and are expected.
Side effects may be acute, and include: damage to the epithelial surfaces, such as
the skin; damage to the mouth lining, throat, oesophagus and bowel; swelling;
infertility; and general fatigue.
Medium and long term side effects can include: cancer, hair loss, dryness and
fibrosis.
Where can you find further information on radiation therapy?
Cancerbackup
Wikipedia entry on radiation therapy
Radiology Info
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261
Radionic Diagnosis
What is radionic diagnosis?
Radionic diagnosis therapy is more commonly known simply as radionics and is an
alternative healing system based on the concept of subtle energy and the flow of
this from one living organism to another, be they human, animal or plant.
Radionics was developed by Dr Albert Abrams in the early 1900s. He claimed that
he was able to detect energies being radiated from all living things and devised
machinery which, it was claimed, could measure this radiation in the form of
vibrations, and hence determine whether there was disease present.
He then went on to invent a machine which reputably could transmit healthy
vibrations to a sick person or entity and hence return them to a healthy condition.
Various forms of diagnostic machines are still used to this day by practitioners in the
alternative medicine field, in order to diagnose conditions and offer treatment.
How does radionic diagnosis work?
In terms of the actual diagnosis in radionic diagnosis therapy, this is performed with
the help of a diagnostic machine. A drop of blood, or sometimes a strand of hair is
presented to the machine. The frequency at which this sample is vibrating is then
said to be measured by the machine which determines the health of the client.
If this is a machine designed for treatment as well, it will then produce the correct
vibrations to direct back at the client. Once these vibrations are absorbed by the
clients energy field, the body is able to begin a process of self-healing.
What can radionic diagnosis be used for?
There are apparently no limitations to what radionics can be used to treat. Both
chronic and acute conditions, mental health, psychological and emotional issues,
migraines, hay fever and arthritis are just a few of the conditions said to be treated
with radionics therapy.
Is radionic diagnosis an effective form of therapy?
Radionics is largely considered to be pseudoscience. But, because this is an
alternative and energy-based form of therapy, there has been little research
conducted by reputable sources to be able to confirm the effectiveness of radionics
therapy.
Some research has been carried out in the past on the diagnostic machines which
Abrams invented, and it was concluded that these were merely a complicated mass
of wires and electronic parts which actually served no purpose.
Are there any known side effects with radionic diagnosis?
There are no known side effects with radionic diagnosis therapy.
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Where can you find further information on radionic diagnosis?

The Radionic Association of the UK
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on radionics
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Rapid Eye Therapy

What is Rapid Eye Therapy?
Rapid Eye Therapy is also known by a number of other names, including Rapid Eye
Movement Therapy and Rapid Eye Technology.
Rapid Eye Therapy is a form of therapy which promotes emotional release and is
classified as somewhere between an alternative therapy and psychotherapy as it
uses similar principles to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy
(EMDR which has its own entry where you can find further information).
EMDR is a psychotherapy which is used to help resolve the suffering of the
symptoms of a traumatic event, and this is the primary aim of Rapid Eye Therapy
also.
The branch of Rapid Eye Therapy known as Rapid Eye Technology (RET) was
developed by American Ranae Johnson, who from 1966 onwards was looking for
ways to help her autistic son. In 1983, she founded the Rapid Eye Institute in order
to teach RET to others.
How does Rapid Eye Therapy work?
Rapid Eye Therapy works by simulating the state that you would be in when
dreaming and experiencing Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. It is believed that
whilst in this state you are able to access traumatic events and other negative
thoughts and feelings in a way in which you bypass your normal defence
mechanisms. What this means is that you can access these emotions without having
to relive them something which you would generally have to do with other forms of
psychotherapy.
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Once accessed, these emotions are said to be released from the mind and hence we
no longer experience the pain associated with them.
Rapid Eye Therapy is guided by a practitioner, or therapist. He will first attempt to get
you into the REM state, and then give the appropriate commands for the client to be
able to release their traumas and emotions through the rapid blinking of the eyes.
What can Rapid Eye Therapy be used for?
On a general level, Rapid Eye Therapy can be used for people who are suffering
from emotional problems due to traumatic experiences in their lives, and for
releasing negative belief systems which may have become ingrained. Once all of
these issues have been dealt with, the client is said to live a much happier and more
productive life.
Is Rapid Eye Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Research was conducted into the effectiveness of EMDR therapy which looked at
whether the eye movement part of this therapy was actually of necessity. Although
earlier studies reported that eye movements were not necessary, later ones
concluded that eye movement did actually make this therapy more effective.
These results would therefore tend to suggest that there must be some level of
effectiveness with Rapid Eye Therapy, despite the fact that this would not be
conducted by a qualified psychotherapist.
Are there any known side effects with Rapid Eye Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Rapid Eye Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Rapid Eye Therapy?
You may like to read the entry on EMDR which will give some further insight into
Rapid Eye Therapy and how it works.
Rapid Eye Technology
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Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy

What is Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy?
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (or REBT) is a type of psychotherapy which
aims to settle emotional and behavioural problems, using theories developed with
both a philosophical and empirical background.
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Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy is recognised as one of the first forms of
cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and was developed by an American
psychotherapist and psychologist, Albert Ellis, beginning in the 1950s. Initially called
simply Rational Therapy, the name changed to Rational Emotive Therapy in the
1970s, and then to Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy in the mid 1990s.
How does Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy work?
The principle behind Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy is that mental and
emotional problems stem not just from external events i.e. things that directly
happen to, or affect a person but from the way in which they perceive these
events.
So this implies that an event itself is not necessarily a problem, but if the person
perceives it as such, it can be.
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, therefore, aims to change the way in which
people think about themselves with a central objective for that person to
unconditionally accept themselves, others and life with happiness as their ultimate
goal. This is achieved through the ABC Model which Ellis developed:
A something happens
B you have a belief/thought about that situation
C you react in an emotional way as a result of your belief of the situation
What this highlights is that an event (A) does not cause your emotional reaction (C),
but that the way in which you perceive that event (B) causes the reaction (C). Ellis
further concluded that usually the belief (B) is an irrational one, and that this must be
changed to a rational belief in order to find happiness.
What can Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy be used for?
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy can be used in a number of psychotherapeutic
settings.
It can be used as a brief therapy in order to help people who are perhaps suffering
depression or other emotional and mental issues because of an event which has
happened in their lives.
Or it can be used as a form of longer-term therapy for people who have more
underlying mental and/or emotional issues.
Is Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy was not widely accepted when it was
first introduced in the 1950s, it is now stated that it is a widely used, accepted, and
effective form of psychotherapy for reducing emotional pain, and that it is one of the
most widely used therapies in the world.
Are there any known side effects with Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy.
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Where can you find further information on Rational Emotive Behaviour

Therapy?
Association for Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy
Wikipedia entry on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy
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Reality Therapy
What is Reality Therapy?
Reality Therapy is a type of psychotherapy. In contrast to many forms of
psychotherapy, it concentrates on the present and how to make the future better
rather than dwelling on the past, in an effort to allow the patient to take control of
their life.
Reality Therapy was developed mainly by American psychiatrist William Glasser
from the 1960s onwards and provided the background to some of his further work,
called Choice Theory.
Some of the ideas behind Reality Therapy are considered to be controversial by
mainstream psychiatrists, even though this therapy is said to be becoming widely
used in both the US and internationally, as well as being widely applied in education.
How does Reality Therapy work?
Reality Therapy is recognised as a cognitive-behavioural type of therapy because
the premise is to get the patient to become aware of their actions and thoughts, and
hence change them where necessary. The same as the principles of Glassers
Choice Theory, Reality Therapy believes that humans have five essential needs and
that we are always acting on these needs whether knowingly or not. The five needs
are:
1 survival
2 connecting, belonging, love
3 power
4 freedom
5 fun
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A session will not involve discussion of the patients past because the theory behind
Reality Therapy assumes that all human problems stem from unsatisfactory
relationships. Discussion instead centres on the positives and on things that the
patient can do, rather than cant. In this way their physiology and feelings need to be
changed. The therapist will aim to get the patient to reconnect with people and other
things in their lives and will work through a plan in order to make this happen.
What can Reality Therapy be used for?
Reality Therapy may be used in educational settings such as for classroom
management plans and it is stated that this is a quite popular approach in some
schools, which are known as Quality Schools. Besides this use, Reality Therapy is
used in general counselling and therapy for people with a variety of problems,
though often relationship problems and for self development.
Is Reality Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Opinion seems to be divided as to the effectiveness of Reality Therapy.
Psychotherapists who prefer a more analytical look at peoples problems and who
believe problems are rooted in a persons past tend not to favour the Reality
Therapy approach. However, psychotherapists who prefer the cognitive approach
do believe that Reality Therapy is effective.
Whatever the judgement as to how effective Reality Therapy is, there is yet to be
extensive study into its effectiveness, so this remains a difficult question to answer.
Are there any known side effects with Reality Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Reality Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Reality Therapy?
The Centre for Reality Therapy UK
Wikipedia entry on Reality Therapy
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Rebirthing Therapy
What is rebirthing therapy?
Rebirthing therapy is a term used to describe several different forms of
complementary and alternative medicine practices. The main connecting theory
behind this form of therapy is the common belief that human birth is a traumatic
event and that re-visiting the birth, in some way, can have therapeutic value.
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This may be achieved through breathwork (breathing techniques), and in this

instance the alternative therapy is called rebirthing-breathwork.
Another form, called rebirthing or attachment therapy, is generally used with children
who are suffering mental health problems following on from attachment disorders;
often in children who have been fostered or adopted.
Rebirthing breathwork shares similarities with aspects of holotropic breathwork
therapy (which has its own entry where you can find out further information).
This article will therefore deal with rebirthing therapy in the context of attachment
disorders.
How does rebirthing therapy work?
Rebirthing therapy, or attachment therapy as it may also be known, is an alternative
and somewhat controversial technique used primarily with fostered and adopted
children, though it may be used with other children too.
The therapy attempts to work with children who have attachment disorders following
on from the traumatic events of separation from their birth parents, and the fact that
the child now has difficulty forming new attachments with caregivers and other
important people in their lives.
Rebirthing therapy works by attempting to get the child to regress into a more
infantile status in which they have no control over their environment or the people
around them. The aim of the therapy is for the caregiver to have all of the control.
Controversial elements of this therapy most often are related to an element known
as holding, in which the child is forcibly held. The aim of this is to make the child
have a therapeutic release of their emotions.
What can rebirthing therapy be used for?
As already mentioned, rebirthing therapy is used primarily with children who have
attachment disorders. But it is also used with a variety of other mental health issues
which are often suffered by children who have been removed from their birth parents
and placed into foster and/or adoptive parents homes.
Is rebirthing therapy an effective form of therapy?
Rebirthing therapy is stated to have little understanding of attachment theories and is
not considered to be part of mainstream psychology. The methods used are
generally not scientifically validated as well as being potentially dangerous and
abusive (see below).
The general opinion of rebirthing therapy is that it is pseudoscientific and is hence
not an effective form of therapy.
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Are there any known side effects with rebirthing therapy?
There have been at least six fatalities of children who have been undergoing
rebirthing therapy, and there has been much controversy regarding the methods
used, particularly the holding and restraint techniques.
Where can you find further information on rebirthing therapy?

Kids Come First website against attachment therapy
Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children
Quackwatch Be Wary of Attachment Therapy article
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Reconnective Healing Therapy

What is Reconnective Healing therapy?
Reconnective Healing therapy is a relatively new form of energy work, and is an
alternative therapy system.
Reconnective Healing therapy was developed by Dr Eric Pearl, a chiropractor. He
found that, after having treated patients for 12 years, he began to experience strange
happenings in which his patients reported being miraculously cured from lifethreatening illnesses such as cancer, just as a result of his hands being near their
body.
Dr Pearl developed a theory based on his belief that he was reconnecting to the
universe and tapping into a set of new healing frequencies, and that these healing
powers are accessible to everyone who is interested in healing others.
How does Reconnective Healing therapy work?
It is not entirely clear how Reconnective Healing therapy works except to say that
it reputably works by tapping into universal energy fields, and by using this energy
which can flow through the healer and into the client who is being healed.
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What can Reconnective Healing therapy be used for?
Reconnective Healing therapy appears to be a general healing technique and is not
aimed at one or more specific illnesses or conditions. It does claim to bring balance
to the client, in that it works by addressing a combination of physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual characteristics of the body, using the assumption that good
health is a combination of the well-being of all of these aspects.
Is Reconnective Healing therapy an effective form of therapy?
Reconnective Healing therapy has not been adequately tested in a controlled
environment in order to determine whether or not it is an effective form of therapy.
As a form of alternative healing, based on energy work, the general consensus in the
mainstream medical world is that any positive effects from a Reconnective Healing
therapy session would merely be the placebo effect and nothing more. Until there is
sufficient proof of study in a controlled environment, this opinion will remain.
Are there any known side effects with Reconnective Healing therapy?
There are no reported side effects with Reconnective Healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on Reconnective Healing therapy?
The Reconnection website of founder Eric Pearl
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Recreational Therapy
What is recreational therapy?
Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation or recreation therapy, is
a type of therapy aimed at individuals who have illnesses and/or disabilities which
might otherwise limit their ability to participate in recreational activities.
It is based on the theory that recreation has a therapeutic value in that it can improve
emotional behaviour, quality of life, social functioning and physical characteristics. It
is also believed that it can aid in the prevention of secondary health conditions and
help with the treatment of primary health conditions.
In the United States, recreational therapy emerged in the 1940s and 1950s when two
branches where apparent. The first was based on the premise that recreation should
be used as a therapeutic tool for the treatment of various conditions. The second
premise was that recreation was an important part of our lives, and that for people
who were institutionalised, it met a specific human need.
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Now in the US, recreational therapy is a recognised form of therapy and there are
several associations in existence. Around the rest of the world, it would appear that
recreational therapy is covered under more general forms of therapy, such as
diversional therapy and occupational therapy.
How does recreational therapy work?
Recreational therapists, who may also be known as Certified Therapeutic Recreation
Specialists (CTRS), develop programmes for people with disabilities or illnesses in
order for them to participate in recreational activities.
By recreational, this does not necessarily mean that they are sporting activities. It
can include a large number of other leisure activities, and which ones are used will
really depend on the individual and their conditions.
The therapist may use sports, dance and movement, drama, music, animals, games,
arts and crafts and many other techniques, working with the client and with their
family members and close friends where applicable and suitable, in order to improve
their health condition.
What can recreational therapy be used for?
As already touched on, recreational therapy is most often used with individuals who
have illnesses or disabilities with the objective of improving their quality of life. This
may be through actually improving their health, so that they are able to function
better in their everyday lives and to encourage independent living skills, in addition to
providing treatment for their specific condition.
Alternatively it may be used in more of a mental capacity improving emotional
feelings so that the individual feels better on an emotional level which can then lead
to better social functioning.
Is recreational therapy an effective form of therapy?
It is believed that recreational therapy is an effective form of therapy in the treatment
of people with disabilities and illnesses.
Are there any known side effects with recreational therapy?
There are no known side effects with recreational therapy.
Where can you find further information on recreational therapy?
National Council For Therapeutic Recreation
American Therapeutic Recreation Association
Wikipedia entry on recreational therapy
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Reflexology
What is reflexology?
Reflexology is an alternative medicine practice which uses the feet, though
sometimes also the hands and the ears, to treat other parts of the body. This works
on the principle that the different areas of the foot correspond to different areas of
the body, and so if you manipulate one area you are having a direct affect on
another.
Modern reflexology practices began in the United States in 1913 when a Dr
Fitzgerald claimed that he could produce an anaesthetic effect in other parts of the
body by pressing on the feet. His theory was later developed by Eunice Ingham, a
nurse and physiotherapist, in the 1930s and 1940s.
Ingham believed that both the hands and feet were particularly sensitive and she
produced a map showing the parts of the feet and their corresponding body parts.
Since this time, the basic principles have been further developed. Yet it is Inghams
theory which is first practised by trainee reflexologists.
How does reflexology work?
There are two schools of thought amongst reflexologists today. The first, more
conventional theory of reflexology is that stress and pain can be relieved by
manipulation of the feet. This theory holds a certain amount of truth as usually
massage of any kind can prove to be relaxing to the body. The second theory is that
the manipulation of the feet can stimulate the bodys energy field (also known as the
life force, or Qi) and in so doing it relieves blockages which would otherwise prevent
the body from healing. This is the more alternative belief system.
Both theories, though, use reflexology charts in order to map which parts of the feet
should be manipulated to affect the parts of the body which need treatment.
What can reflexology be used for?
Reflexology can be used as a general form of treatment to promote good health and
wellbeing by stimulating the bodys life force. In this way, blockages can be removed
so that the body has the capacity to heal itself and so hence this is really a universal
form of treatment.
Is reflexology an effective form of therapy?
There has been little scientific study into the effectiveness of reflexology and the
treatment of the whole body through manipulation of the feet. And because
reflexology claims to treat the bodys life force, opinion as to whether this is a
credible form of treatment is divided.
In the medical world, which generally looks for scientific proof, reflexology is
considered to be a pseudoscience because there is no proof that a life force exists.
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Beyond the fact that reflexology is in a sense massaging the feet, there is no
evidence to suggest that it can be effective for anything else.
Are there any known side effects with reflexology?
There are no known side effects with reflexology. But there are concerns in the
conventional medical world that if people seek treatment this way, they are delaying
getting proper medical attention for conditions, which could have further adverse
effects.
Where can you find further information on reflexology?
The British Reflexology Association
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on reflexology
International Institute of Reflexology
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Reiki
What is Reiki?
Reiki is an alternative, energy-based therapy system with spiritual elements which
can be used to treat physical, emotional and mental diseases through the
channelling of energy from the practitioners hands.
It is considered to be a holistic therapy as it treats the whole body and mind.
Reiki was developed by a Japanese Tendai Buddhist called Mikao Usui in 1922.
Having spent three weeks meditating, praying and fasting on Mount Kurama, he
returned claiming that he had had a mystical revelation which had given him the
power to heal and to teach others to heal using Reiki.
Usui went on to found the Usui Reiki Healing Society in Japan so that he could teach
the practice to others.
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Since the 1980s, a number of other associations have begun. And during the past
ten years in particular, Reiki has become a popular form of healing in the Western
world, especially amongst New Age groups.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki practitioners go through quite extensive training to reach various levels up to
that of Reiki Master, and at each level they learn additional skills, such as distance
healing.
Reiki works by tuning into and channelling the universal life force (or spiritual energy)
which is said to exist all around us. By using this energy, the practitioner can channel
it as healing energy, through their hands into the recipient.
What can Reiki be used for?
Reiki can be used to treat specific conditions by placing the practitioners hands on
the relevant part of the body, though it can also be used for the whole body. In
addition, Reiki is said to heal other elements of a person without actually specifically
directing the healing energy in that way.
A whole body treatment of Reiki will usually last between 45 and 90 minutes as
various parts of the body are treated for three to five minutes at a time.
It would appear that Reiki healing therapy can be used to heal all manner of
conditions and illnesses and it can also be used with other living things, such as
animals and plants.
Is Reiki an effective form of therapy?
Reiki is quite a popular form of therapy and a search on the internet will bring back
literally thousands of accounts of people describing the positive effects that they
have experienced.
However, there are very few actual studies which can be used as scientific evidence
of its effectiveness.
Because studies have to be conducted in a very specific way to ensure accuracy of
results, there are currently only six studies which have been published in alternative
medicine journals.
Four out of these six do appear to indicate positive effects from Reiki treatments,
whilst the other two do not. But the number of subjects who reported positive effects
and the actual improvement levels were very small.
Without many more studies proving the efficacy of Reiki, it will remain an alternative
and complementary form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Reiki?
There are no known side effects with Reiki.
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Where can you find further information on Reiki?

The UK Reiki Federation
The International Center for Reiki Training
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on Reiki
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Reparative Therapy
What is reparative therapy?
Reparative therapy is another term used to describe conversion therapy or Sexual
Reorientation Therapy and it is intended to convert homosexual men and women
into heterosexuals. The word reparative is used because those who approve of this
therapy consider homosexuals to be abnormal and hence the therapy is intended to
put right, or repair, this abnormality.
Reparative therapy is not commonly used in the present day as attitudes and
opinions about homosexuality have largely changed for the better. But you can read
more about the background to this therapy, how it works, what it can be used for,
whether it is effective and whether there are any side effects within the conversion
therapy listing.
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Respiratory Therapy
What is respiratory therapy?
Respiratory therapy appears to be a commonly used term within North America, but
is not commonly used in the UK and Europe.
In the United States and Canada, respiratory therapists are specially trained
healthcare professionals who specifically deal with patients respiration and may
have quite an in-depth role in the care of the patient.
In the UK, the closest profession to a respiratory therapist is an ICU Technician.
However, a technician only assists nurses and doctors with the patient and does not
become involved in longer term care.
How does respiratory therapy work?
How respiratory therapy works depends on exactly what condition is being treated.
For more minor conditions, respiratory therapy may involve teaching a patient how to
inhale medication effectively, such as from an aerosol for asthmatic problems. Or it
may involve more complicated procedures such as connecting the patient to a
ventilator if they are having trouble breathing on their own.
This would involve inserting a tube into the windpipe, connecting it to the ventilator
and then ensuring that the oxygen mixture and flow was set at the correct levels.
Respiratory therapy may also involve the use of chest physiotherapy to assist
patients in breathing efficiently.
The role of respiratory therapists in the US and Canada includes further
responsibilities such as longer term care, counselling regarding smoking and disease
prevention amongst others.
What can respiratory therapy be used for?
On a basic level, respiratory therapy is used in order to help patients to breath and
may be required for a number of reasons. Patients who have suffered chest trauma
will require respiratory therapy, for example, as well as those who are having
difficulty getting enough oxygen into their blood.
Other uses are for people who have long term respiratory conditions, such as
asthma, or for those who have developed usually short term conditions, such as
bronchitis.
Some patients may require respiratory therapy after surgery because of the effects
of the anaesthetic on slowing down the lungs, in which case a type of physiotherapy
is performed. This physiotherapy can also be used for patients with lung diseases
such as cystic fibrosis.
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Is respiratory therapy an effective form of therapy?
Respiratory therapy is an important and potentially life-saving form of therapy which
is widely used and accepted as being effective in the US and Canada. In the UK, the
benefits of respiratory therapy (although not called such) are also widely recognised
as very important and effective.
Are there any known side effects with respiratory therapy?
There are potential problems which may be caused as a result of respiratory therapy,
such as too much, or too little oxygen, for example. However, if the therapy is
performed by a qualified professional (which it generally would be), the chances of
this occurring should be slim to non-existent.
Where can you find further information on respiratory therapy?
You can find out more about the role of a respiratory therapist from the links below:
Wikipedia entry on respiratory therapy
US Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook entry for respiratory
therapists
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Retail Therapy
What is retail therapy?
Retail therapy is not a therapy. It was a term coined as joke by a journalist at the
Chicago Tribune, which caught on and which people would use as a euphemism for
going shopping. But there is no health benefit to going shopping other than it could
be considered to provide a recreational distraction by those that enjoy it. However,
the same could be said of playing golf or going to a party. So retail therapy doesnt
have an entry in this book.
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Reverse Therapy
What is Reverse Therapy?
Reverse Therapy is a relatively new mind body healing technique which is said to be
very effective in reversing the symptoms of a number of conditions including chronic
fatigue syndrome.
Reverse Therapy was developed by UK psychologist Dr John Eaton in 2002,
following several years of study into mind body healing techniques and symptomfocused therapies. His research came about as a result of observing how symptoms
in patients varied according to their emotional health. So he began to develop an
educational process which taught people how to get rid of their symptoms by acting
on what their body was telling them.
Reverse Therapy is gaining popularity in the UK where there are a number of
certified practitioners, and although the therapy does not appear to have taken off
rapidly in other countries, there are now practitioners in the United States and
Australia.
How does Reverse Therapy work?
Reverse Therapy is a mind body technique which works by teaching people to
recognise the signs which their body is giving them.
At the core of Reverse Therapy is the concept that the human body is driven by both
Bodymind and Headmind. The Bodymind element is that which keeps us healthy
and is otherwise known as the Emotional Brain. The Headmind is the intellect and
that which keeps us questioning, thinking etc. When these two elements are in
harmony and alignment, the body works well and is healthy, but when the Headmind
element becomes dominant, the body becomes unbalanced and leads to disease.
So in essence, Reverse Therapy teaches people to stop the Headmind element from
taking over and to recognise the signs before this stage, by using body-focusing
techniques in order to recognise the symptom messages being sent. Once the
messages are recognised, the person can act on them and hence reduce or
eliminate the symptoms.
What can Reverse Therapy be used for?
It is stated that Reverse Therapy is very effective for the treatment of chronic fatigue
syndrome (also known as M.E.) and fibromyalgia. Reverse Therapy is also being
developed for a number of other conditions which are considered to be mind body
specific, such as irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and skin conditions.
Is Reverse Therapy an effective form of therapy?
As Reverse Therapy is a relatively new and somewhat alternative form of therapy
there is no reference as to whether independent research has taken place as to the
effectiveness of this therapy. Proponents of Reverse Therapy claim that it is a
revolutionary treatment and is very effective for the above mentioned conditions.
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Are there any known side effects with Reverse Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Reverse Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Reverse Therapy?
Official Reverse Therapy Website
Wikipedia entry on M.E.
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Rolfing Therapy
What is Rolfing therapy?
Rolfing is an alternative therapy which is based on soft tissue manipulation and is
similar in some ways to deep tissue bodywork (which you can read about in more
detail in its own entry).
Rolfing could be considered to be another form of massage, though it is quite
different in the fact that the theory behind Rolfing is related to balance of the body in
relation to gravity.
Practitioners state that the body must be aligned in a certain way so as not to suffer
problems caused by the effects of gravity, and that proper alignment therefore
means that our bodies are kept at optimal physical and emotional health.
Rolfing was developed by Dr Ida Rolf in the 1950s and before becoming known as
Rolfing, the practice was called Postural Release, and later Structural Integration of
the Human Body. The latter name was partly used when, in 1971, the Rolf Institute
of Structural Integration was founded by Dr Rolf.
How does Rolfing therapy work?
The Rolfing theory is that, in order to be healthy, your body must be aligned in the
right way. This means aligning your head with your shoulders, with your pelvis, with
your hips etc. as it is stated that when properly aligned your personal energy is
enhanced by gravity.
This is achieved through using a hands-on Rolfing session, in which the practitioner
(or Rolfer as they are commonly known) attempts to un-bind fascia (or connective
tissue) which is deep under the skin.
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Separating the fibres allows the muscles to loosen up and it is prescribed that, in
order to be successful with the whole body, a series of ten sessions would be
required.
What can Rolfing therapy be used for?
As mentioned above, Rolfing therapy can be used as a general form of release for
the body in order to encourage all-round health and wellbeing, both physically and
emotionally, and this in itself can have further therapeutic benefits.
There are also some claims as to Rolfing being used for more chronic conditions,
such as cerebral palsy, chronic fatigue syndrome and low back pain in that it can
produce improvements in the condition of the sufferer.
Is Rolfing therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have been some scientific studies into the effectiveness of Rolfing therapy
which have reported benefits when treating the conditions mentioned above.
However, although claims were made, there was not enough data presented to
actually support them and hence they cannot be taken as proof.
Also, the gravity theory behind Rolfing appears to be an unsubstantiated claim as it
would seem to suggest that everybody who has not received a Rolfing session must,
therefore, be misaligned.
Are there any known side effects with Rolfing therapy?
There are no known side effects with Rolfing and it is generally seen as a safe form
of therapy.
However, there are precautions which should be observed before starting treatment.
Pregnant women and those who are prone to blood clotting disorders, vascular and
skeletal problems should talk to their doctor first.
Where can you find further information on Rolfing therapy?
The Rolf Institute
Rolfing UK
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on Rolfing
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S
Sandplay and Sand Tray Therapy
What is sandplay therapy and sand tray therapy?
Despite the similar names, sandplay and sand tray therapy are in fact different forms
of therapy. Sand tray therapy is a type of psychoanalytic play therapy which is used
solely to determine the mental health and general well-being of both adults and
children. There is usually no actual healing process, and after assessment some
other form of therapy which will attempt to heal the problems would then be used.
Sandplay therapy, in contrast to sand tray therapy, takes the analysis a step further
and attempts to heal the child or adult of their emotional or mental problem. Hence it
does not usually require the use of another form of therapy in addition.
This article will discuss sandplay therapy in further detail. If you would like to learn
more about how sand tray therapy works, please read the play therapy article.
Sandplay therapy was developed by Swiss therapist Dora Kalff during the 1950s and
1960s in collaboration with English therapist Margaret Lowenfeld, using Jungian
psychology principles.
How does sandplay therapy work?
Sandplay therapy uses a tray filled with sand and gives the adult or child client
access to many different objects and miniature play figures which can be placed
within the sand. The client is encouraged to create a picture with these objects and
figures through a number of methods which will open their imagination, such as talk
therapy or dreamwork.
The scenes which are created by the client are said to be a reflection of the clients
inner world, without inhibition. The therapist does not attempt to interpret the scene
or direct the client in any way. Hence the client is left within their own personal space
where they can begin emotional healing and connection with their deep psyche.
Psychological analysis does not necessarily take place, though it may do at a later
time.
What can sandplay therapy be used for?
Sandplay therapy is often associated with children, although it is equally as useful for
adolescents and adults also. Sandplay therapy allows the client to connect with their
inner self in order to begin healing processes. This would suggest that sandplay
therapy can therefore be used with people who are suffering emotional or mental
upset resulting from a variety of circumstances such as loss.
Is sandplay therapy an effective form of therapy?
Sandplay therapy (as developed by Kalff) has been in use since the late 1950s,
though is said to be gaining much more recognition for its effectiveness over the past
few years. As well as being useful for the conditions mentioned above, it is also said
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to be effective with people who are feeling depressed or a little under the weather
emotionally.
Are there any known side effects with sandplay therapy?
There are no known side effects with sandplay therapy.
Where can you find further information on sandplay therapy?
Sandplay Therapists of America
British and Irish Sandplay Society
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Seitai
What is Seitai?
Seitai is an alternative, energy-based healing technique which promotes a healthy
bodily life force through re-adjustment of the physiology of the body.
Seitai originated in Japan and was developed by Haruchika Noguchi after the
Second World War. It is said to have arisen from a Japanese desire to properly
document traditional healing techniques through a comprehensive study. Noguchi
was one of the people who was involved with this, and he developed Seitai as a
combination of a variety of different traditional techniques. His aim was to perfect a
form of healing and hence Seitai was born.
How does Seitai work?
A Seitai practitioner will first work to find the source of the problem which the client is
experiencing and will examine the body to discover what factors are present which
may be causing the bodys own healing power to work at a weakened efficiency.
The practitioner will then apply the appropriate Seitai technique in order to stimulate
the bodys natural healing power.
Although Noguchi is recognised as being the founder of Seitai, various different
techniques now exist as practitioners have developed their own unique versions of
the therapy. These will all work in slightly different ways, though the most general
definition of a Seitai treatment involves manipulation of the tsubo points (or
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meridians) with an emphasis on the spine as it is believed that realignment of the
spine encourages the body to heal itself.
What can Seitai be used for?
Seitai therapy is said to be useful for treating neck and back pains in particular, as
well as revitalizing those who feel tired and have low energy levels. As stated, Seitai
is supposedly a treatment which stimulates the bodys own healing powers. Hence if
the body can be encouraged to heal itself, then there are a great many conditions
which Seitai could potentially be used to treat.
Is Seitai an effective form of therapy?
No reference to research or scientific study could be found, making it difficult to
determine whether or not Seitai is an effective form of therapy.
Seitai practitioners and the developer of Seitai suggest that this healing technique
came about as a combination of many other traditional and sometimes ancient
healing techniques from the East, and that Seitai utilises all of the best features of
many of these.
So, if you are a believer in the various ancient Japanese and Chinese techniques
then you are more likely to believe in Seitai too and in its effectiveness. With this
attitude, Seitai is more likely to work for you.
Are there any known side effects with Seitai?
There are no known side effects with Seitai.
Where can you find further information on Seitai?
Imoto Seitai official website
Dreamwatch an interview with Tony Crisp, a Seitai practitioner
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Sex Therapy
What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy, or psychosexual therapy as it is officially called, is a type of counselling
therapy which deals specifically with the problems that people are having which
relate to sexual intercourse.
This could include all manner of problems which may benefit from counselling
sessions. These sessions could be self-prescribed, or through your doctor. So they
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could take place in a private setting, or through a counselling organisation such as
Relate, or through the NHS.
Far from being the taboo subject which many people think it is, sex therapy has
actually been in use for over 40 years with a great deal of success. The British
Association for Sexual and Relationship Therapy, for example, was established in
1976. And therapists nowadays usually come from a medical or counselling
background with additional training in physical and psychological issues related to
sex therapy.
How does sex therapy work?
How sex therapy works depends to a certain extent on what aspect of sexual
problems is being dealt with. A person who suffered sexual trauma in their childhood,
for example, will probably need a quite different type of therapy session to someone
who has just started having erectile problems.
As with most other counselling forms of therapy, sex therapy will generally entail the
client having conversations with the therapist about many aspects of their life and
getting to the bottom of their issues. The therapist will then create a personalised
plan of exercises for the client (and their partner if applicable) to do at home.
What can sex therapy be used for?
Sex therapy can be used for all aspects of sexual functioning. This will include: lack
of sexual confidence, loss of sexual desire, sexual addiction, low libido, erectile
dysfunction, premature ejaculation, difficulty reaching orgasm and painful
intercourse.
Is sex therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned above, sex therapy has been used for about the past 40 years and is
recognised as an important and effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with sex therapy?
There are no known side effects with sex therapy.
Where can you find further information on sex therapy?
NetDoctor.co.uk who to contact for sex therapy
Relate Sex Therapy
British Association for Sexual and Relationship Therapy
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Shamanic Healing
What is shamanic healing?
It is difficult to pinpoint when shamanic healing first began, as shamans as healers
are known to have existed in tribal communities all over the world for thousands of
years, going back into the mists of time.
Todays shamans or shamanic practitioners as they call themselves claim to
base their healing practises on the same techniques used by the shamans of old.
Yet, in another sense, shamanic healing can appear remarkably modern because
much of it appears to be based on the power of intention when in the theta state, like
Theta Healing therapy
Traditionally a shaman was seen as someone who could cross into other dimensions
and talk to the beings, known as spirit guides, who he met there. He would do this
to gain information, advice or healing for his tribe.
A modern shamanic healing practitioner will use the same methods a rhythmic
beat of the drum of between four and seven beats per second to help the client
enter the theta state, from which place they are said to be able to enter into the same
dimensions to gain their own information, advice or healing.
How does shamanic healing work?
The shamanic therapy healer regards a loss of health to be mainly due to a loss of
power. Thus their aim is to self-empower the individual again, by putting their client
in touch with their own spirit guides, from whose advice and guidance they can
make their own decisions.
In addition, shamanic practitioners believe that trauma can cause what they call soul
loss or soul fragmentation.
It is claimed that this soul loss can lead to depression, apathy and problems with the
immune system as well as the inability to face lifes challenges or embrace the
future.
So shamanic healing practitioners will sometimes go into the theta state themselves,
in order to retrieve the souls or soul parts on behalf of their client. This is known as
soul retrieval.
They will also perform extractions of unwanted energies, which have somehow
become lodged in the energy bodies of their clients. And some shamans make their
own herbal healing concoctions you can read more about this in shamanic
herbalism.
What can shamanic healing be used for?
If shamanic healing works as its proponents claim that it does, then its applications
are endless. It can be used for all the problems that a client faces, and not just health
ones. But specifically, as mentioned, its soul retrieval technique is said to be helpful
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for depression, apathy and immune system disorders as well as an inability to cope
with lifes challenges or to embrace the future.
Is shamanic healing an effective form of therapy?
There is plenty of anecdotal evidence for the success of shamanic healing.
In addition, in the early 1950s, Mircea Eliade, the professor for the history of religion
of Harvard at the time, produced a book called Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of
Ecstasy. This was basically a collation of anthropologists interviews with shamans
worldwide at the turn of the 19th century.
From these, we can detect that the shamanic healing experience was almost
identical over a wide area. In other words, even though these shamans had never
met one another, they all reported common techniques for entering the theta state,
and common descriptions of how the healing therapy worked.
But there is no modern Western scientific evidence for shamanic healing being an
effective form of therapy. That however, has to be viewed alongside the fact that, as
with most forms of alternative healing therapies, there is little vested interest for the
medicine industry in putting such a therapy through the battery of expensive and
time consuming tests needed to verify its efficacy.
Are there any known side effects with shamanic healing?
There are no known side effects with shamanic healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on shamanic healing?
Shamanism Wikipedia article
The Sacred Trust shamanic healing in the UK
Foundation for Shamanic Studies shamanic healing in the US
Soul Retrieval book by Sandra Ingerman
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Shen Therapy
What is Shen therapy?
Shen therapy is an alternative form of therapy which concentrates solely on treating
the emotional problems of a client and not the physical ones, though in so doing, the
physical problems can often be healed too. It is an energy based therapy which has
some similarities to Reiki, though, as you will read, it is actually quite different.
Shen therapy was developed by an American researcher named Richard Pavek.
Pavek worked on defining the physics behind the so-called human biofield between
1977 and 1978. His development of Shen therapy was then the result of another
twelve years of work. So, although Shen therapy may be considered an alternative
therapy, the theory behind the technique is actually science-based.
How does Shen therapy work?
In a Shen therapy session you remain fully clothed in a reclined position. The Shen
therapist places their hands on or very near your body and lets their own internal
energy, or Qi, flow through.
Shen therapy is said to open the deepest parts of the clients biofield and in so doing,
it is able to release emotional traumas. When this happens, the client will briefly reexperience these traumas as they re-surface, though they quickly disappear.
What can Shen therapy be used for?
As mentioned, Shen therapy is more of an emotional form of therapeutic release
rather than a physical one. It can hence be used by people who have suffered
emotional traumas in their lives as their bodies are invited to let go of these traumas.
In addition, because emotional trauma is said to be ingrained within the physical
body, Shen therapy can have an almost indirect effect on the physical body too.
It is suggested that when we suffer emotional trauma our bodies react by tensing up.
This tenseness becomes a part of everyday life as we learn to cope with it in certain
respects, but not in others. For example, this tenseness can cause other problems,
such as migraines. Hence a Shen therapy session can alleviate the emotional
trauma and the resulting physical problem which, in turn, can stop the migraines.
Shen therapy is said to be useful for also treating chronic pain and menstrual
problems.
Is Shen therapy an effective form of therapy?
Many Shen therapy supporters state that this is a very effective form of therapy and
it works because it is science-based. There are numerous reports on the internet as
to the great success rates Shen therapy has in curing chronic pain conditions, for
example, within a number of clinics in the United States and also within China.
All of these results would tend to suggest that Shen therapy is an effective form of
therapy in treating the aforementioned conditions.
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Are there any known side effects with Shen therapy?

There are no known side effects with Shen therapy.
Where can you find further information on Shen therapy?
International Shen Therapy Association
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Shiatsu
What is shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a hands-on therapy which originated in Japan. It is a form of manipulative
technique with a theory based on anatomy and physiology of the human body. It is a
regulated and licensed form of therapy with the Ministry of Health and Welfare in
Japan.
Shiatsu is said to be an evolving technique because practitioners are constantly
improving on it and developing new methods. Because of this, several different
styles have emerged as being popular, and those which are not entirely the same as
the original form are commonly known as derivative shiatsu.
The word shiatsu comes from the Japanese for finger from shi and pressure
from atsu and its development is generally credited to Tokujiro Namikoshi who
founded the Japan Shiatsu College in 1940 with his form of shiatsu therapy based on
Western anatomy and physiology.
He discovered the benefits of this hands-on therapy at the age of seven whilst
treating his mothers rheumatoid arthritis.
Throughout his life, Namikoshi treated numerous high profile people, including
Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali, which helped to make shiatsu known outside of
Japan.
How does shiatsu work?
Shiatsu therapy works on a diagnosis and therapy combined principle, in that the
practitioner (officially called a shiatsupractor) uses his or her fingers and palms,
though especially the thumbs, to determine problems and irregularities with the
clients body. The shiatsupractor will then work to correct these problems.
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A session of shiatsu therapy is said to stimulate the clients immune system and
promote the bodys natural healing powers.
The treatment is on the body as a whole and so is hence said to help restore the
muscles, bone structure, nervous system and circulatory system, which all helps the
body to heal itself.
What can shiatsu be used for?
Shiatsu, as described, can be used to determine and treat specific problems within
the body, though it can also be used to treat conditions which have been predetermined (i.e. not determined by the shiatsupractor). It is recognised as a way of
correcting imbalances within the body and for maintaining and promoting general
good health.
As a therapy which is said to stimulate the bodys own natural healing process, this
would indicate that there are really no boundaries as to what shiatsu could potentially
be used to treat.
Is shiatsu an effective form of therapy?
Shiatsu is fully regulated and licensed in Japan by the Ministry of Health and Welfare
and has been since 1964 which would suggest that the Japanese do
appreciate that this is an effective form of therapy.
Shiatsu has also become popular around the world, and each country will have
slightly different policies regarding regulation. In the UK, for example, the Shiatsu
Society was formed in 1981 and this society has very high standards, rules and
regulations for its members. Research studies are underway in an effort to
scientifically prove that shiatsu is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with shiatsu?
There are no known side effects with shiatsu therapy.However, as a manipulative
form of therapy, care should always be taken and your doctor should be consulted if
you are unsure whether this would be safe for you.
Where can you find further information on shiatsu?
Shiatsu Society of the UK
World Shiatsu Therapy Organization
American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia
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Shock Therapy
What is shock therapy?
Shock therapy can refer to a number of different forms of therapy used for
psychiatric, psychological and mental health patients, though it generally refers to a
type of aversion therapy which uses electric shocks.
Aversion therapy, which has its own entry is, itself a very controversial form of
therapy with the general consensus being that it does not work and can, in fact, be
quite harmful to the patient depending on what method is being used.
Shock therapy should not be confused with electroconvulsive therapy which is a
recognised form of treatment for people with depression and works in very different
ways to shock therapy. (Electroconvulsive therapy has its own entry where you can
find out further information.)
How does shock therapy work?
Shock therapy involves giving the patient an electric shock in an attempt to condition
them to associate a particular behaviour with the unpleasantness of the electric
shock, and hence to get them to stop that behaviour. The voltage can be set
according to how powerful an electric shock is required and a treatment programme
may be ongoing over a number of weeks or months.
What can shock therapy be used for?
As mentioned, shock therapy is used as an aversion therapy and hence to try to
change a patients thought process about a particular type of behaviour.
For example, shock therapy may be used to treat people with addictions. In this way,
the person would normally have found the addiction to bring them some kind of
pleasure. But shock therapy would give them displeasure and so the idea is for them
to re-associate the feelings they have when engaged in the addiction, with nonpleasurable feelings. Once there is this association, the addiction is no longer a good
experience and they stop.
Shock therapy may be used with children or adults who have emotional or behaviour
disorders and also those with developmental disabilities. However, as previously
mentioned, this form of treatment is very controversial and is only practised in one
clinic in the United States.
Is shock therapy an effective form of therapy?
Typically, both shock therapy and aversion therapy in general are considered to be
controversial, although some forms of aversion therapy for treating people with
addictions are used quite commonly and with some success rates.
In the United States, only one clinic (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center) uses
shock therapy on a variety of conditions, including children with behavioural
problems and those who are mentally handicapped. There has been a great deal of
debate as to whether this treatment is actually effective and even opinions amongst
the parents who have sent their children there is divided. On the one hand, there are
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parents who report that this was the best form of treatment for their child, whereas
on the other hand, parents are suing the centre for having used shock therapy.
Are there any known side effects with shock therapy?
The type of shock therapy used these days should not actually do any permanent
harm to the patient because the levels of shock should not be high enough to do so.
However, the main point with shock therapy is obviously to produce a level of
discomfort.
Where can you find further information on shock therapy?
Wikipedia entry on aversion therapy
Judge Rotenberg Educational Center
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Sociotherapy
What is sociotherapy?
Sociotherapy can refer to a number of different terms which come within the broader
umbrella term of social science.
In a therapeutic setting, sociotherapy is most often a combination of psychology,
social work and sociology and is concerned with the behaviour of groups of people.
This is in contrast to psychosocial interventions therapy (which you can read about in
its own entry), which is concerned with the individual and how they react to their
social environment.
Sociotherapy is a relatively new social science and as yet there is no officially used
definition of this therapy in use.
How does sociotherapy work?
Sociotherapy is used in a number of environments, including nursing homes and
clinics. It is defined by the Society for the Furtherance of Sociotherapy as:
Sociotherapy is the methodical management of the living environment of a group of
clients, directed at the treatment goals of this group conceived as a method of
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achieving the treatment goals of the individual client within a functional unit of usually
intramural treatment institutions.
What this suggests is that sociotherapy deals with managing living environments so
as to encourage the mental wellbeing of the people within that setting. For this
reason, the above definition is most commonly used within nursing homes as it fits
with their view most closely.
What can sociotherapy be used for?
The aim of sociotherapy is to provide life enrichment and/or improvement of social
and life conditions. Most commonly, sociotherapists work with groups of children,
youths or the elderly.
Is sociotherapy an effective form of therapy?
Sociotherapy is seen as an important form of therapy as it is realised how important
it is for individuals to function as part of a group, and how beneficial group settings
can be to improving an individuals way of life.
No reference to scientific studies relating specifically to sociotherapy could be found;
therefore it is difficult to conclude whether sociotherapy is an effective form of
therapy. However, there are many similarities between this and other recognised
forms of effective therapy which would tend to suggest that sociotherapy must have
some benefits.
Are there any known side effects with sociotherapy?
There are no known side effects with sociotherapy.
Where can you find further information on sociotherapy?
Wikipedia entry on sociotherapy
Panta Rhei Introduction on the Professional Code for Sociotherapists
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Sonopuncture
What is sonopuncture?
Sonopuncture therapy is an alternative, energy-based technique which combines
modern beliefs with the ancient healing systems of traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM) in that it focuses on the bodys acupuncture points. It is sometimes also
known by the name of phonophorese.
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However, it should be pointed out that sonopuncture therapy is not a form of TCM
and is not used by TCM practitioners based in or from China. It is a relatively new
and still quite rare healing system.
The technique does not puncture the skin in any way and is in fact a non-invasive
therapy. Sonopuncture therapy uses any sound-emitting device, though most
commonly a tuning fork. The aim is to harmonise the person to the subtle energies of
the universe so that they experience good health and overall wellbeing.
Acutonics is actually sonopuncture therapy, the only real difference being that the
name Acutonics is trademarked.
So please read the Acutonics entry to find out more information on how
sonopuncture therapy works, what it can be used for and whether it is an effective
form of therapy.
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Sound Therapy
What is sound therapy?
Sound therapy is a complementary and somewhat alternative form of therapy which
uses sound for therapeutic effect.
Although you may think that sound therapy would work the same as music therapy
(which has its own entry where you can read more), they are in fact very different.
Whereas music therapy is quite a mainstream and conventional form of therapy, the
theory behind sound therapy is very alternative.
Sound has been used for its therapeutic value for thousands of years, though with
popularity in the more New Age and alternative therapies increasing over the last few
decades, its benefits are only now really being put to use. This new interest in sound
therapy is also being put down to the fact that these ancient ideas and techniques for
using sound can now be verified in certain ways by modern science.
In the UK, there are now professional training courses being run by the British
Academy of Sound Therapy.
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How does sound therapy work?

Sound therapy is based on the theory that our bodies and everything around us
emanates a sound. This sound is more often that not above or below the frequency
at which the human ear can actually hear and interpret it, but even if we cannot hear
a sound, we can often feel it through vibrations.
It is said that our bodies, including the organs and chakras, have their own unique
sound which is perfectly balanced. However, this balance becomes disturbed by
outside influences and by internal influences such as stress. When the body is
unbalanced, it encourages poor health and disease.
Sound therapy works with the aim of re-tuning our bodies using a variety of different
sources including instruments, such as the didgeridoo, as well as tuning forks and
singing bowls and things as simple as the human voice.
What can sound therapy be used for?
By looking at how sound therapy works, it would appear that this can be used as a
therapeutic tool for general health and well-being.
Sound therapy is said to be a more preventative form of medicine than one designed
to treat specific conditions. However, it is suggested that sound therapy has been
used effectively to treat a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety,
migraine, insomnia, chronic pain and cysts.
Is sound therapy an effective form of therapy?
Because sound therapy is both an alternative and complementary form of therapy,
its modern-day benefits are only just really beginning to be appreciated. However
there is little to suggest that there has been proper scientific study into how effective
sound therapy is as a form of therapy, which makes it difficult to make conclusions
from a non-biased point of view.
Are there any known side effects with sound therapy?
There are no known side effects with sound therapy.
Where can you find further information on sound therapy?
CHIS UK article on sound therapy
Soundworks and the British Academy of Sound Therapy
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Speech Therapy
What is speech therapy?
Speech therapy is also known as speech and language therapy in the UK, and
speech-language pathology in North America. It is the study and treatment of a large
variety of disorders which affect speech, language, swallowing, cognition and voice.
There are several areas of speech therapy (discussed below), working within a
variety of settings. Of the 10,000 or so practising speech language therapists in the
UK, the majority are employed in some capacity by the National Health Service
(NHS)
How does speech therapy work?
In the UK, speech therapists may choose one or a combination of three areas in
which to work. These are with children, with adults or with adults with learning
disabilities.
The work with children generally involves trying to raise their level of speech and
language skills up to that which would be expected of a child of that age. With adults
this would usually be rehabilitation work after they have suffered a stroke, for
example. The work with adults with learning disabilities is mainly actually directed at
their caregivers and staff who have direct contact with them, in order to educate
them in being able to communicate effectively with the person, rather than actually
giving direct therapy to the person concerned.
Depending on what aspect is being treated, speech therapy techniques can vary
quite substantially. They could include physical strengthening exercises, instruction
and repetitive practise (for example if dealing with a lisp), or perhaps use of sign
language, picture symbols and other audio-visual aids to prompt better
communication.
What can speech therapy be used for?
Speech therapy can be used for a large variety of conditions. The Royal College of
Speech and Language Therapists in the UK, define the conditions with which speech
therapists work as:
With babies
feeding and swallowing difficulties
With children
autism/social interaction difficulties
cleft palate
dyslexia
hearing impairment
language delay
mild, moderate or severe learning difficulties
physical disabilities
selective mutism
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specific difficulties in producing sounds

specific language impairment
stammering
voice disorders
With adults
cancer of the head, neck and throat (including laryngectomy)
eating and swallowing and/or communication problems following stroke
hearing impairment
learning difficulties
mental health issues
neurological impairments and degenerative conditions including: head injury,
motor neuron disease, Parkinsons and dementia
physical disabilities
stammering (dysfluency)
voice problems
Is speech therapy an effective form of therapy?
Speech therapy is recognised as an effective and important form of therapy for the
aforementioned conditions amongst babies, children and adults.
Are there any known side effects with speech therapy?
There are no known side effects with speech therapy.
Where can you find further information on speech therapy?
The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
American Speech Language Hearing Association
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Stress Management Therapy

What is stress management therapy?
Stress management therapy is not really a specific form of therapy as such, but a
way of living and a way of coping with stress or eliminating stress from our lives.
Stress was first identified as a condition by endocrinologist Hans Selye, who started
researching it from 1936. Seyles work is said to have been influenced by American
physiologist Walter Cannon, who came up with the term fight or flight in 1915, after
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his experiments with animals and their responses to threats. It was Seyles work
though, which brought stress to the attention of the world as he discovered how and
why it affects us.
How does stress management therapy work?
As mentioned above, although stress is recognised as a condition which people
suffer from, stress management therapy is not a therapy as such and there are no
stress management therapists. However, stress can be treated in a large variety of
ways, including through other types of therapy. More often than not, though, stress
management therapy is up to the individual.
There are two models of stress management. The first is the transactional model.
This suggests that stress is a result of imbalance between demands and resources
or as a perceived inability to cope. For example, in the workplace you may be asked
to take on more work than you think you can handle, leading to further pressure and
stress.
A stress management programme for this model would attempt to break the link
between the person and the stress. This works by changing perceptions of the
potential stress. Rather than seeing the extra workload as a threat, you perceive it as
a challenge and rather than focusing on an inability to cope, you should be confident
that you can cope.
The second model of stress management is the health realisation/innate health
model. This model suggests that a programme should focus on the nature of
thought and in helping individuals understand this nature, as well as the ability to
recognise when they are on the verge of insecure thinking. By ridding the mind of
insecure thoughts as to your potential and ability you can establish better feelings of
wellbeing and hence reduce stress levels.
In addition to these two models, there are ways in which an individual can learn to
cope with stress. This includes the importance of time management, the ability to say
no to extra demands placed on us, meditation, exercise, deep breathing, autogenics
and other relaxation techniques.
What can stress management therapy be used for?
As the name suggests, stress management therapy is used for managing and coping
with stress and for attempting to reduce the amount of stress a person feels in the
first place.
Is stress management therapy an effective form of therapy?
Because stress management therapy is essentially a self-help technique, it is really
as effective as the person using it wants it to be. This is because stress is generally
suffered because of our perceptions of situations and the environment around us.
Therefore we have the ability to control how we feel about that and hence limit the
amount of stress felt.
Are there any known side effects with stress management therapy?
There are no known side effects with stress management therapy.
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Where can you find further information on stress management therapy?
Wikipedia entry on stress management
International Stress Management Association UK
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Structural Energetic Therapy

What is Structural Energetic Therapy?
Structural Energetic Therapy is a trademarked name for a form of therapy which
incorporates several other therapeutic techniques to result in a body restructuring
therapy.
Structural Energetic Therapy was developed by massage therapist Don McCann in
the early 1980s. However, it is recognised that this form of therapy is one which is
constantly evolving for the better.
Because McCann is the only certified trainer of Structural Energetic Therapy, there
are yet to be large number of therapists who offer this. The majority appear to be
within the United States, and hence it is not commonly practised around the world as
yet.
How does Structural Energetic Therapy work?
Structural Energetic Therapy is a combination of a variety of other techniques:
myofascial restructuring*, emotional energy release*, acupressure*, Kinesiology*
and muscle testing, postural analysis, scar tissue and adhesion release, deep tissue
therapy* and rehabilitative massage. In addition, it incorporates cranial/structural
techniques*.
A Structural Energetic Therapy session will begin with the therapist concentrating on
areas of the body which have been causing discomfort, releasing areas of pain.
The theory behind the treatment is that apparently over 90 per cent of the population
suffers with a basic structural core distortion which is the source of bodily aches and
pains. Structural Energetic Therapy aims to address these imbalances and improve
bodily alignment.
Restructuring is achieved through release of toxins and fluids within the muscles,
releasing myofascial holding patterns, inflammations and adhesions.
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*Variations of these therapies all have their own entries where you can read exactly
how they work on an individual basis.
What can Structural Energetic Therapy be used for?
It is suggested that Structural Energetic Therapy is suitable for treating numerous
conditions. These include: headaches, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, whiplash,
carpal tunnel, back pain, knee pain, tendonitis, arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia,
scoliosis and sprains and strains.
Is Structural Energetic Therapy an effective form of therapy?
As a relatively new and uncommon form of therapy around the world, Structural
Energetic Therapy has not been properly researched to prove its effectiveness.
There are websites which include various testimonials from people who have been
treated by Structural Energetic Therapy.
But these may show bias and are not necessarily the views of everybody who has
been treated in other words, they are unlikely to show the views of people who
were not successfully treated.
Are there any known side effects with Structural Energetic Therapy?
There are no reported side effects with Structural Energetic Therapy.
But if you are considering using this form of therapy you should first carefully discuss
any conditions you have with the therapist to ensure that what they do is safe for
you.
Where can you find further information on Structural Energetic Therapy?
Structural Energetic Therapy Inc.
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Swimming Therapy
What is swimming therapy?
Swimming therapy is the use of water and encouragement of swimming for people
with disabilities in order that they can benefit from the positive experiences gained
through swimming.
In the UK, swimming therapy first began in the late 1940s when James and Phyl
McMillan realised the importance of swimming for people with disabilities. They set
up a swimming club and developed a 10-point programme for teaching the disabled.
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They called this the Halliwick Concept, after the Halliwick School which was a school
for girls with physical disabilities.
In 1952, as demand had grown, they set up the Halliwick Association of Swimming
Therapy. The number of swimming clubs offering access for those with disabilities
increased across the UK and demand also grew overseas.
The Halliwick Concept of swimming therapy is still being taught to this day in the UK
and in many countries around the world.
How does swimming therapy work?
The Halliwick Concept of swimming therapy works by using the 10-point programme
which was developed in the 1950s. This programme aims to first increase
confidence in the water through mental adjustment, then balance control, then
movement three elements which are considered to be essential for motor learning.
The 10 points are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Mental adjustment.
Disengagement.
Transversal (formerly vertical) rotation control.
Sagittal rotation control.
Longitudinal (formerly lateral) rotation control.
Combined rotation control.
Upthrust.
Balance in stillness.
Turbulent gliding.
Simple progression and a basic stroke.
What can swimming therapy be used for?

The main aim of swimming therapy is to allow people with disabilities to be able to
enjoy and benefit from swimming.
Swimming, in itself, is beneficial because of the exercise element. Exercise, in turn,
can help to strengthen muscles and bones which can help to improve physical
conditions. In addition, the 10-point programme teaches mental adjustment, which is
good not only for swimming but in the persons life outside of the swimming pool, as
is balance, as this can help with coordination.
Swimming therapy can also be seen as generally improving mental and physical
health and well-being.
Is swimming therapy an effective form of therapy?
No specific reference to research regarding swimming therapy could be found. But it
is widely accepted that this is an effective and important form of therapy for people
with disabilities because of the many benefits it can bring.
Are there any known side effects with swimming therapy?
There are no known side effects with swimming therapy.
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Where can you find further information on swimming therapy?

Halliwick Association of Swimming Therapy in the UK
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Systemic Therapy
What is systemic therapy?
Systemic therapy is a type of psychotherapy which is essentially the same as family
therapy, or family systems therapy. It concentrates on treating a group, group
relationships and group interactions rather than just the individual.
Systemic therapy does not aim to find the route of a problem, but attempts to bring
about change within the group so that problems can be recognised and acted upon.
This type of therapy may be more readily referred to as systemic therapy when used
in environments other than a family setting, such as in business. It is also being
used in more and more settings, including politics and education.
To find out more about how systemic therapy works, what it can be used for, and
whether it is effective, please read the family therapy article.
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T
Tantric Massage Therapy
What is tantric massage therapy?
Tantric massage therapy, or tantra massage as it is also known, is a form of
massage which is designed to be both sensual and sexual in nature.
Tantric massage therapy is based on tantra, an ancient Indian spiritual practise and
philosophy which is found in several religions, such as Hindu and Buddhism. It is
based on the belief that feeling and experiencing pleasure are things that humans
should embrace, not run from, and that by doing so we can benefit from personal
growth, happiness and well-being.
The idea is that tantric massage therapy provides the person receiving it with both
benefits and healing on a spiritual, emotional and physical level.
How does tantric massage therapy work?
For the greatest benefit, it is recommended that the client is fully undressed for a
tantric massage therapy session, although if the client is not comfortable with this,
the therapist should respect their wishes.
The massage is very gentle and with a light touch, more caressing than most other
forms of massage which can be forceful. It does not concentrate on one area alone,
but on the whole body.
It is said that tantric massage therapy provides an extremely deep level of relaxation,
pleasure and positive emotions for the receiver, taking them on a spiritual journey
and encouraging positive thoughts and feelings.
What can tantric massage therapy be used for?
Unlike the majority of other massage therapies, tantric massage therapy does not
aim to cure physical aches and pains and does not concentrate on just one part of
the body.
Tantric massage therapy is a whole-body experience which is designed so that the
receiver can enjoy sensuality and relaxation and become more in touch with their
body and its needs. Once this level is reached, it is said that tantric massage therapy
can produce further benefits in that it promotes general well-being and happiness.
Is tantric massage therapy an effective form of therapy?
Because tantric massage therapy is a little different to most massage therapies and
is not therapeutic in the common sense of the word, it is difficult to say whether or
not it is an effective form of therapy.
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Tantric massage therapy is really what you make of it, and is a massage therapy that
would not suit everyone!
Are there any known side effects with tantric massage therapy?
There are no known side effects with tantric massage therapy.
Where can you find further information on tantric massage therapy?
Tantralink.com
Tantric Therapy
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TENS Therapy
What is TENS therapy?
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator, though TENS is the
commonly known name.
TENS is an electronic device which produces electrical signals in order to stimulate
the nerves and is most generally used for pain relief.
The first documented use of electrical stimulation for pain control was in ancient
Greece in 63 AD. This technique was extremely primitive as it involved standing on
an electrical fish! Between the 16th and 18th centuries, a number of devices were
manufactured for alleviating pain, though these were not portable and not easily
controllable.
It was not until 1974 that the first modern-day TENS device was manufactured.
Despite the fact that it had been designed for another reason, the machine was a
very popular form of pain relief. This first device was manufactured by Medtronic and
the name was given by Dr Charles Burton.
How does TENS therapy work?
TENS devices are portable devices which have been designed so that they can be
used in the home, not just in clinical settings. They are typically battery operated and
have two or more electrodes which are connected to the skin. The frequency and
intensity of the pulses produced can be easily controlled so that they can be
changed as necessary depending on pain levels.
TENS is not designed to stimulate the muscles, and if there is muscle contraction
experienced, this indicates that the levels are set too high. What TENS therapy is
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supposed to do is stimulate the nerves and in so doing, it blocks the pain that is
being felt.
What can TENS therapy be used for?
Despite some opinions to the contrary, TENS therapy is considered to be an
effective form of pain relief and is particularly popular for pain relief during labour. In
addition, TENS has been used for pain relief from other conditions such as
musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain.
Is TENS therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned, TENS therapy is a very popular form of pain relief for women in
labour and is frequently recommended for this reason. However, there is actually
little research data that confirms its effectiveness in obstetric care and some
obstetricians claim it is ineffective.
There have been other studies conducted as to the effectiveness of TENS with pain
relief from other conditions. It has shown positive results in the treatment of relief
from musculoskeletal pain and has shown some success with easing neuropathic
pain.
Are there any known side effects with TENS therapy?
When used as prescribed, there should be no side effects with TENS therapy.
There are, however, a number of precautions which should be followed, including:
proper placement of the electrodes not on or near the eyes, in the mouth, on each
temple, on the front of the neck or on skin that is broken, wounded or suffers from
decreased sensation.
Those with epilepsy should take care and those with a cardiac pacemaker should not
use TENS.
Caution should also be maintained by pregnant women in that electrodes should not
be placed near the foetus.
Where can you find further information on TENS therapy?
WebMD article on TENS
eMedicine article on TENS
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Therapeutic Touch Therapy

What is Therapeutic Touch therapy?
Therapeutic Touch, or TT as it is often simply known, is an energy therapy, based on
the idea that humans have an energy field which can be manipulated so as to assist
the bodys natural healing process.
Therapeutic Touch was developed in the 1970s by Dora Kunz, a theosophist, and
Dolores Krieger, a nursing educator, and the therapy was developed with a basis in
ancient healing practices. Therapeutic Touch came at a time when there was quite a
lot of interest in the nursing community in a move away from scientifically proved
methods, to those that were anecdotal and unsubstantiated.
How does Therapeutic Touch therapy work?
Although its name includes the word touch, a Therapeutic Touch treatment does not
actually use physical touch. It is based on the principle that humans have an energy
field, often referred to as a biofield or bioenergetic field, and the idea that the client
heals him or herself. The therapist is just a human energy support system, placing
their hands a little way above the body where they are said to be able to detect and
manipulate the clients energy field.
Manipulation through Therapeutic Touch is required when the clients flow of energy
becomes blocked and hence the therapist aims to unblock it and restore integrity. In
so doing, health and well-being will result.
What can Therapeutic Touch therapy be used for?
Therapeutic Touch does not purport to treat particular or specific conditions because
it is based on the theory that a client has the ability to heal themselves; the therapist
is merely the support mechanism which is said to encourage the clients energy field.
This would indicate then (assuming that the theory on which this is based is correct),
that Therapeutic Touch can be used for general health and wellbeing and for treating
the body of a number of conditions through the boosting of the immune system.
Is Therapeutic Touch therapy an effective form of therapy?
There have not been many studies into the effectiveness of Therapeutic Touch, but
those that have been conducted have generally not shown positive or encouraging
results.
Research conducted by one of the developers, Dolores Krieger, in 1975 did not
prove the effectiveness of Therapeutic Touch. And an attempt at conducting
research by an independent body in 1996 did not have good results as only one
practitioner out of 40,000 responded to the invitation.
However, in 1998, an 11-year-old Colorado girl named Emily Rosa was able to
recruit 21 practitioners for her science fair project experiment. Emily placed a screen
between a practitioner's eyes and hands, and then held her own hand over one of
the practitioner's hands. Emily conducted 280 tests with the 21 subjects, and they
identified the correct location of her hand in only 44 per cent of the tests.
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The only positive results of a study were in 2004, when Therapeutic Touch was
examined for its effectiveness on dementia. The findings suggest that Therapeutic
Touch does decrease behavioural and psychological symptoms of the condition.
Are there any known side effects with Therapeutic Touch therapy?
There are no known side effects with Therapeutic Touch.
Where can you find further information on Therapeutic Touch therapy?
The Skeptics Dictionary entry on Therapeutic Touch
The British Association of Therapeutic Touch
Official Organization for Therapeutic Touch
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Thermotherapy
What is thermotherapy?
Thermotherapy is a term which may be used to describe several different therapeutic
treatments and methods for relieving a variety of conditions.
These treatments include Transpupillary Thermotherapy (TTT) which is a method for
treating a condition of the eyes called choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) and
involves the use of a laser directed at the specific point within the eye. Trials for this
treatment were published in 2000 and showed positive results, though it was
suggested that further trials were necessary.
Thermotherapy can refer to a treatment for cancer. In this case, it is cold
temperatures which are used to induce a localised hypothermia in an attempt to kill
the cancerous cells or to make them more susceptible to other treatments such as
radiation and chemotherapy.
Thermotherapy most commonly refers to hot or cold treatments for pain relief. For
centuries, the benefits of heat and cold have been appreciated for medical purposes,
and depending on the nature of the pain being experienced, either hot or cold packs
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can be used and placed or held directly onto the affected area. This is the form of
thermotherapy which will be discussed in further detail below.
How does thermotherapy work?
There are actually a great many methods for the use of thermotherapy, most of
which will apply to the application of heat rather than cold, though both can be used.
Hence the way in which thermotherapy works really depends on which particular
method is being used. Examples include hydrotherapy, hot packs, diathermy,
ultrasound and laser therapy.
You can read all about how hydrotherapy, diathermy and laser therapy work in their
own entries.
What can thermotherapy be used for?
As discussed above, there are actually several very different uses for thermotherapy.
TTT is a medical technique which is used on the eyes, whereas thermotherapy by
use of hypothermia can be used to treat cancer.
Thermotherapy is most commonly associated though with musculoskeletal and joint
disorders and diseases.
Is thermotherapy an effective form of therapy?
As there are so many different methods used for thermotherapy, it is difficult to say
whether or not they are effective as many work in different ways.
Please see the individual entries for hydrotherapy, laser therapy and diathermy for
further information on their specific effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with thermotherapy?
Again this will vary with the actual mode of treatment, but generally the side effects
should be minimal and may include minor burns.
Where can you find further information on thermotherapy?
Wikipedia entry on thermotherapy regarding cancer treatment
Your Total Health article on thermotherapy in general
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Theta Healing
What is Theta Healing?
Theta Healing is a gentle, non-invasive kind of healing that works with the power of
intention in an environment of altered brain wave function. Since the advent of
psychoneuroimmunology, complementary health professionals are increasingly
using the power of the mind to heal, and Theta Healing is one of the more recent
therapies in this field.
Also previously known as the Orian (or Orion) technique, Theta Healing therapy has
been developed over a ten year period by naturopath and intuitive psychic Vianna
Stibal, who claims that she discovered this form of healing when she used it to heal
herself from cancer.
Practitioners point to quantum physics to explain its results, but that you dont have
to be a quantum physicist to either practise or benefit from it. Theta Healing is based
on whats known in the world of quantum mechanics as Bells Theorem, which found
that the intention of a scientist conducting an experiment at the sub-atomic level
affects the outcome of the experiment.
As thought exists at the sub-atomic level, then the theory is that by using our power
of intention, we can change our outcomes, including our outcomes at the deepest
cellular levels of health and wellbeing where, it is believed, all disease begins.
How does Theta Healing work?
Theta Healing therapy claims to work by taking the consciousness of the client into
the sub-atomic dimension by means of changing their brain wave function to that of
whats known as the theta state (In this, it is similar to shamanic healing therapy,
which has its own entry.)
Once in the theta state, the power of the intention of the mind is said to become
more potent, and subconscious thoughts that hold back our physical or emotional
wellbeing can be more easily identified and weeded out, or pulled up by their roots.
Thus Theta Healing claims to dig out the root of the health problem.
What can Theta Healing be used for?
Given the nature of Theta Healing therapy, if it works, its possibilities in terms of
health and wellbeing are endless, both on a physical and an emotional/mental
level. There is no limit to which conditions it can treat.
Is Theta Healing an effective form of therapy?
Practitioners of Theta Healing therapy claim that the positive effects of the therapy
are felt immediately. And their websites are full of testimonials from clients reporting
extremely positive and fast results.
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However, because no scientific research has been carried out into Theta Healing,
and quantum mechanics is still in its infancy, there is no objective proof of the
efficacy of this sort of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with Theta Healing?
There are no known side effects with Theta Healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on Theta Healing?
Theta Healing in UK
Theta Healing in the US
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Thought Field Therapy (TFT)

What is Thought Field Therapy?
Thought Field Therapy (or TFT) is an alternative treatment technique which uses
tapping with the fingers on a variety of points around the upper body and hands,
known as meridian points. This is a treatment which reputedly can be used to treat
and cure a huge variety of diseases, both mental and physical.
Thought Field Therapy was developed by an American psychologist named Roger
Callahan in the early 1980s. Having tried a number of different techniques to try to
rid a patient of their phobia, he experimented with tapping on the meridian points and
was reported to have immediate success.
He began testing this treatment on more of his patients who had phobias and other
conditions and when he found success he set about developing Thought Field
Therapy fully.
Although TFT itself has seen a certain level of success, another similar form of
therapy has since been developed which is based on the same principles of Thought
Field Therapy. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) was developed by Gary Craig
in the 1990s and uses the same meridian tapping idea. (You can read all about how
EFT works in its own entry.)
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How does Thought Field Therapy work?

Thought Field Therapy was named as such because its creator, Callahan, believed
that when we think about an experience or a thought which we associate with an
emotion, we are tuning in to a thought field and hence in our minds, a
predetermined reaction to a specific thought. Callahan further believes that these
concerns are directly related to negative emotions and that each one of them
corresponds to a particular meridian point.
By tapping a precise sequence on the meridian points, it is said to unblock
imbalances and the flow of Qi (the life force or human energy flow).
What can Thought Field Therapy be used for?
Thought Field Therapy can be used with a wide range of conditions including the first
condition reputedly cured with it, which was a phobia of water. Other conditions
which are claimed to be relieved or cured with TFT include trauma, addictions,
anxieties, weight loss, stress relief and stress management to name a few. There
have even been reports that TFT was able to cure malaria.
Is Thought Field Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Thought Field Therapy is considered to be an alternative therapy with little
substantiated proof as to its efficacy except for reports from its creator, Callahan,
and practitioners of TFT who claim success with many hundreds of patients.
The general consensus in the psychotherapy world is that this is not a valid form of
psychotherapy and that it verges on being classed as a pseudoscience.
However, as testimonies report, Thought Field Therapy has been successful with
some whether this is a result of the placebo effect or the tapping remains to be
seen.
Are there any known side effects with Thought Field Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Thought Field Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Thought Field Therapy?
Wikipedia entry on Thought Field Therapy
TFT website
Skeptics Dictionary entry on Thought Field Therapy
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Thrombolytic Therapy
What is thrombolytic therapy?
Thrombolytic therapy refers to the medicinal use of thrombolytic drugs which are
used in a procedure called thrombolysis.
Thrombolytic therapy is used to treat a number of potentially life-threatening
conditions where blood clots are a major factor.
How does thrombolytic therapy work?
Thrombolytic therapy uses special drugs, called thrombolytic drugs, to reduce and
limit blood clots which occur within the body. The most commonly used thrombolytic
drugs include streptokinase, urokinase and alteplase, all of which act to stimulate the
plasma proenzyme, plasminogen, which in turn produces more plasmin and thins the
blood, hence reducing any clots.
What can thrombolytic therapy be used for?
Thrombolytic therapy can be particularly useful as a form of treatment for a number
of conditions. Most commonly these include ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction
(also known as a heart attack), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and a pulmonary
embolism (which affects the lungs).
Thrombolytic therapy is most effective when used within a narrow timeframe
following the blood clot event. Within 90 minutes would be most effective, though
sometimes thrombolytic therapy can begin as much as six hours after the start of the
symptoms.
Is thrombolytic therapy an effective form of therapy?
Thrombolytic therapy is a very important and effective method of treatment for the
aforementioned conditions as it serves to break up the blood clot and reduce the
chances of further clots occurring. These clots can be life threatening if the blood
flow is blocked to the heart or lungs.
Are there any known side effects with thrombolytic therapy?
Although thrombolytic therapy is most effective if prescribed within a limited
timeframe after the onset of conditions, it is important that precautions are followed
as there is the risk of further complications developing (called contraindications) as
well as potential side effects developing at a later date.
For example, if a patient has received treatment with thrombolytic drugs in the past
(especially the drug called streptokinase) there is the possibility that they have built
up an allergy to the drug and will suffer a severe allergic reaction. Hemorrhagic
stroke is also a serious contraindication, although it is rare.
Patients need to take great care after receiving thrombolytic therapy. This is because
the blood has been thinned, and hence if a cut is suffered, the blood will have
difficulty clotting at the site of the wound (a process which would normally occur
naturally) and the wound will continue to bleed.
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Where can you find further information on thrombolytic therapy?
Vascular Web entry on thrombolytic therapy
Wikipedia entry on thrombolysis
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Time Line Therapy

What is Time Line Therapy?
Time Line Therapy is a type of emotional freedom therapy which concentrates on
disposing of negative emotions.
Time Line Therapy was developed by American, Dr Tad James who is a Master
Trainer of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP, which can be read about in its own
entry). It was through his work with NLP that he began to develop Time Line Therapy
in 1985. He created a number of techniques which allow the client to make changes
on a subconscious level.
Time Line Therapy has reputably become a very popular form of therapy because of
the speed at which it is said to work.
How does Time Line Therapy work?
Time Line Therapy is said to work with the individuals storage of memories and
shows natural and simple techniques which allow the client to release negative and
unpleasant feelings which constitute memories in their past.
This is achieved by identifying the cause of these emotions. Once you are shown
how to remove one you will be able to remove all of the subsequent ones too.
It is not specified how exactly this process takes place during a session of Time Line
Therapy.
What can Time Line Therapy be used for?
Time Line Therapy can be useful for people who suffer from everyday problems of
negative thoughts, unhappy emotions and unpleasant feelings which are often as a
result of past traumas and events. In addition, it can be used for treating the
conditions which often accompany these feelings when left unchecked, such as post
traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression.
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Is Time Line Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although supporters of Time Line Therapy suggest that this is an effective form of
therapy, no reference to unbiased research or study could be found, making it
difficult to conclude whether Time Line Therapy is an effective form of therapy.
It is not made clear exactly how Time Line Therapy works; only that it is based on
the principles of NLP. But NLP is mostly considered pseudoscience because there is
not enough evidence to suggest to the contrary.
Are there any known side effects with Time Line Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Time Line Therapy.
Where can you find further information on Time Line Therapy?
Worldwidehealth.com article on Time Line Therapy by a practitioner
The Tad James Company
The Time Line Therapy Association
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Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis

What is tongue and pulse diagnosis?
Tongue and pulse diagnosis refers to a technique for diagnosing illness which has
been used in Oriental medicine for thousands of years.
It is a technique which is far more advanced than simply taking a persons pulse and
noting down the numbers because when a trained practitioner takes your pulse, it
tells them much more about the health and functioning of the mind and body. A look
at a persons tongue can also tell a practitioner much about that persons general
health.
Over the past 300 or so years, as there have been more and more medical
advances, the method of pulse diagnosis in particular has declined in importance,
but it is still used as a tool for confirmation of a persons condition.
How does tongue and pulse diagnosis work?
Pulse diagnosis is made by measuring the pulse on the clients wrists both wrists
are used for best accuracy. The practitioner will use three fingers to take the radial
pulse the index finger, the middle finger and the ring finger and each finger is
positioned so that it can measure a different aspect of the pulse.
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In Chinese medicine, 28 different patterns, called pulse images, have been

identified. These are 28 patterns which indicate disease, suggesting that a
practitioner would have to be highly trained to be able to pick out 28 different pulse
images. Each pulse image is classified under four headings floating, deep, fast
and slow which helps to make further diagnosis.
Tongue diagnosis would appear to be a far more simple process. The tongue can be
observed for a variety of characteristics, such as colour, size, shape, surface,
contours and margins, and different parts of the tongue represent different organs of
the body. This means that by identifying an irregularity in one area of the tongue, a
practitioner can determine that a problem exists within the corresponding organ.
What can tongue and pulse diagnosis be used for?
Because tongue and pulse diagnosis is a form of diagnosis and not a treatment,
conditions cannot be directly treated with this method. However, it is said that by
using these methods, diseases can be detected at an early stage and with this
knowledge, a client can seek the relevant treatment.
Is tongue and pulse diagnosis an effective form of therapy?
This question should really read Is tongue and pulse diagnosis therapy an effective
form of diagnosis?
As these methods have been in use for thousands of years, you would tend to think
that there must be some effectiveness in them as a diagnostic tool otherwise they
wouldnt be used any more. However, with advancements in technology, science
and medicine, the best advice is to try to keep to a healthy lifestyle and have regular
check-ups. If you believe that something is wrong, go to see your doctor as soon as
possible. By all means, you can still see a practitioner who uses tongue and pulse
diagnosis, but this probably shouldnt be the only thing you do.
Are there any known side effects with tongue and pulse diagnosis?
There are no known side effects with tongue and pulse diagnosis.
Where can you find further information on tongue and pulse diagnosis?
HighBeam Encyclopaedia detailed entry on pulse diagnosis in Chinese medicine
HolisticOnline.com ayurvedic diagnosis
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Traditional Chinese Medicine

What is traditional Chinese medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine is frequently referred to as simply TCM and it
encompasses many different traditional medical practises, some of which have been
in use for thousands of years.
TCM, and its various individual forms of therapy, have seen a rise in popularity
around the world over the past few decades in particular, despite the fact that it is
seen in many countries as a form of alternative medicine and is, hence, not accepted
by the conventional medical world as a valid form of treatment.
But some TCM therapies are now becoming recognised for their effectiveness and
are becoming considered more as complementary forms of therapy.
TCM has developed over thousands of years to embrace many different theories
behind health and wellbeing, though the underlying philosophy is the belief that
human beings have a very complex relationship with the environment around them.
How does traditional Chinese medicine work?
Many of the therapies which are classified as being traditional Chinese medicine
work on the same principles, and that is that the human body is like a small universe.
What this means is that the human body is made up of a series of systems which all
work together to create balance and therefore to maintain health. To take the small
universe idea further, it means that if one aspect of the body is unbalanced, it has an
effect on the whole. This balance is often referred to as yin and yang, and the
bodys life force, or vital energy, known as Qi plays an important part in many of the
TCM therapies.
TCM also has its own model, or medical chart, of the body which is based on
meridians and the meridian system which in a sense ties the body together.
The TCM medical chart illustrates the meridian points on the body these are the
points which need manipulation in some way to restore balance and therefore wellbeing. You may hear these referred to as the acupuncture points even though the
therapy being discussed is not necessarily acupuncture.
Beyond the above generalisation, there are obviously differences in how the various
forms of therapy work. Some examples of therapies considered to be traditional
Chinese medicine include: acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion,
cupping and Qigong all of which have their own entries where you can read how
these work on an individual basis.
What can traditional Chinese medicine therapy be used for?
Because TCM is a complete medical system, there are really no boundaries as to
what it can be used to treat, and different forms of therapy will be good for different
forms of disease.
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Is traditional Chinese medicine an effective form of therapy?
TCM has been relied upon for thousands of years as the only form of medical care in
its country of origin, which would suggest that there must be some effectiveness for it
to have lasted this long, and for it to now be used to some extent around the world
also.
But TCM is considered to be an alternative medicine especially in many Western
countries where the emphasis is on science and proof of effectiveness, hence
opinion is divided.
Because acupuncture has become such a common form of treatment, much study
has been conducted as to its effectiveness. Results have been mixed, showing that it
can be good for some conditions, but not so effective for others.
Are there any known side effects with traditional Chinese medicine?
The likelihood of side effects really depends on what type of TCM is being used.
There are some precautions to be taken against possible risks with some forms of
TCM read the individual entries to find out more about these.
Where can you find further information on traditional Chinese medicine?
Wikipedia entry on traditional Chinese medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine World Foundation
Chinese Medicine Times CMTpedia
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Trager Approach
What is the Trager Approach?
Trager Approach therapy is classified as a type of mind-body intervention which uses
movement to achieve deep relaxation.
There are two aspects of Trager Approach therapy in use, which have arisen from
what was first developed by Milton Trager. At the age of 18, Trager recognised the
benefits whilst he was exercising, and spent the next 50 years refining the
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techniques. Although not a medical professional when he began, Trager worked first
as a lay practitioner then later studied and became a medical doctor.
In 1980, the Trager Institute was founded as a means of training and certifying
practitioners. A number of other organisations started up around the world, and in
2001, they all came under the banner of Trager International. This merger included
Trager UK and the United States Trager Association.
How does the Trager Approach work?
As mentioned above, there are two aspects to Trager Approach therapy. The first is
a passive approach in which the client lies on a padded table and receives a series
of touches from the practitioner. This is essentially a form of gentle massage which is
said to aid the bodys fluidity. The second, which would usually take place after the
first part of the session, is called Mentastics and it is during this time that the client
is taught how to engage in effortless movements.
What can the Trager Approach be used for?
It has been reported that Trager Approach therapy can be helpful in easing a number
of conditions as well as giving the client a sense of deep relaxation, improved
physical mobility and re-balancing of physical and mental patterns.
The conditions which may be helped through Trager Approach therapy include: back
and neck pain, stress and associated conditions such as headaches, fibromyalgia,
physical and emotional traumas, sports and other injuries.
Is the Trager Approach an effective form of therapy?
Although, or maybe because, the Trager Approach therapy was in development for
over 50 years, the technique does not appear to have had any substantiated
research conducted to prove its effectiveness.
The Trager website has testimonials, mostly from well-known individuals, stating how
good they think the therapy is. But without methodical research, it is difficult to say
just how effective it is. Also the views on the Trager website would tend to be biased
towards the positive.
Are there any known side effects with the Trager Approach?
There are no known side effects with Trager Approach therapy, though it is advised
that any medical conditions are discussed with the practitioner prior to beginning a
session.
Where can you find further information on the Trager Approach?
Trager International
Trager UK
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Transcendental Meditation
What is Transcendental Meditation?
Transcendental Meditation is also known simply as TM, and it is a type of meditation
technique which is said to bring enlightenment and relaxation as well as having
various other health benefits.
TM was developed by Indian-born Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (born Mahesh Prasad
Varma) in 1955, when he begun teaching meditative techniques which he named
Transcendental Meditation. From 1956 onwards, the number of followers increased
hugely and rapidly across India, and then spread around the world as famous
personalities, such as The Beatles, became interested in the technique.
The Maharishi moved to the Netherlands, and in 1990 established an organisation
called the Global Country of World Peace with an aim of coordinating all of the
Transcendental Meditation teaching centres which had opened around the world. It
is reported that more than six million people worldwide have been trained in the
Transcendental Meditation technique since the 1950s. In the UK, there are a
reported 200,000 people who have been trained and there are 80 centres teaching
Transcendental Meditation.
How does Transcendental Meditation work?
In order to learn how Transcendental Meditation works, it is necessary to take a
training course. In the UK, at present, it takes place over four consecutive days of
about 90 minutes each day. On completion of this course, there are then follow-up
sessions on the next three consecutive months.
Because Transcendental Meditation is taught via a paid-for instruction course, there
is no detailed information on the internet about how TM actually works. What it is
said to produce is a state of restful alertness which is achieved in a simple manner.
It does not involve concentration, religion, or a way of life and is said to be very easy
to learn.
Adults practice the Transcendental Meditation technique twice a day for twenty
minutes each time.
What can Transcendental Meditation be used for?
There have been many studies into what Transcendental Meditation can be used for.
The most obvious use is for relaxation and the benefits this can bring, such as
reductions in respiration, heart rate and blood pressure. What is strange is that
although the body experiences relaxation, the mind actually becomes more alert as
EEG measurements have shown that brain functioning increases. This is the benefit
which first interests many people in Transcendental Meditation because it is a
special state of consciousness which has been associated with enlightenment and
bliss.
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Positive results from studies have linked Transcendental Meditation with decreased
use of cigarettes and alcohol, reduction of high cholesterol, a decrease in insomnia,
reduced overall illness and doctor visits, and decreased anxiety levels.
Is Transcendental Meditation an effective form of therapy?
There have been a great many research studies into the effectiveness of
Transcendental Meditation, beginning in the 1970s. Published results have tended to
show positive effects with a variety of different conditions (as mentioned above),
indicating that TM is an effective form of therapy.
However, there are also criticisms with Transcendental Meditation. The first major
criticism is regarding the cost of learning the technique, and many people ask why it
should be priced so high. Leading on from this is the fact that many similar relaxation
techniques can be learnt for very little financial output, such as the cost of a book,
and in the end, Transcendental Meditation is essentially a glorified version of simple
relaxation techniques.
The fact that there has been so much research into TM is largely due to the fact that
this form of therapy is well-known and has had much publicity over the years. What
this does not necessarily indicate is that Transcendental Meditation is any more
effective than any other relaxation technique.
Are there any known side effects with Transcendental Meditation?
In general, there are no side effects with Transcendental Meditation. However, there
are reports amongst some people who have found themselves to be dazed after a
session and expressing more anger than they usually would do so. This is said to be
as a result of releasing repressed stresses and may be experienced by people who
have only recently started practicing TM.
Where can you find further information on Transcendental Meditation?
Transcendental Meditation UK
BBC.co.uk h2g2 entry on Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental Meditation official website
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Transpersonal Therapy
What is transpersonal therapy?
Transpersonal therapy is a type of therapy which has stemmed from the theory of
transpersonal psychology. It is concerned with the transpersonal, transcendent or
spiritual aspects of human life considered by some to be the superconscious mind
and hence tapping in to our highest potential.
Transpersonal psychology is said to have emerged from the works of a number of
psychologists, including William James, Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and Abraham
Maslow amongst others, though William James is purported to have first used the
term transpersonal in 1905. It was not until the 1960s that the work of Maslow really
forged the way for a distinct school of Transpersonal Psychology.
Use of transpersonal psychology is being overlapped to a certain extent with New
Age movements because of the mysticism and somewhat different theories involved.
In addition, it has been confused with parapsychology because of the spiritual
elements.
In terms of the use of transpersonal psychology as a form of therapy, it has been
used for counselling. There has also been the emergence of a somewhat alternative
field of transpersonal therapy, which merges it with healing and hypnotherapy. It is
this that will be discussed in more detail here.
How does transpersonal therapy work?
Transpersonal therapy aims to explore the superconscious mind to bring about a
heightened state of awareness of our self and hence enable us to bring about selfgrowth. This is achieved by accessing inner guidance, and a session may involve a
number of techniques, such as hypnosis, to allow such things as past-life regression.
Transpersonal therapy recognises the person as a whole; a combination of the
physical body, the mind, emotions and spiritual ideals.
What can transpersonal therapy be used for?
Transpersonal therapy does not bring about healing in the physical sense of the
word, but in the mental and emotional sense. By achieving a heightened sense of
self, it gives the client the capability to take better control of their life and to achieve
personal growth and development. Once this happens we are said to be able to
control and bring about the healing which is required.
All of this enables us to live happier and hence healthier lives.
Is transpersonal therapy an effective form of therapy?
Transpersonal psychology is criticised from a scientific point of view and is not a
hugely popular school of psychology. As a form of therapy, it is unclear as to whether
transpersonal therapy does have any real or lasting effects.
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Are there any known side effects with transpersonal therapy?
There are no known side effects with transpersonal therapy.
Where can you find further information on transpersonal therapy?
The Centre for Transpersonal Psychotherapy
SelfinLight.com article on transpersonal therapy
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Trigger Point Therapy

What is Trigger Point therapy?
Trigger Point therapy is a type of massage therapy designed to give relief from pain
which is as a result of taut muscle and fascia.
It is called Trigger Point therapy because the pain is not necessarily experienced at
the point of the problem. In other words, there is a trigger point and it is this which
causes pain to radiate out. Hence, there may not appear to be any outward signs of
problems at the point where the pain is being experienced.
Dr Janet Travell first used the term trigger point in 1942 to describe her findings of
conditions with characteristics such as pain which cannot be explained and a painful
point at which a lump or band in the muscle can be felt.
Today, Trigger Point therapy is used as part of the treatment process by some
chiropractors and massage therapists. But, in general, Trigger Point therapy is not
accepted as a mainstream form of therapy.
How does Trigger Point therapy work?
Before treatment it is important to determine that a trigger point is definitely the
cause of the pain. Usually if there is evidence of swelling and/or discolouration then
the cause is likely to be something else.
Trigger Point therapy may use a number of different massage techniques. These
may include manual manipulation, known as Myofascial Trigger Point therapy which
would be given by a trained Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist. Other treatments
include myotherapy and also the use of mechanical stimulation such as vibration,
pulsed ultrasound and electrostimulation.
Once the trigger points have been treated and deactivated, the therapist will then
aim to stretch the muscles and fascia which have been affected.
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What can Trigger Point therapy be used for?

Trigger Point therapy is designed specifically for the treatment of pain caused by
active trigger points.
There are several theories as to why trigger points become active in the first place,
including over-activeness caused by adrenalin stimulation, or the result of a muscle
overload which causes the cells to stick together.
Is Trigger Point therapy an effective form of therapy?
As mentioned earlier, Trigger Point therapy is not a widely used form of treatment
and there is debate as to diagnosis, for example, disagreement as to what actually
constitutes a trigger point. There are also some concerns over safety (discussed
below).
However, two recent studies apparently present groundbreaking findings which
should reduce some of the controversies around myofascial trigger points. If these
are substantiated then Trigger Point therapy will likely become more recognised for
its effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with Trigger Point therapy?
If Trigger Point therapy is administered by a well trained therapist there should not
be any side effects or risks. However, this therapy is often self-treated and may also
be treated by those un-experienced in the technique. If this is the case, there are
possible risks of damage to soft tissue and other organs, for example, points around
the kidney should be treated very carefully so as to avoid kidney damage. There is
also the opinion amongst some experts that trigger points have been activated
because they are protecting unstable joints and hence releasing the trigger points
could have adverse effects.
Where can you find further information on Trigger Point therapy?
The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook a self-treatment guide
National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists
Wikipedia entry on Trigger Points
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Tui Na
What is Tui Na therapy?
Tui Na is a type of manipulative therapy which is practiced as part of traditional
Chinese medicine (TCM) and has hence been in use for over 2,000 years.
Originally the technique was called Anmo and was widely used across China and in
other Eastern countries. However, in 1949 it was recognised by the Chinese
government as being medically important and was renamed Tui Na. Tui meaning
push and Na meaning grasp. The original name of Anmo is still used in some
Eastern countries and also to refer to a non-medical form of massage.
Today Tui Na is a hugely popular form of treatment in China and has spread and
gained in popularity in the West too. Although it has similarities to acupressure
(which you can read about in its own entry) and is often mistaken for this, the two
therapies are not the same.
How does Tui Na work?
Tui Na therapy is a hands-on technique of manipulation which can be used on the
whole body. As the translation of the name suggests, there is much pushing and
grasping, as well as kneading using the knuckles, palms and fingers though
sometimes implements are also used.
Tui Na is said to remove blockages from the bodys meridians and hence encourage
the flow of energy, or Qi, and blood, so that natural healing can take place. This
principal is very similar to many other massage therapies used in TCM, but Tui Na is
recognised in China for its medical benefits. The manipulation used is often deeptissue work and is quite forceful and even painful; hence it would not be considered
as a form of massage for pleasure or relaxation.
Treatment will take place around an affected area, and will usually be directed at the
relevant acupressure points. Sessions can last from ten minutes to more than an
hour and most often the client will remain fully clothed, though sometimes removal of
some clothes may be required.
What can Tui Na be used for?
There are many conditions which are said to be treated with success using Tui Na.
These include: repetitive strain injury (RSI), frozen shoulder, insomnia, stress, sports
injuries, headaches and migraines, constipation, diarrhoea, low energy levels,
stroke, sciatica, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain and cramps.
Tui Na therapy can be used on all age groups, including infants and children.
Is Tui Na an effective form of therapy?
Tui Na is recognised by the Chinese government for its medical importance and
there are Tui Na departments in the majority of Chinese hospitals. So this would tend
to suggest that Tui Na is an effective form of therapy.
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However, although gaining in popularity in the West, because Tui Na is based on
what are considered to be alternative theories, there is scepticism as to its
effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with Tui Na therapy?
There should be no major side effects after a session of Tui Na therapy. The only
consideration is perhaps some soreness as some sessions, depending on what is
being treated, can be quite forceful.
Where can you find further information on Tui Na?
CHIS UK article on Tui Na
Tui Na UK
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U
Unconditional Positive Regard
What is Unconditional Positive Regard?
Unconditional Positive Regard is a type of psychotherapy which is often used by
humanist psychologists, and one which involves the showing of respect and
acceptance to the client in order to improve their chances of personal growth.
The Unconditional Positive Regard approach was suggested by American
psychologist Carl Rogers in the 1950s. Rogers was one of the founders of
humanistic psychology a type of psychology which is more concerned with the
human element. In other words, the person is not just a collection of behaviours
which can be classified and treated. He is an individual person who deserves to be
respected and accepted for who he is, without necessarily having to change, and
that he has his own capacity for self-growth.
How does Unconditional Positive Regard work?
The main principle behind Unconditional Positive Regard therapy is that the
counsellor must respect the client. This respect will be in the form of being nonjudgemental, non-evaluative, and without criticism or ridicule, thereby accepting the
client and their shortfalls. In addition they will express their own understanding of
what the client is disclosing.
In this way, the Unconditional Positive Regard therapist does not necessarily agree
with the behaviour of the client, and does not change their own opinions or values,
but the key is that they do not demand that the client changes or becomes perfect.
Their imperfections are accepted, which gives rise to the name of this approach
that the client is seen in an unconditional and positive light, regardless of what they
look like or what they have done.
Once the client understands this Unconditional Positive Regard they have a much
better chance of accepting themselves for who they are and hence can begin their
own personal growth.
What can Unconditional Positive Regard be used for?
Unconditional Positive Regard therapy would generally be used for treating people
with behavioural issues. In addition, it can be used with more general forms of
counselling, such as family therapy and for those who have emotional and
psychological conditions relating to feelings of a lack of self-worth.
Is Unconditional Positive Regard an effective form of therapy?
There are criticisms of Humanistic Psychology in general and issues relating to
social and political status quo, and what should be accepted as normal. These
criticisms can be extended to this Unconditional Positive Regard approach because
although the client may be made to feel more accepted for what they are, this should
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not be seen as condoning their behaviour, and this is where the controversy lies.
However, the basic principles behind this therapy do appear to have at least some
level of effectiveness.
Are there any known side effects with Unconditional Positive Regard?
There are no known side effects with Unconditional Positive Regard.
Where can you find further information on Unconditional Positive Regard?
Wikipedia entry on humanistic psychology
Counselling Resource article on person centred counselling
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V
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (or simply VRT) is a type of therapy which treats
the vestibular system. The vestibular system is the balance system situated within
the labyrinth of the inner ear, which affects movement and balance. It sends signals
to control the movement of our eyes and to the muscles that keep us in an upright
position.
The vestibular system can be affected by illness and when this happens our
equilibrium is impacted causing dizziness and discomfort.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy was introduced in the 1940s by Cawthorne and
Cooksey who developed a number of exercises which are used as part of the
treatment programme.
How does Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy work?
The normal practice in Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy involves a process called
adaption. Adaption has the aim of retraining the brain to recognise the signals it is
receiving from the vestibular system and process these in coordination with the
information from vision and proprioception.
Because the Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy exercises work best when individually
prescribed, a therapist will first evaluate the patient to determine which exercises
would be best for the conditions being experienced and devise an individual
treatment programme.
Often the exercises will initially increase the symptoms as the brain tries to make
sense of what is happening, but as it does so the symptoms should decrease.
It is said that Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy is not a quick-fix treatment and can in
fact take many months to completely rid the patient of the conditions. Often some
improvement is seen after about three months.
What can Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy be used for?
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy would usually be prescribed in the case of
someone who has suffered an illness which has affected the vestibular system. For
example, this might be labyrinthitis, which is an inflammation of the labyrinths of the
ear.
It is suggested that Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy can only be used for stable
conditions, such as labyrinthitis, though not for another common ear problem called
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) as this is a fluctuating condition and
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would have to be treated by surgery prior to starting Vestibular Rehabilitation
Therapy.
Is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy has been in use for over 60 years it is not
used as widely as might be expected and reports suggest that healthcare
professionals can be reluctant to prescribe this therapy over medication.
However, research has shown that Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy is an important
part of treating vestibular system problems and that generally patients show an
improvement of between 70-80 per cent. Unfortunately though, complete recovery
does not always occur and some patients respond better than others. It does also
depend on the extent of the problem in the first place.
Are there any known side effects with Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?
There are no known side effects with Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy apart from
the often increase in symptoms when treatment first starts.
Where can you find further information on Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?
Vestibular Disorders Association information on Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
Wikipedia entry on the vestibular system
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Vibrational Healing Therapy

What is vibrational healing therapy?
Vibrational healing therapy, or vibrational medicine, refers to a number of different
therapies which all work on the principle that the human body is made up of an
interconnected energy field. When the energy field becomes blocked or unbalanced
it causes problems within the body and leads to disease. Vibrational healing therapy
takes this idea slightly further in that it purports that the human energy field vibrates
at a certain resonance, therefore, by tapping in to the correct frequency it is believed
that this can be re-set.
Vibrational healing therapy is generally considered to be an alternative technique
because of the lack of scientific evidence that human energy fields do exist and that
if they do, there is no proof that they have a direct effect on health.
Some of the therapies considered to be a form of vibrational medicine include:
radionics, crystal healing and sound therapy.
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How does vibrational healing therapy work?

As briefly described above, vibrational healing therapy works on the assumption that
the human energy field resonates at a certain frequency. When the body is healthy,
this frequency is at its optimal level, allowing energy to freely flow and allowing our
natural immune system to fight any disease which tries to attack the body.
The frequency of the energy field can become disrupted and therefore blocked,
leading to disease. Healers are said to be able to re-tune and re-balance the energy
field using a variety of different techniques. Crystal healing (which you can read
about in its own entry) for example, uses crystals which resonate at different
frequencies. (Sound therapy and radionics techniques can also be read about in
their own entries.)
What can vibrational healing therapy be used for?
Based on the theory behind vibrational healing therapy, it would appear that really
any disease could potentially be treated with this. In addition, vibrational healing
therapy is purported to promote overall good health and well-being.
Is vibrational healing therapy an effective form of therapy?
Vibrational healing therapy is based on very alternative ideas which are not
supported by the mainstream medical community. As such there is little evidence to
support the main principle that there is in fact a human energy field, and hence there
is little evidence to suggest that it is an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with vibrational healing therapy?
There are no known side effects with vibrational healing therapy.
Where can you find further information on vibrational healing therapy?
The Vibrational Healing Foundation
Positive Health Magazine article on vibrational healing
To A-Z
Visceral Manipulation Therapy

What is visceral manipulation therapy?
Visceral manipulation therapy is a type of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM),
similar to myofascial release but concentrating on the interior organs of the body,
and especially the abdomen.
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As with other types of OMM, visceral manipulation therapy attempts to improve
somatic dysfunction. This is the function of the musculoskeletal system. It is
considered to be a complementary form of medicine, and as such it would rarely be
advised that this method alone is used.
Andrew Taylor Still is recognised as the founder of modern osteopathic medicine in
the late 19th century, though visceral manipulation therapy was developed more
recently by French osteopath and physiotherapist, Jean-Pierre Barral.
How does visceral manipulation therapy work?
Visceral manipulation therapy is a gentle technique which works to enhance the
mobility and tissue motion of our internal organs situated within the chest and
abdomen, so this may include the liver, the heart, the lungs, the stomach and the
intestines.
This is said to work because all of the organs are connected by tissues and hence if
one organ becomes misaligned it puts stresses on the rest of the body because the
tissues are being pulled and stretched more than they should be.
This, in turn, results in pain being felt in other areas of the body, not necessarily at
the site of the organ with the initial problem. Tissues themselves can also become
inflamed due to infection, emotional stresses or direct trauma, and visceral
manipulation therapy would treat these problems also.
What can visceral manipulation therapy be used for?
As explained, visceral manipulation therapy is used on the visceral organs of the
body and more specifically those within the chest and abdomen. Treatment takes
place within this area of the body but this can have a direct impact on pains which
are being felt within different parts of the body because these are all connected
together.
Is visceral manipulation therapy an effective form of therapy?
Osteopathic medicine in general, although widely practiced throughout the world, is
still considered by many to be an alternative form of therapy. At best it is
complementary, and is recommended for use with other more conventional methods
of healing, and not generally for use just on its own.
There is little evidence of research having been conducted on the effectiveness of
visceral manipulation therapy. And if you take this under the wider umbrella of OMM,
it would appear that there may be some effectiveness, though not enough that this
should be your only form of therapy if health problems exist.
Are there any known side effects with visceral manipulation therapy?
There are no known side effects with visceral manipulation therapy though there are
precautions which should be followed. A trained osteopath should first have an indepth consultation prior to starting treatment, which should include medical history
and importantly whether you are pregnant.
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Where can you find further information on visceral manipulation therapy?

International Alliance of Healthcare Educators information on visceral manipulation
therapy
The Insiders Guide to Body Therapies visceral manipulation
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Visualisation Therapy
What is visualisation therapy?
Visualisation is a process which is often linked to meditation, though it does not have
to involve meditative techniques. It is also similar to guided imagery therapy (which
you can read about in its own entry). But whereas guided imagery therapy works
mainly on achieving relaxation, visualisation can be used for a much wider variety of
goals. Visualisation may also be referred to as mental imagery and the two appear
to be interchangeable.
Visualisation has been in use in one form or another for thousands of years and has
been linked to spiritual and religious practices. It is used for many different reasons,
such as visualising yourself free of a disease (as the Navajo Indians are purported to
have done), and for visualising success and changes in lifestyle. This type of
visualisation is called creative visualisation and will be discussed in more detail
here.
How does visualisation therapy work?
Creative visualisation is a form of self-help therapy, though could also be performed
with the guidance of a counsellor or therapist. In the last decade or so, creative
visualisation as a self-help technique has become popular because it is easy to do
and accessible for everyone.
Creative visualisation works on the principle that our thoughts can control the
environment around us. For example, somebody who is always having negative
thoughts, such as Im going to fail this exam, more often than not will fail it because
they have gone in with the wrong attitude and set themselves up for failure. It is
giving up in a sense. On the other hand, someone who enters the exam with a
positive attitude is more likely to do well.
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A search on an internet search engine will bring back many results describing
various creative visualisation techniques and exercises you can complete. The basic
principle will be similar to the following:
First, bring yourself into a state of relaxation. Once youre fully relaxed, start to
visualise images and events. And then move on to forming a mental image of
something that you want to achieve, such as a goal in life. This could be losing
weight, for example.
Its stated that when you first try creative visualisation, that you start with visualising
goals which are easier to achieve. Then once you build confidence you will find it
easier to visualise and achieve more difficult goals.
What can visualisation therapy be used for?
Creative visualisation appears to be a very powerful technique which could be used
for just about everything you want to achieve in your life. To name a few examples,
this could be getting a better job, having a successful career, finding love, being
happy. It can also be used for relaxation by visualising a calming place and for
health. It is said that by visualising yourself healthy and doing things that healthy
people do, it can actually affect your body and help you rid it of disease.
Is visualisation therapy an effective form of therapy?
Although the theory behind creative visualisation may sound very alternative to some
the fact that you can think yourself healthier, or richer, or more successful there
is actually some scientific, or biological, basis in this. Add to this, the hundreds of
self-help books and other media available to buy in this field, and this would suggest
that there must be a certain level of effectiveness with creative visualisation.
Are there any known side effects with visualisation therapy?
There are no known side effects with creative visualisation.
Where can you find further information on visualisation therapy?
Essortment.com creative visualisation techniques
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W
Watsu
What is Watsu?
Watsu is the name given to water shiatsu, a bodywork technique which is based on
shiatsu, but one that takes place entirely in the water.
American therapist Harold Dull began to develop Watsu in 1980. At the time he was
director of the Harbin School of Shiatsu and Massage in California, so was very
familiar with shiatsu practices. But Dull saw the potential for the benefits this therapy
could bring when performed in the water. So he began to develop the technique,
incorporating aspects of Zen shiatsu.
Watsu is increasing in popularity in the Western world, although there are still only a
handful of practitioners using it in the UK. The technique is also constantly evolving
as Dull continues to develop it.
How does Watsu work?
Watsu takes place in a warm-watered swimming pool (usually around 35 degrees
Centigrade or 95 degrees Fahrenheit). The practitioner supports the client
throughout the process who is lying back, with their face kept above the water. The
client closes their eyes and begins to relax. The practitioner then guides the client
through a series of tailor-made movements (tailor-made to suit the needs of each
client). These include stretches which are gentle in nature and timed with the clients
breathing pattern.
Watsu is said to work well because of the influence of the water. Water enables the
client to become much lighter and hence they are easily supported by the
practitioner. With lightness and the warmth of the water it enables the client to relax
far more easily than in other settings, giving added benefit to the body.
What can Watsu be used for?
Watsu reputably works to encourage the flow of the bodys life force through the
meridians (the system which carries energy around the body). In this respect, it
uses the same principles as shiatsu in that it aims to push the bodys energy and
immune system to become balanced and working efficiently, so that the client has
the potential to use their own natural healing powers. In this respect, Watsu can be
used for overall health and well-being.
In addition, it is said that Watsu is good for alleviating headaches, anxiety, tension
and fatigue and for improving energy levels, circulation, respiration, sleep patterns,
motility and for reducing stress.
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Is Watsu an effective form of therapy?

Watsu is a relatively new form of therapy and has not, as yet, risen to the popularity
levels that shiatsu has around the world. This means that there has been little or no
study into its true effectiveness.
However, shiatsu is becoming more and more recognised and studies are under way
to prove its effectiveness as a therapy. Seeing as Watsu is based on the same
principles, it may be safe to assume that it should be at least as effective as shiatsu.
Are there any known side effects with Watsu?
There are no known side effects with Watsu.
Where can you find further information on Watsu?
Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association
Hydro Health Introduction to Watsu
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X
There are no therapies beginning with the letter X.
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Y
Yoga
What is yoga?
Yoga began as a philosophy and spiritual practice in ancient India about 5,000 years
ago and has developed into a number of different branches since this time. The most
popular branch outside of India is called hatha yoga, and this is the type of yoga
which is most commonly performed in the Western world as a form of exercise, body
awareness, relaxation and sometimes for use with meditation.
Yoga is a Sanskrit word which has many meanings, though the generally used
translation is union as this refers to the union of mind, body and spirit, which can
occur during the practice of yoga.
Hatha yoga was introduced by Yogi Swatmarama in the 15th century. His intention
for devising this form of yoga was said to be to prepare the body so that it was fit for
practising higher levels of meditation, because physical purification was thought to
be essential for this. Today, in the Western world, the practice (which is commonly
just referred to as yoga) is undertaken to achieve mental and physical health and
although all based on hatha yoga, a number of different styles and methods have
been developed over the past century. This means that you can learn different
methods depending on what exactly you would like to get out of yoga.
How does yoga work?
As mentioned above, a number of different methods of yoga have been developed
over the years. Hence, when you are looking for a yoga class, it is important that you
understand what type of yoga is being taught.
Typically a yoga class will begin with relaxation and centring, there will then be a
time for limbering up so that the muscles and joints are given the chance to warm
up before the posture exercises, known as asanas.
The yoga postures, or asanas, will vary from class to class and depend on the
teacher. The aim is to strengthen and tone the body so as to improve the flow of
energy whilst freeing the mind, so that meditation can take place if desired.
Yoga promotes mind-body awareness and breath work is an important part of this,
encouraging awareness and relaxation of the breath. These breathing exercises are
then developed further so as to control and move prana, the life-force energy,
through the breath and the body.
What can yoga be used for?
A good many of the people who practice yoga in the Western world do so to develop
body tone and strength, and then continue to go to classes to retain and maintain
that. In addition to body tone and strength, yoga also enables relaxation and is said
to be good for alleviating stress.
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Yoga is really a holistic approach. This means that it is not only good for the physical
body but for the mind and spirit also. However, it can be used by people who have a
specific physical condition that they want addressing, and there are also yoga
classes which have been developed specifically for pregnant women, and for those
people who are less able-bodied.
In addition, yoga has also been used as a complementary therapy for treating
various conditions, including cancer, diabetes, AIDS, asthma and irritable bowel
syndrome.
Is yoga an effective form of therapy?
Because yoga is such a popular form of therapy in the Western world, the number of
studies being conducted is increasing. These studies tend to concentrate on the
effectiveness of yoga as a supplementary therapy when performed alongside
conventional medicine, and analyse whether yoga is effective in reducing stress
levels, lowering blood pressure, helping with sleep patterns etc. Results have shown
that yoga is partly effective in these respects.
With regards to yoga as a form of exercise, the fact that it is becoming so popular
would tend to suggest that there must be a high level of benefit achieved by going to
yoga classes. The numbers speak for themselves as it is estimated that about five
million Europeans practise hatha yoga and about 30 million Americans.
Are there any known side effects with yoga?
Generally there are no side effects with yoga, although injuries can be incurred by
people stretching their limits too quickly. As long as you work within the boundaries
of capability for your body, and ensure that you limber up enough, this should remain
a safe form of exercise.
Where can you find further information on yoga?
Wikipedia entry on Hatha Yoga
Wikipedia entry on yoga as an exercise or alternative medicine
Hatha Yoga Lessons
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Yuen Method
What is the Yuen Method?
The Yuen Method is a form of Chinese energetic healing which is said to take the
ancient principles of Chinese energy medicine and combine them with modern
medical knowledge used in the Western world. The full title is the Yuen Method of
Chinese Energetics.
The Yuen Method technique was developed by Dr Kam Yuen, a chiropractor, who is
said to have studied a number of disciplines before developing this therapy. The
Yuen Method works on the principle that when pain is experienced within the body, it
is a sign that a problem exists in the natural flow of energy.
How does the Yuen Method work?
The Yuen Method is said to work differently to most other forms of energy healing.
Usually energy healing techniques direct their attention to blockages in the flow of
energy acupuncture, for example, aims to free the energy flow. But supporters of
the Yuen Method point out that acupuncture does not necessarily actually address
the cause of the problem in the first place and hence the underlying problem could
still exist. The Yuen Method on the other hand, does do this.
So the Yuen Method hones in on the cause of the problem. In addition it is said to
bring all levels of consciousness in agreement with each other. Without this
happening, supporters believe that humans cannot reach their full potential, and that
dysfunction cannot be corrected because otherwise it has not been corrected on all
levels.
What can the Yuen Method be used for?
The Yuen Method is said to be capable of providing instant results in the treatment of
virtually all forms of disease whether these are the effect of physical, mental or
spiritual problems.
Actual diseases and conditions which are stated on the official website as having
been treated include: all musculoskeletal pains, arthritis, emotional and
psychological disorders, allergies, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities and neurological
disorders, amongst others.
If this list can be taken as proof of what the Yuen Method can be used to treat then
there would appear to be very few boundaries as to its range of treatable conditions.
Is the Yuen Method an effective form of therapy?
There are many exceptional claims on the official website as to what the Yuen
Method has been used to treat, though how effective it was at treating these
conditions is not specified. Hence it is unclear whether the Yuen Method actually
completely cures the disease or just eases the associated discomfort.
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In addition, although these conditions are stated as being treatable, there is no
evidence to prove that they are, and there is no mention of scientific research having
been carried out.
Without unbiased testing of the Yuen Method on the aforementioned conditions, it is
difficult to state whether or not this treatment is actually an effective form of therapy.
Are there any known side effects with the Yuen Method?
There are no known side effects with the Yuen Method.
Where can you find further information on the Yuen Method?
Yuen Method official website of Dr Yuen
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Z
Zero Balancing
What is Zero Balancing?
Zero Balancing is a form of holistic and complementary therapy which works with
both a persons energy and their skeletal structure. It is non-invasive and although
Zero Balancing uses touch, it is not manipulative but gentle.
Zero Balancing therapy was developed by American Dr Fritz Smith, who originally
trained as an osteopath. When Dr Smith witnessed an acupuncture session being
performed in the early 1970s, his medical way of thinking was challenged, leading
him to want to find out more about energy work. After training as an acupuncturist,
he began to look for a way of combining both Eastern and Western healing practices
and developed Zero Balancing based on the belief that the relationship between
energy and structure is fundamental to health.
Dr Smith teaches Zero Balancing techniques to practitioners around the world,
including the United Kingdom and the United States.
How does Zero Balancing work?
As Dr Smith had intended, Zero Balancing is a combination of both Eastern and
Western healing ideas. Thus, it combines the theory of the human energy field
(which is so important in Eastern medicine) with the structure of the body (which is
more commonly concentrated on in Western medicine).
Hence Zero Balancing aims to restore energy flows and align the physical structure
so that both are working in complete harmony with each other. Once this is
achieved, it is said that a person can function at their optimal level.
The technique for accomplishing this uses gentle finger touch whilst the client
remains fully clothed. The practitioner stretches and holds the client, applying gentle
pressure. It is said that deep tension can then be released as this point of stillness
which is held by the practitioner allows the body to re-align itself.
What can Zero Balancing be used for?
Zero Balancing is said to promote both physical and emotional well-being, giving our
bodies the opportunity to use their natural healing process. In addition, Zero
Balancing purports to be effective in relieving pain and releasing tensions and
traumas, both emotional and physical as well as being able to improve all-round
body functioning.
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Is Zero Balancing an effective form of therapy?
Because Zero Balancing uses alternative theories, there is scepticism amongst the
more conventional medical world as to the effectiveness of this type of therapy. This
scepticism is based on the scientific lack of evidence as to there actually being a
human energy field, and without this, there is really little proof as to the effectiveness
of Zero Balancing.
However, Zero Balancing is presented as a complementary form of medicine,
indicating that it may be helpful when used in conjunction with other treatments. But
without medical studies on this technique, it is difficult to say for sure just how
effective it is.
Are there any known side effects with Zero Balancing?
There are no known side effects with Zero Balancing.
Where can you find further information on Zero Balancing?
The Zero Balancing Health Association
The Zero Balancing Association UK
CHIS-UK article on Zero Balancing
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Glossary
Here is a glossary of terms you often come across in complementary therapies with
their definitions. To find a specific term, just use the A-Z.
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
A
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that involves the fear of experiencing a panic
attack in a place or situation from where escape may be difficult or embarrassing.
Agoraphobia is generally associated with the fear of being out in the open, but that
isn't strictly true. People suffering from agoraphobia are more often fearful of places
where they are crowded in.
Situations involving being in a crowded building, a long hallway, a large, open place
or any unfamiliar territory can be intensely disturbing, making the sufferer feel
exposed and unprotected.
Go back
Allergens
An allergen is a normal substance that causes an acute defensive reaction in a
person's immune system, whereby the immune system recognises the allergens as
foreign or dangerous.
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Alzheimers disease
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting both men and
women.
It was first noted by neurologist Alois Alzheimer as a physical disease that affects the
brain.
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Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that causes loss of memory and other

intellectual abilities that are serious enough to interfere with daily life. Gradually, over
time, more parts of the brain are damaged, causing the symptoms to become more
severe.
At present, the exact cause or how to stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease is
still unknown.
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Analgesic consumption
Analgesic consumption is where an analgesic or painkiller is taken orally. An
analgesic is any member of the diverse group of drugs used to relieve pain.
Analgesic drugs act in various ways on the peripheral and central nervous systems.
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Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock is an allergic reaction to an allergen that can be
fatal within minutes; either through swelling that shuts off airways or through a
dramatic drop in blood pressure.
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Anchoring
Anchoring is a technique where an association is created between two separate
elements where none existed before. Anchors are subtle and powerful, especially
when they are attached to a strong emotion. The stronger the emotion, the stronger
the anchor.
People subconsciously form some type of anchor in everyday life. For instance, you
may hear a favourite old song playing on the radio. As you listen to it, your mind is
transported back to the very first time you heard it and what it meant to you then.
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Argyria
Argyria is a blue/grey skin discoloration resulting from excessive exposure to silver.
Silver metal workers, people who mine silver and people who take colloidal silver
supplements can all develop this rare non-toxic condition.
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Arthritis/osteoarthritis
Arthritis is a general term that simply means a painful condition of the joints.
There are at least 200 specific forms of the condition. They range from those related
to wear and tear of cartilage (such as osteoarthritis), to those associated with
inflammation resulting from an overactive immune system, (such as rheumatoid
arthritis). The causes of arthritis vary, depending on the type of arthritis, but they can
include injury and infections or be hereditary.
Symptoms of arthritis include pain and tenderness limiting functions of joints, and
inflammation characterised by joint stiffness, swelling, redness and warmth.
The treatment of arthritis is very dependent on the precise type of arthritis present
and range from physical therapy to anti-inflammation medication and even surgical
operations.
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Attention Deficit Disorder /Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
are defined by two types of behavioural problems; inattentiveness, and a
combination of hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Common symptoms include a short
attention span, restlessness, being easily distracted and constant fidgeting.
It can be a lifelong condition, and many children who have it continue to suffer from
symptoms through adolescence and into adulthood. There is no cure for
ADD/ADHD. But it can be managed using medication, and should be accompanied
by psychological, educational and social therapies.
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Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or syndrome is an increasingly popular term that
refers to a broad definition of autism. This includes the classical form of the disorder,
as well as closely related disabilities that share many of the core characteristics of
autism but may not be as severe or extensive.
Autism is a brain development disorder that usually manifests during infancy or
childhood. It is distinguished not by a single symptom, but by a multitude of
symptoms. It can be characterised by impaired social interaction and
communication, and by restricted and repetitive behaviour.
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Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are where the body's own immune system is fighting other
cells in the body that might not be diseased, and this can cause inflammation and
pain. It may affect many parts of the body, like nerves, muscles and the digestive
system.
Most autoimmune diseases cannot yet be treated directly, but are treated according
to symptoms associated with the conditions.
Autoimmune disorders fall into two general categories:
those that damage many organs (systemic autoimmune diseases), for

example, rheumatoid arthritis
those where only a single organ or tissue is directly damaged by the
autoimmune process (localised), for example ulcerative colitis
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Autonomic control system

The autonomic control system is part of the peripheral nervous system, and has the
important function of maintaining the internal environment of the human body in a
steady condition.
As various changes occur to the body both internal and external this control
system reacts by regulating such things as the blood pressure, heart rate and salts in
the blood stream and so on.
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The autonomic control system, as the name implies, generally works automatically
without voluntary control, as we do not consciously direct our rate of breathing or
heart beating.
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B
BHRT
Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) and sometimes known as
Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy is a process where hormones are restored
to their age-appropriate physiological levels.
BHRT is the process of safely optimising hormones to a level appropriate to the
individuals age. This can be preferable to using supplements that often restore the
hormones to exceed normal levels.
Bio-identical hormones have exactly the same structure and properties as those that
occur naturally within the body. So they will have the same effect on the body as the
original hormone.
BHRT can be effectively used to successfully treat many types of hormone
deficiencies, including testosterone and oestrogen.
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Biophysics
Biophysics applies the principles and techniques of physics to biology.
Biophysicists use physics and its related sciences of chemistry, electrical
engineering, mathematics and computer science for research.
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Bioptron
The Bioptron Light Therapy System is a worldwide-patented light therapy medical
device.
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It has a specific optical unit that emits light that is similar to the part of the
electromagnetic spectrum that is produced naturally by the sun but with no UV
radiation.
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Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder or as its sometimes known, manic depression is a lifelong
condition. Its an illness that causes shifts in a person's mood, energy and ability to
function.
Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings from overly high to sad and
hopeless and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between.
Severe changes in energy and behaviour go along with these changes in mood. The
highs are called episodes of mania and the lows are called episodes of depression.
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Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining in the bronchial tubes, which is the airway
that connects the windpipe to the lungs. When bronchitis is contracted, it is often
painful and difficult for air to pass through in and out of the lungs when breathing.
The main sign of bronchitis is a cough, which brings up mucus that can be caused
either by a virus, or by exposure to irritants such as dust and fumes, or cigarette
smoke.
The majority of cases of bronchitis stem from viral infections, and require nothing
more than treatment of the symptoms to relieve discomfort.
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Bulimia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa or more commonly known as just bulimia is an eating disorder
where there is an intense dread of putting on weight.
Bulimia is most common in teenage girls and young women, although anyone can
develop the illness at any age.
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Bulimia is often not noticeable until associated health problems develop. Symptoms
may include:
episodes of craving for food and binge eating, after which sufferers can feel
guilty and may make themselves vomit
feeling of being too fat and generally dissatisfied with physical appearance
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Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa.
A bursas function is to decrease friction between two surfaces that move in different
directions.
Everyone has hundreds of bursas, which are tiny fluid-filled sacs scattered
throughout the body that provide a slippery surface, which has almost no friction.
A problem arises when a bursa becomes swollen and inflamed. This can be a result
of a repetitive movement or due to prolonged and excessive pressure, an injury,
infection or an underlying rheumatic condition.
The bursa loses its gliding capabilities, and becomes more and more irritated when it
is moved. The major bursas are located near the large joints, such as the shoulders,
elbows, hips, and knees.
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C
Candida
Candida is a yeast-like organism that lives naturally in small amounts in your mouth,
gastrointestinal tract and skin.
With a properly functioning immune system, the body's natural defence against
fungal and yeast infections is the production of friendly bacteria that keeps it under
control.
However, if the number of friendly bacteria is decreased, the immune system is
weakened. This allows the candida to change from yeast to a fungus and start to
invade the body and thus cause a multitude of health problems.
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The spread of candida produces harmful toxins in your body and has a serious effect
on your health.
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Carcinogenic
Carcinogenic is the term used to describe a substance that is capable of causing
cancer.
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Cardiology
Cardiology is the branch of medicine primarily focusing on the heart, as well as the
circulatory system, and involves the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular
illnesses.
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Carpal tunnel syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow pathway of ligament and bones (carpal bones) at the
base of the hand.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve, which runs from the forearm into the
hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. This nerve controls sensations to
the palm side of the thumb and fingers (apart from the little finger), as well as the
impulses to some small muscles in the hand that allow the fingers and thumb to
move.
Sometimes, thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling can narrow the tunnel
and causes the median nerve to be compressed. The result may be pain, weakness,
or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm.
The cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is not clear. It is thought that some
inflammation develops in a tendon going through the carpal tunnel that causes
swelling. There is little space to expand in the narrow tunnel, and this may lead to
pressure on the nearby median nerve.
Inflammation can occur if you excessively use your hand.
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Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common in manual workers. It can be hereditary,
where a close family member has also had the condition. Bone or arthritic conditions
of the wrist such as rheumatoid arthritis or wrist fractures may lead to carpal
tunnel syndrome.
Other conditions associated with carpal tunnel are: pregnancy, obesity, an under
active thyroid, diabetes, the menopause and rare diseases, and it can also be a side
effect of some drugs.
Rare causes include cysts, growths, and swellings coming from the tendons or blood
vessels passing through the carpal tunnel.
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Cauterising
Cauterising is the process of creating burns on tissue to either close wounds, stop
bleeding or to remove part of the body.
This practice seals wounds and stops bleeding because the heat makes the blood
clot.
In modern medicine, the burning of the tissue is usually achieved either by the use of
electricity or with chemicals.
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Cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy ranges from mild to severe, and it is a general term used to describe
a group of conditions that cause movement problems.
The underlying problem is damaged or faulty development in a part of the brain that
usually occurs sometime before birth.
If someone has cerebral palsy, it means that they are not able to control some of the
muscles in their body in the normal way.
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Chakras
The word chakra is derived from a Sanskrit word that means wheel. It refers to the
seven energy centres in our body of which our consciousness and energy system is
composed.
Chakras are not considered to be physical; they are seen as the openings for life
energy to flow into and out of our aura.
Their function is to regulate the flow of energy through our energy system, helping to
revitalise the physical body and to bring about the development of our selfconsciousness in order that the mind and physical body can work together.
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COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a general term that includes the
conditions chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Sufferers of COPD, which is usually
caused by smoking, experience restricted airflow to the lungs and symptoms include
coughing and breathlessness. The best and most important treatment is to stop
smoking.
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Contraindications
A contraindication refers to the risk of side effects involved in taking a particular drug
or undergoing a certain medical procedure. Some contraindications are known as
absolute contraindications this means that the client is at severe risk if they take
the drug and, therefore, it shouldnt be prescribed.
But other contraindications are known as relative contraindications. In these cases,
there may be a risk of side effects, but the risk of not taking the drug or undergoing
the procedure will be far more detrimental to the health of the client.
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Crohns disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines, but is closely
related to another chronic inflammatory condition that involves only the colon called
ulcerative colitis.
It primarily causes ulcerations of the small and large intestines, but can affect the
digestive system anywhere from the mouth to the anus.
The most popular theory of what causes Crohns disease is that the bodys immune
system reacts abnormally, mistaking bacteria, foods and other substances as being
foreign.
The immune systems response is to attack these invaders. During this process,
white blood cells accumulate in the lining of the intestines, producing chronic
inflammation.
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Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a severe condition associated with inadequate oxygen in the blood
supply.
As we breathe our lungs take in oxygen that goes into our blood. Sometimes, the
body has trouble getting enough oxygen into its cells. This can be due to various
severe illnesses that inhibit circulation or oxygen intake for example, a lung or a
heart problem. Then cyanosis can occur, causing the skin, inside of the mouth, lips
or fingernails to turn a bluish colour. A form of localised cyanosis can also occur in
areas of poor circulation, such as the hands and fingers.
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Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease of the mucus and sweat glands. It affects
mainly the lungs and pancreas, but it can also affect other parts of the body including
the liver, nose and sinuses and reproductive organs. Normally, cells in these parts of
the body make mucus and other secretions. Sufferers with cystic fibrosis have cells
that do not function correctly, making mucus and secretions thicker than normal.
The symptoms of cystic fibrosis usually develop within the first year of life, but may
not appear until later childhood. The severity of symptoms can vary and include:
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persistent cough which produces a lot of sputum

recurring chest infections
repeated infections and inflammation can damage the lungs and lead to poor
lung function
shortness of breath and breathing difficulties
wheezing
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D
Dermatology/dermatitis
Dermatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on skin conditions, sweat glands,
hair and other related body parts.
Dermatitis is an inflammation or redness of the skin. It is either the result of damage
caused by an irritating chemical or substance or an allergic reaction to a substance.
It can often accompany other allergic diseases, such as hay fever and asthma, but
may also occur alone.
The rashes are often very itchy, peeling, thickened, sometimes weeping and typically
present in the creases of joints and about the trunk. It may fluctuate both seasonally
and over the course of the day. Scratching may lead to bleeding and infection.
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Divination
Since time immemorial, man has felt the need to predict the future.
But the way divination differs from fortune telling is that divination takes a more
spiritual approach to seeking and interpreting the results, whereas fortune telling is a
more everyday practice.
The history of divination is intertwined with human history as every great human
civilisation had its own divination methods.
Man's need to see into the future ensures that even today this ancient science still
lives on.
Divination works by predicting the future after analysing certain "signs".
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But before you can read the actual sign, you have to know where to look. Different
people had different views on what should be considered a sign and how to interpret
it, and this led to a series of methods of divination. Some of these methods are listed
below:
astrology by celestial bodies

augury by the flight of birds
bibliomancy by books
cartomancy by cards
palmistry by palms
gastromancy by crystal ball
hydromancy by water
feng shui by Earths harmony
numerology by numbers
oneiromancy by dreams
onomancy by names
ouija board divination
rhabdomancy divination by rods
rune casting/runic divination by runes
pyromancy by fire
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DSPS
Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a disorder that occurs when a person
regularly cannot fall asleep at their desired bedtime.
It often starts in adolescence, although in some cases it can begin in childhood
years. It is rare that it starts in someone older than thirty.
Those who experience this syndrome often take two or more hours to fall asleep.
This not only often results in difficulty waking at the desired time, but also in
insufficient amounts of rest.
It is considered a debilitating condition because the sufferers sleep patterns do not
adhere to the body's biological cycle that normally recurs at 24-hour intervals.
Because of the inability to sleep at night, DSPS sufferers are often excessively
sleepy during the day, which interferes with their every day activities.
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Dyslexia
Dyslexia is mainly defined as a problem with literacy skill. It is associated specifically
with learning difficulties that include reading, writing and spelling. And it can affect a
number of areas, including memory, organisation and concentration.
Dyslexia can be characterised by difficulties in processing words, sounds and by
weaknesses in short term verbal memory. Its effects may be seen in spoken
language as well as written language, and it can also influence mathematical skills.
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Dyslipidemia
Dyslipidemia is abnormal concentrations of lipids or lipoproteins (naturally occurring
molecules, such as fats, oils, waxes and cholesterol) in the blood. It is very common
among people with Type 2 diabetes.
Dyslipidemia has no symptoms, so the diagnosis is made through blood tests.
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Dysphoric
Dysphoric is generally characterised as a state of feeling unwell or unhappy. It can
also include suffering from experiences of intense emotional and mental discomfort
such as sadness, anxiousness, irritability, or restlessness.
Dysphoric is the exact opposite of euphoric where you feel 'on top of the world'.
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Dyspnea
Dyspnea is a breathing disorder that makes breathing difficult, and can make the
sufferer feel as though he or she is suffocating or fighting for air. It is frequently
associated with problems either in the lungs or the heart.
Someone with dyspnea may experience this condition in a variety of ways.
Some patients find it difficult to draw in breath, while others have trouble exhaling. It
may be difficult to move air through the lungs.
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Or it may be possible to inhale and exhale normally, but the patient may feel starved
for air because the capacity for air diffusion in the lungs has been diminished.
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Dysthymic disorder
Dysthymic disorder is a fairly common type of depression. It presents itself as an
almost daily-depressed mood, but without the necessary criteria for a major
depression, which lasts for at least two years. It is usually mild or moderate
depression, rather than severe.
Dysthymic disorder generally occurs during early adulthood, although it can also
occur in children and adolescents.
Its onset is gradual, so it is difficult to accurately recall the exact time when it begins.
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E
Eczema
Eczema is a dry skin condition that makes patches of your skin become dry, red and
itchy. It can occur on just about any part of the body. However, in infants, eczema
typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck.
Scratching can make the skin bleed, and can also make the eczema worse.
Sometimes the skin can become thick and scaly. It is a highly individual condition, it
varies from person-to-person and it comes in many different forms. But it is not
contagious so you cannot catch it from someone else.
In mild cases of eczema, the skin is dry, scaly, red and itchy. In more severe cases,
there may be weeping, crusting and bleeding.
Constant scratching causes the skin to split and bleed and also leaves it open to
infection.
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Efficacy
Efficacy quite simply means a product or services effectiveness or ability to produce
the desired results as claimed.
From a healthcare point of view, it means the capacity for beneficial change, thus
creating the therapeutic effect.
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Electroencephalography
Electroencephalography is a neurological test that uses an electronic monitoring
device to measure and record electrical activity in the brain.
It is used in the diagnosis and management of epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
But can also be used to assist in the diagnosis of brain damage and diseases, which
include strokes, tumours, sleep disorders and degenerative diseases such as
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
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Electrolyte imbalance
Electrolytes are the chemicals in our blood stream that regulate the important
functions of our bodies. When electrolytes dissolve in water they separate into
positively and negatively charged ions. Nerve reactions and muscle function all
depend on the proper exchange of these electrolyte ions inside and outside cells.
Electrolyte imbalance may be triggered by:
dehydration
diarrhoea
high fever
inadequate diet and lack of vitamins from food
kidney disease
loss of body fluids from prolonged vomiting
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Electromagnetic field
Natural electromagnetic fields are present everywhere in the environment but are
invisible to the human eye. Electric fields are produced by the build up of electric
charges in the atmosphere. The Earth's magnetic field causes a compass needle to
point in a North-South direction and is used by birds and fish for navigation.
Man-made electromagnetic fields include X-rays, and the electricity that comes out
of every power socket has associated low frequency electromagnetic fields. Various
kinds of higher frequency radio waves are used to transmit information, for instance
TV antennas, radio stations or mobile phone base stations.
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Electromyogram
An electromyogram (EMG) measures the electrical activity of muscles.
The electrical signals are measured using an electrode over the skin and recording
the sound made when impulses are fired.
This procedure can also be done using needles inserted directly into the muscle.
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Elevated jugular venous pressure

Jugular venous pressure is the indirectly observed pressure over the venous system.
It can be useful in determining the different forms of heart and lung disease.
Elevated jugular venous pressure is a sign of pulmonary hypertension and venous
hypertension (right sided heart failure).
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Embolism
An embolism is an obstruction in a blood vessel. An embolism occurs when an
object or objects move from one part of the body to another by circulating through a
blood vessel.
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Blood clots form the most common material that causes embolism. Other possible
materials include fat globules and air bubbles (an air embolism), to name a few.
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Emesis
Emesis is quite simply an alternative name or description for vomiting.
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Endocrinologist
Endocrinology is the branch of medicine that diagnoses and treats diseases of the
endocrine system.
The endocrine system is a matrix of hormone secreting glands in the human body.
An endocrinologist studies how hormones are made, how they travel through the
body, how the body processes them and how they break down.
Conditions that can relate to the endocrine system include:
adrenal and pituitary gland disorder

cholesterol disorders
diabetes
hormonal disorders
hypertension
low blood pressure and weight problems
osteoporosis
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Endorphins
Endorphins are chemicals that are produced within our bodies that achieve a lot of
positive things for us. Primarily they help control pain. They can also elevate our
moods. Endorphins are the feel good hormones, so with an increased endorphin
release there is usually an elated positive feeling.
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Enema
An enema is a procedure used for clearing the bowel and colon.
The enema introduces a liquid, usually water and sodium bicarbonate or sodium
phosphate, by means of a bulb or enema bag, which is attached to a long thin tube
that is inserted into the anus.
As the liquid travels from the enema bulb or bag through the tube, it enters the anus
and then moves on into the colon. This helps stimulate the bowel to release faecal
matter.
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Enzymes
One of the factors that define a living thing from an inanimate object is its ability to
carry out chemical reactions that are crucial for its survival. None of these reactions
are possible without enzymes.
Enzymes are not living things, but are biological catalysts or assistants consisting of
various types of proteins that work to drive the chemical reaction required for a
specific action or nutrient.
Enzymes can either launch a reaction or speed it up. The chemicals that are
transformed with the help of enzymes are called substrates.
There are two types of enzyme. Some help join specific molecules together to form
new molecules, and others that help break specific molecules apart into separate
molecules.
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Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which nerve cells in the brain sometimes send out an
abnormal signal.
These nerve cells also known as neurons normally generate electrochemical
impulses that act on other neurons, glands, and muscles to produce human
thoughts, feelings, and actions.
With epilepsy, the normal pattern of activity becomes disturbed, causing strange
sensations, emotions and behaviour sometimes leading to convulsions, muscle
spasms, and loss of consciousness.
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Epilepsy is not contagious and is not caused by a mental illness and virtually anyone
can have a seizure under the right circumstances.
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EDTA
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a synthetic solution that is used to pull
toxins from the bloodstream.
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Extravasation
Extravasation is an injury caused by leakage of solutions from the vein to the
surrounding tissue spaces during intravenous administration.
For example, most chemotherapy is applied via an injection by a needle or a fine
tube into a vein. If some of the chemotherapy drug leaks from the needle or fine tube
near to where it enters the body into the skin and other tissue immediately around
the injection site, extravasation can occur.
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F
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes aches, pain, stiffness, and tenderness
of the muscles, tendons, and joints. It is characterised by restless sleep, awakening
feeling tired, fatigue, anxiety and depression.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is at present unknown. But despite potentially
disabling body pain sufferers of fibromyalgia do not develop body damage or
deformity. Fibromyalgia can occur by itself. But it is more prevalent with people that
have other diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and other types of arthritis.
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Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes restriction of motion in the shoulder joint
and can be intensely painful. It is one of the commonest causes of shoulder pain and
affects women more than men. In addition, diabetics have more shoulder pain and
frozen shoulder complaints than the rest of the population.
Frozen shoulder can occur after an injury or prolonged immobilization of the
shoulder, such as after surgery or an arm fracture. Being diabetic may cause the
immune system to attack the healthy parts of the body, in this case the capsule and
connective tissue of the shoulder. Even other health conditions such as heart
disease and lung disease may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
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G
Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and treatment
of disorders of the digestive system. It focuses on the conditions affecting the
stomach, oesophagus, intestines, and associated organs including the pancreas,
liver, and gallbladder.
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Gastrointestinal
The digestive tract is the system of organs that takes in food, digests it to extract
energy and nutrients, and expels the remaining waste.
There is an upper gastrointestinal tract and a lower gastrointestinal tract that forms
part of the system. The upper gastrointestinal tract consists of the mouth, pharynx,
oesophagus, and stomach. The lower gastrointestinal tract comprises the intestines
and anus.
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Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve at
the back of the eye is slowly destroyed.
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Everyones eyes produce a fluid like water which then flows around inside the eye to
a front chamber. From this front chamber, the fluid leaves the eye by entering a
drainage network that then enters the bloodstream.
In the most common type of glaucoma, this drainage network can become blocked,
causing the fluid to trap in the eye, resulting in the pressure inside the eye increasing
too much.
The pressurised fluid reduces the blood flow in the tiny blood vessels in the optic
nerve, at the back of the eye, where the nerve may become damaged, and
eventually the sight may be affected.
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Godai
The godai are five elements.
These elements are represented in ascending order of power Earth, Water, Fire,
Wind and the last one is Void when referring to the elements, but can mean
sky in most other contexts, and therefore sometimes is translated as "Heaven".
Sometimes a sixth element is added, representing Consciousness.
The most common representations today of the five elements are found in Buddhist
architecture. Many pagodas in Japan are of the Goj-no-T style, meaning they have
five tiers or levels. Each tier, naturally, represents one of the elements.
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Gynaecology/gynaecological
A gynaecological condition is any condition that affects the female reproductive
organs.
A gynaecologist is a consultant whose specialty is dealing with the health of the
female.
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H
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver usually caused by an acute viral infection.
There are many causes of hepatitis, some more serious than others, these include
medication side effects, excessive alcohol, some types of toxic chemicals, disorders
of the gall bladder or pancreas, and infections.
One of the major signs of hepatitis is jaundice.
Symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the cause of the illness and how much
of the liver has been damaged. In mild cases, many people do not show any
symptoms at all or may have flu like symptoms that can include:
diarrhoea
fever
loss of appetite
muscle aches
nausea
tiredness
vomiting
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Hippocrates
Hippocrates was born in Greece in 460 BC and is perhaps history's most famous
physician.
He rejected superstition in favour of scientific observations, classifying diseases, and
by creating a set of moral and professional standards for physicians. From all this
work, he earned the title of 'Father of Medicine.'
He also gave the world the Hippocratic Oath, a code of ethics for physicians that is
still taken by graduates at many modern medical schools.
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Hives
Hives are a kind of skin rash that is raised, often itchy, red bumps on the surface of
the skin.
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They are usually an allergic reaction to food or medicine or even insect stings. But
the large majority of cases are not allergic, and no specific cause for them is ever
found.
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Hodgkins lymphoma
Hodgkins lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system originating from a type of
white blood cells called lymphocytes. It is sometimes called Hodgkin disease.
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Holistic
Holistic medicine integrates conventional and alternative therapies to help prevent
and treat diseases, and promote optimum health.
Holistic medicine can be best described as the art and science of healing that
encompasses the whole person, their mind, body, and spirit.
The word holistic comes from the word whole. This system of medicine addresses
all parts of the individual, not just the physical aspect of a person where the illness or
conditions are most apparent.
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Holotropic
The word "holotropic" was created by Dr. Stanislav Grof, and is derived from the
Greek words "holos" and "trepein," meaning "moving toward wholeness."
Holotropism represents growth. It is an evolution of consciousness as separate
individuals move towards uniting into a whole that harmonises with the one universe.
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Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is a state of too much muscle activity or where a particular part of the
body is too active.
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It is a physical state in which a person is abnormally and easily excitable, restless or

has excessive movement, physical activity or movements that have no purpose.
Hyperactivity is sometimes associated with ADHD.
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Hyperglycaemia
Hyperglycaemia develops when there is too much blood sugar, or glucose, in the
bloodstream; it is a symptom and cause of diabetes.
One of more of these warning signs may tell you that have high blood sugar:
blurred vision
dry mouth or skin
frequent urination
hunger even after eating
increased thirst
slow healing of cuts and sores
tiredness or fatigue
unexplained weight loss
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Hypertension
Hypertension which means high blood pressure increases the risk of heart
attacks, strokes, kidney failure and damage to the eyes.
It causes the heart to work harder than normal, putting both the heart and arteries at
greater risk of damage. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against blood
vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the arteries that carry the blood throughout
the body. There are no external signs of hypertension, so many people may have it
for years without noticing.
The exact causes of hypertension are not fully understood. But there are several
factors and conditions that may help in its development, some including:
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being overweight
chronic kidney disease
family history of high blood pressure
genetics
lack of physical activity
old age
smoking
stress
too much alcohol consumption
too much salt in the diet
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Hypoxia
Hypoxia means low oxygen, and is a state of oxygen deficiency in the body that is
sufficient to cause an impairment of function.
For example, altitude sickness can be a hazard for aviators and mountaineers,
where hypoxia develops gradually.
Symptoms of hypoxia depend on its severity and acceleration of onset. They include
headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, a feeling of euphoria and nausea.
Hypoxia can cause damage to the brain.
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I
Insomnia
Insomnia comes from the Latin word, which means "no sleep" or the inability to sleep
(in "no" and sinus "sleep"). It is the most well known type of sleep disorder that
people experience.
It may be caused by stress, change in usual sleep pattern or an underlying medical
condition. It can be short-term or long-term. A sleeping pill can be effective for shortterm insomnia, but not for long-term insomnia. For many, insomnia happens once in
a while. However for some, it can be a chronic problem. Symptoms of insomnia can
include:
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awakening frequently during the night

awakening very early in morning
difficulty maintaining sleep
difficulty to fall asleep even if you feel very tired
lack of daytime energy even experiencing drowsiness and fatigue
short temper
trouble thinking clearly
unable to stay focus

waking up feeling unrepressed, even after having eight hours sleep
Poor sleep for any length of time can lead to mood disturbances, lack of motivation,
decreased attention span, trouble with concentration, low levels of energy and
increased fatigue.
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Interferons
Interferons are naturally occurring proteins that are produced by the immune system.
They direct the immune system's attack on viruses, bacteria, tumours and other
foreign substances that may invade the body.
Once the interferons have detected and attacked a foreign substance, they alter it by
slowing, blocking, or changing its growth or function.
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Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional disorder that affects the
digestive system. It causes abdominal pain, diarrhoea and constipation. There is no
cure, but most people can learn to control and live with their irritable bowel.
The exact cause of IBS is not clear, but it may have something to do with overactivity of parts of the gut. With over-activity, the brain may send mixed messages to
the gut, causing it to over respond. Also intolerance to certain food types may play a
part in some cases.
An infection or bacteria in the gut by way of a virus or other germ may
'sensitise' or 'trigger' the gut in some way to cause persisting symptoms of IBS. IBS
is not caused by an ongoing gut infection. Even under examination, the gut appears
normal and there are no immediate signs of anything wrong.
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IVF
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a process that occurs outside the biological body.
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A method of assisted reproduction, it involves surgically removing an egg from the
ovary. The egg is then fertilised by sperm outside the woman's womb in an artificial
environment.
Thus, IVF simply means the fertilisation process that occurs under lab conditions.
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L
Light visor
The light visor is a head-mounted light source that looks something like a tennis
visor.
The visor is designed to give people mobility during light therapy sessions and
portability for travel situations.
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Lymphatic system
The lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts and nodes. Lymph nodes are found
throughout the body, act as filters or traps for foreign particles and contain white
blood cells.
The lymphatic system transports a clear fluid called lymph. Lymph means clear
water and it is basically the fluid and protein that has been squeezed out of the
blood.
Lymph distributes immune cells and other factors throughout the body. It also
interacts with the blood circulatory system to drain fluid from cells and tissues.
The lymphatic system contains immune cells called lymphocytes, which protect the
body against viruses and bacteria that invade the body.
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M
Meniere s disease
Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear and can result from fluctuating
pressure of the fluid within the inner ear.
It can cause episodes of vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), a feeling of fullness or
pressure in the ear, and fluctuating hearing loss. At the present time, there is no cure
for Menieres disease, but there are ways to manage the condition and help control
symptoms.
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Menopause
Menopause is simply the name given to the very last menstrual period. With the
onset of the menopause, ovaries stop producing eggs, periods begin to stop and
hormone levels change, signalling an end to a womans reproductive years.
Because all women are individual, their experiences can contrast dramatically. Some
women notice little difference in their bodies or moods, while others find the change
extremely disruptive.
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Meridians
Meridians are invisible channels through which magnetic energy circulates
throughout the body.
Pathways of Qi and blood flow through the body. Qi flows continuously from one
meridian to another. Any break in the flow is an indication of an imbalance.
The meridian system can be likened to a network of highways, roads and streets that
link major cities. The highways (meridians) and the cities (organs) make up an entire
energy map (the body).
It is through this system of roadways that energy (Qi) flows.
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Metaphors
A metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase that ordinarily means one
thing is used to mean another.
Being a form of description by use of comparison, describing one experience in
terms of another, and by doing this it can specify ways of thinking about the original
experience.
This influences the meaning and importance of the experience, the way it fits with
other experiences, and actions taken as a result.
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Motility
Motility is a term that refers to movement, having the ability to move spontaneously
and actively, consuming energy in the process.
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Mugwort herb
Mugwort is a European plant that can grow up to 18 feet (6 metres) in height, and
can now be found wild all over the world.
Traditionally, it was used as a healing herb and to flavour some foods and
beverages.
Like many herbs, mugwort was believed at one time to have mysterious properties,
and it was often planted along roadways since it was supposed to provide good
fortune to travellers.
Many herbalists used mugwort to treat a wide range of symptoms ranging from
digestive problems to menstrual irregularity.
Folklore also held that mugwort placed under the pillow or burned in the bedroom
would bring vivid, intense dreams.
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Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system.
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Its an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the central
nervous system, affecting the ability of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to
communicate with each other.
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Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a genetically inherited condition where slow, progressive,
muscle wasting leads to increasing weakness and disability.
There are over 20 types of this muscular disorder, each differing in their symptoms
and severity. Most types of muscular dystrophy are very rare, but cause mutations in
the genes that are responsible for the structure and functioning of a person's
muscles.
The mutations bring about changes to the muscle fibres, and interfere with their
ability to contract.
As muscle contraction plays an essential part in the functioning of muscles, muscular
dystrophy often results in severe disability.
Sufferers may have difficulty walking or even standing, clumsiness, frequent falls and
breathing problems. The range and severity of symptoms varies depending on the
type of muscular dystrophy.
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Musculo-skeletal
The musculoskeletal system allows us to move using the muscular and skeletal
systems, by providing form, stability, and movement to the human body. It is made
up of the body's bones (the skeleton), muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints
and other connective tissue.
The musculoskeletal system's primary functions include supporting the body,
allowing motion, and protecting vital organs.
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Myalgic encephalomyelitis
Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) also known as chronic fatigue syndrome is a
condition that is almost impossible to diagnose and doctors only have the patients
word to rely on concerning the symptoms. ME affects the whole system and has
many symptoms, the main one being intense fatigue far beyond normal tiredness. An
ME sufferer typically describes being utterly drained of energy or as though they are
being pinned down, with even the smallest movement being an immense effort.
Other symptoms include an inability to sleep well, to the point where tiredness is not
relieved by rest or sleep, and a flu like feeling along with a sore throat and enlarged
glands. This condition can be so intense that it can actually make sufferers feel ill,
causes aching joints and muscles, and often pain. It can also affect the memory, the
ability to think clearly, and to concentrate.
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Myopathy
Myopathy means neuromuscular disorders in which the primary symptom is muscle
weakness due to the dysfunction of muscle fibre, which usually come to our attention
because we develop weakness or rapid fatigue in the muscle during activities when
we use our limbs.
Certain drugs can produce toxic myopathy, as can alcohol, steroids and street
drugs.
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N
National Health Service
The National Health Service (NHS) is the name commonly used to refer to the
publicly funded healthcare systems of the United Kingdom.
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Neurology
Neurology is the branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and treatment of
disorders affecting the brain, spine, nerves in the arms and legs and disorders
affecting muscles.
Some of the conditions and symptoms neurology covers include:
Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia

disorders affecting walking and movement
dizziness and blackouts
epilepsy and seizures
headaches and migraine
memory problems
multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory disorders of the nervous system
Parkinson's disease
stroke
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Neuromusculoskeletal
The neuromusculoskeletal system is where the nervous, muscular and skeletal
systems interlink with each other.
Every aspect of the body is controlled by the nervous system. So muscles, bones
and nerves are intimately linked to allow optimal health of every organ and tissue in
the body.
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Neuropathic
Neuropathy describes a condition in which a person suffers from peripheral nerve
damage often associated with an underlying disease, whereby the symptoms are
usually the only method of diagnosis.
There are many different neuropathic causes, ranging from diabetes to poisoning.
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Neurosis
Neurosis covers a variety of psychological or behavioural disorder in which anxiety is
the primary characteristic, usually with an underlying emotional stress issue. The
types of disorders can include:
depression
dissocialise disorder
obsessive compulsive disorder
post-traumatic stress disorder
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New Age
The term New Age actually has its roots in astrology, but is best described as a
broad movement of late twentieth century and contemporary Western culture
characterised as an individual spiritual exploration.
It has some attributes of a new, emerging religion, but is currently a loose network of
spiritual seekers, teachers, healers and other participants.
The name New Age also refers to the market segment in which goods and services
are sold to people in and outside of the movement.
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O
OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that causes people to
have unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and to repeat certain behaviours
(compulsions) over and over again. However, these patterns of behaviour get in the
way of their daily lives. Most know that their obsessions and compulsions make no
sense, but they can't ignore or stop them.
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Oncology
Oncology is the branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and treatment of
cancer.
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Oocyte aspiration
During IVF (in vitro fertilisation) treatment, the process used to collect the eggs from
the female is known as oocyte aspiration. This is where the eggs are usually
retrieved by ultrasound guided needle aspiration through the vagina.
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Orthopaedic
Orthopaedics is the branch of medicine that focuses on injuries and diseases to the
body's musculoskeletal system.
This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the term used to describe the condition where the bones
particularly those of the spine, wrist, ankle and hips become thin and weak
through the progressive loss of minerals, mass and density, and are prone to break
easily.
The bones become porous and brittle and often there are no warning signs before a
break occurs. The condition is caused because more bone cells are lost than
replaced, so bone density decreases.
It mainly affects women after the age of the menopause, although men can have it.
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P
Palliative care
The aim of palliative care is to achieve the best quality of life for patients and their
families who are faced with a life-threatening illness.
Many aspects of palliative care are also applicable earlier in the course of the illness
in conjunction with other treatments, and they focus on increasing comfort through
prevention and treatment of suffering.
It is designed to prevent and relieve symptoms so that you can get on with daily life.
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Pancreatitis
The pancreas is a narrow, flat organ located deep in the abdominal cavity, behind
the stomach and below the liver, which produces digestive juices that help the body
absorb carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Pancreatitis can be an acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas.
Acute attacks often are characterised by severe abdominal pain that radiates from
the upper stomach through to the back and can cause effects ranging from mild
pancreas swelling to life-threatening organ failure.
Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive condition that may involve a series of acute
attacks, causing intermittent or constant pain as it permanently damages the
pancreas.
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Parapsychologist
Parapsychology is the branch of psychology concerned with the study of
extrasensory perception and psychic experiences of phenomena that are
inexplicable by modern Western science.
The areas of study of a parapsychologist include:
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psycho kinesis
telepathy
precognition
clairvoyance
reincarnation
haunting
poltergeists
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Parkinsons
Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition affecting movements such as
walking, talking, and writing. It is named after Dr James Parkinson who first identified
Parkinson's as a specific condition.
With Parkinson's, there is a loss of nerve cells in the brain. These cells are
responsible for producing a chemical known as dopamine, which allows messages to
be sent to the parts of the brain that co-ordinate movement. With the depletion of
these cells, parts of the brain are unable to function normally.
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Peptic ulcers
Peptic ulcers are ulcers that form in the stomach or the upper part of the small
intestine. An ulcer which is basically a sore is an open and painful wound. The
symptoms are often described as indigestion, heartburn and a feeling of hunger.
Some sufferers find that eating actually helps settle the discomfort for a while; others
find it makes it worse. Citrus drinks, spicy and smoked foods can increase the
discomfort.
The warning signs include:
difficulty swallowing
persistent nausea and vomiting
unintended weight loss
anaemia
sudden, severe and incapacitating abdominal pains
Peptic ulcers are curable with a treatment that combines two different kinds of
antibiotics and acid suppressors.
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Peripheral oedema
Peripheral oedema is the swelling of tissues usually in the lower limbs, i.e. feet and
ankles, due to the accumulation and retention of fluids.
There are numerous causes that may lead to peripheral oedema, with treatments
ranging from water tablets to medication using prescription drugs.
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pH balance
pH stands for power of hydrogen and is the measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a
solution. pH balance is achieved when our blood and tissues are pH neutral In
other words, when our bodies are nourished and hydrated and are rid of waste and
toxins. The body needs to maintain a balanced pH to prevent illness, so it is very
important to avoid being too acidic or too alkaline.
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Phlebitis
Phlebitis is the general term used for an inflammation of the wall of a vein that can
be caused by an infection. When the vein wall becomes inflamed, it can result in the
development of thrombosis. Phlebothrombosis is the general term used for blood
clotting within a vein.
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Photochemical
A photochemical reaction is a chemical reaction that is induced by the absorption of
light. A prime example is sunburn, which is a photochemical process that alters the
chemistry of the skin.
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Placebo
A placebo is an inactive substance or procedure used as a medicine or therapy that
has no verifiable therapeutic activity.
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The placebo effect is the measurable, observable, or felt improvement in health, but
one that is not attributable to an actual treatment.
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Plato
Plato was born in Greece in 427 BC and was a classical Greek philosopher,
mathematician, writer of philosophical dialogues, and founder of the Academy in
Athens, the first institution of higher learning in the western world. He helped lay the
foundations of Western philosophy.
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Polycythaemia
The term polycythaemia applies to several conditions where there are too many red
blood cells in the blood. The number of red cells you have varies according to your
age and sex. Men have higher levels than women and newborn babies often have
more than adults.
The main problem caused by polycythaemia is that the high number of red cells
increases the thickness of the blood, which in turn reduces blood flow to the bodys
organs. Symptoms can include:
blurred vision or patchy loss of vision

confusion
headaches
red complexion
Conditions which contribute towards polycythaemia include:
chronic lung disease

high altitude
smoking
various types of tumours brain, kidney and liver
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Post-partum depression
Post-partum depression is depression that occurs soon after having a baby.
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It is sometimes characterised as the baby blues.
Symptoms include:
appetite problems
depressed mood
fatigue
feelings of inadequacy as a parent
impaired concentration
inability to enjoy pleasurable activities
suicidal thoughts
tearfulness
trouble sleeping
All this can interfere with the ability to care for the baby.
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Procrastination
Procrastination is a type of behaviour that is characterised by the avoidance of doing
a task that needs to be done, in other words postponing until tomorrow what can
be done today. Procrastination not only affects a person's work, but also commonly
involves feelings such as guilt, inadequacy, self-disgust, stress and depression.
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Proprioception
Proprioception is the ability to sense the position, location, posture and movement of
our body in physical space, without the need to look at our limbs.
Without it, we would have to see where every body part was, making movement and
balance become all but impossible. Instead, proprioception allows us to
unconsciously make adjustments across the whole of our muscle systems without
the need to think about it.
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Pseudoscience
Pseudoscience is something that appears to be scientific in an attempt to claim
legitimacy, but it either does not hold up under the scrutiny of modern Western
science, or it has not been subjected to scientific scrutiny in any meaningful way.
That a therapy is pseudoscientific tends to be a derogatory term used by those
coming from a modern Western scientific background to indicate that no evidence
has been found to support claims of efficacy. At the same time, its important to
remember that the term can also be used when that evidence has not been looked
for.
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a non-contagious, common skin complaint that occurs when the skin
cells replace themselves too quickly every few days, compared to the normal 2128 day cycle.
It has many different appearances, but typically ranges from red or pink areas of
thickened, raised and dry skin to big flakes of dry skin that flake off. It tends to affect
the elbows, knees, and scalp, but any area of the body may be involved.
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Psychoneuroimmunology
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is the study of how the mind and the nervous system
interact with one another. Its main area of interest is the effect that thought,
particularly, stressful thoughts, have on the immune system of the body, and it has
been particularly applied to the study of autoimmune diseases.
In other words, PNI is about mind over matter, and about how much influence the
mind does actually have over matter i.e. the physiological functioning of the body
relating to health and wellbeing.
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Psychophysical
Psychophysical is a way of working that differs from many other psychotherapy
approaches, because it uses the active engagement of the body as being central to
the therapeutic process.
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It integrates both psychotherapy and body therapy in one, at the same time.
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Psychosocial
Psychosocial development is how a person's mind, emotions and maturity level
develop throughout the course of their lifetime.
Different people will develop psychosocially at different rates depending on biological
processes and environmental interactions.
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Psychosomatic/somatic/somatisation
The term somatic refers to the cells of the body.
Somatisation is when physical symptoms develop through stress or emotional
problems.
Psychosomatic refers to a physical disease that is thought to be caused, or made
worse, by mental factors such as stress and anxiety. In certain cases, mental factors
may cause physical symptoms where no physical disease can be found.
All illnesses can be considered to be psychosomatic, as they inevitably involve the
mind's reaction to a physical illness.
In some cases, psychological factors seem to play a particularly important part. They
can influence not only the cause of the illness, but can also worsen the symptoms
and affect the course of the disorder. It is these illnesses that are termed
psychosomatic disorders.
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PTSD
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a natural emotional reaction to a deeply
shocking and disturbing experience and is a normal reaction to an abnormal
situation.
It is a debilitating condition that follows a terrifying event.
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Often, people suffering PTSD will have persistent frightening thoughts and memories
of their ordeal and feel emotionally numb, especially with people they were once
close to.
PTSD was first brought to public attention by war veterans, but it can result from any
number of traumatic incidents.
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Pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which carry
blood from the heart to the lungs to pick up oxygen.
These arteries can become narrow and blocked or damaged reducing blood flow.
This puts a strain on the heart because it has to work harder to try and force blood
through.
Consequently pressure builds up in the narrowed arteries, which results in high
blood pressure.
There are many factors that can cause pulmonary hypertension with symptoms that
include:
chest pain or pressure

dizziness
fatigue
rapid heartbeat
shortness of breath with or without any activity
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Pulmonology/pulmonary system
Pulmonology is the branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and treatment of
disorders that affects the pulmonary system. The pulmonary system includes the
lungs, the respiratory tract and the muscles that support the breathing process, such
as the diaphragm, which pumps air into and out of the lungs.
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Purging
Purging is an act of flushing, rinsing, cleaning or emptying of a body or system.
Two examples of purging are:
people with anorexia purge by making themselves vomit they do this to try
to get rid of the calories they have eaten usually after bingeing, in order not to
gain weight
a central heating system after installing radiators, the air within the system
requires purging so that the system contains only the desired liquid (water and
inhibitor)
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Q
Qi
Qi may be regarded as a universal energy that flows through us and around us,
always being in a constant state of movement continually transforming from one
aspect of Qi into another. It is neither created nor is it ever destroyed; it simply
changes in its manifestation.
Qi is more specifically the vital energy that exists before we are born, remains in the
body during our life and persists after our lives end (Trieschmann, 1999).
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R
Rapport
Rapport is a quality of the relationship between people, a feature or characteristic of
the unconscious human interaction.
It means a mutual trust and responsiveness between individuals or groups of people.
We use rapport to encourage the person we are communicating with to relax and
feel a sense of familiarity and comfort in their interaction with us.
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This helps us to lower our barriers of resistance and become more receptive to our
communications.
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Raynauds disease
Raynaud's disease is a rare disorder that affects blood vessels. It causes episodes
of vasospasm (narrowing of the blood vessels), which decreases blood flow to the
fingers and toes, and in extremely rare cases to the nose, ears, nipples and lips. The
fingers are the most commonly affected area, but the toes are also affected in about
40 per cent of people with Raynaud's disease.
Cold temperatures or stressful emotions can trigger attacks. During these attacks,
there is a brief lack of blood flow to the affected parts of the body and the skin can
temporarily become white then bluish. As blood flow returns to the area, the skin
turns red. The affected areas can throb or feel numb and tingly. With severe,
prolonged or repeated episodes of Raynaud's disease, it can cause sores or tissue
death (gangrene).
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Reframing
Reframing is the process used to help people change their perspective and view on
their issues. It is a powerful therapeutic tool that can create profound and fast
change.
Framing refers to the way a condition is described or an issue is worded. The
reframing is the process of changing the way it is presented so that it maintains its
fundamental meaning but is more likely to support a resolution. A simple example of
a frame and reframe is:
1. Frame I made a mistake, and therefore I'm useless.
2. Reframe I tried something that didn't work, so next time I'll try something
different.
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Reichian segmental theory

Reichian segmental theory is named after its discoverer, Dr Wilhelm Reich, and it
divides the body into seven segments, one on top of the other. These consist of the
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ocular (eye) segment, the oral segment, the cervical (neck) segment, the thoracic
(chest) segment, the diaphragmatic segment, the abdominal segment and the pelvic
segment.
Reich believed that orgone energy what he saw as a universal bioenergetic force
lying behind and causing much, if not all, observable phenomena was within the
body. The energy was supposed to move upward, from the pelvic segment up
through one segment after another, until it reached the top of the ocular segment
and escaped out of the top of the head. A block in any segment would shut off the
flow of orgone energy to the segments above it. So the therapist's job was to
dissolve these blocks starting from the topmost segment and working his way down.
Reich felt that if a lower block were dissolved while a higher-up block were still in
place, the energy released by dissolving the lower block would rush up and slam into
the higher block. This would result in all sorts of nasty problems for the patient, thus
the need for the therapist to work his way down from the top.
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Retroviruses
A retrovirus is a virus that contains RNA (ribonucleic acid) that must be converted to
DNA in the host cell and then back again into RNA to be made into proteins. It
invades the body's cells, where it produces more such RNA viruses, including the
AIDS virus and many cancer-causing viruses.
Normal viruses contain DNA that is transcribed and translated in the host. This
means that retroviruses must carry with them reverse transcriptases (host cells don't
have reverse transcriptases) that will copy RNA into DNA.
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Rheumatism
Rheumatism is a term used to describe disorders associated with many different
parts of the body. Often rheumatism is associated with arthritis, or with rheumatic
fever. However, rheumatism might apply to the symptoms of numerous conditions
that can cause pain and or weakness. Some conditions that were once labelled as
rheumatism or called rheumatic diseases include:
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fibromyalgia
lupus
osteoarthritis
rheumatoid arthritis
tendonitis
Frequently, autoimmune disorders can cause pain as well as affecting other organs,
and were classed as rheumatism. Better understanding of the actions of these
illnesses show that the problem is not dysfunction of the joints, but rather immune
systems that can attack joints, muscles and organs.
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Rhinitis
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining or mucous membranes of the nose. It is not
serious, but it can lead to much discomfort and inconvenience. For many people,
though, it will usually clear up on its own after a few days as generally its known as
a temporary condition.
However, with some people, especially those with allergies, rhinitis is a chronic
problem that is nearly always present or that recurs often. Rhinitis may be caused by
irritants or allergens and symptoms include:
repeated sneezing
blocked or congested nose
runny nose
itchy nose, eyes, ears or throat
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S
Sciatica
Sciatica is a fairly common condition. It is the pain that stems from the lower back
and radiates in the buttocks down the back of the leg and occasionally down as far
as the toes, through the sciatic nerve system.
The pain experienced can range from being very annoying and niggling, to severe
and debilitating agony, usually affecting only one side of the body at a time.
Most people who suffer from sciatica do so because the discs in the backbone
become weak, either through age or excessive strain. Other causes include slipped
discs, back strain, pregnancy, or even a spinal tumour.
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Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a disorder that causes an abnormal curve of the spine, which can make
the sufferer look distorted in appearance. In most cases the cause of scoliosis is
unknown, but it is often seen in people suffering with cerebral palsy or spina bifida
and is a consequence of these conditions. Its a hereditary condition that tends to run
in families. Some of the symptoms may include:
difference in hip height or position

difference in shoulder blade height or position
difference in shoulder height
difference in the way the arms hang beside the body
head is not centred with the rest of the body
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Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a specific type of depression that affects people
at the same time each year, predominantly autumn and winter. During spring and
summer, people with SAD feel well.It is believed that SAD is related to a lack of
daylight exposure, which would explain why people feel well during spring and
summer and only start experiencing problems when the days get shorter. Some of
the symptoms many people experience are, feeling miserable, lacking in energy,
being tired, insomnia, food disorders, having low spirits and feeling depressed.
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Shamanic herbalism
Shamanic herbalism is an ancient way of using plants of power. It provides a depth
of knowledge and wisdom into the relationships necessary to work with plants and
the living wildness of the Earth. According to its theory, plants repulse spells and act
as messengers to unseen worlds.
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Sinusitis
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses; it's usually caused by an allergic reaction
or an infection in your sinuses that stops them from working properly. The sinuses
are air-filled spaces behind the bones of your face that open up into the nose cavity.
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They are lined with the same membrane as your nose. They make mucus, which
normally drains through small openings into your nose. Any of your sinuses can get
blocked and inflamed, leading to sinusitis.
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Socrates
Socrates was a classical Greek philosopher born in Athens in 469 BC. Socrates
never wrote down any of his ideas while he was alive, but is credited as one of the
founders of Western philosophy.
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Spina bifida
Spina bifida is caused by problems in the development of an embryo in the womb.
The features of spina bifida vary between individuals, but commonly the small bones
that make up the spine (the vertebrae) have not formed fully and may have gaps in
them. In severe cases, one or more vertebrae may be missing, exposing the spinal
cord. This defect is what is known as spina bifida.
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Subcutaneous
Subcutaneous means beneath or just under the skin.
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Swish
The Swish pattern or technique is a way to quickly dissolve the feelings attached to
unwanted thoughts and to deal with non-useful responses, by redirectioning thinking.
The unwanted thoughts or responses are replaced with more useful and appropriate
ones. The actual swish comes when the new image overtakes the old and sends
your brain in a new designated direction.
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T
Taoist philosophy
The term Tao communicates an entire philosophy, an outlook on the fundamental
nature of life and the universe, expressing the path human beings must take to join,
rather than disturb, that unity.Early Taoist philosophy was influenced by observations
of nature.
Taoist philosophers determined that everything has its complementary opposite.
More than this, they saw that everything can only be understood by comparing it to
its opposite. For example, day is only day in relation to night, cold is only cold in
relation to hot, and soft is only soft in relation to hard. Looking deeper still, they
realised that these relationships are in a constant state of movement, day flows
gradually into night and back again and so on.
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Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon. Chronic strain, overuse or
misuse of a tendon can lead to a repetitive stress injury, or a serious acute injury,
leading to a weakness, tear or swelling of the tendon tissue resulting in pain and
stiffness near the tendon.
Tendonitis usually occurs at the thumb, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, heal and wrist,
but can occur anywhere there is a tendon, and is a commonly associated sports
injury. It can also be age-related as tendons lose their elasticity and ability to glide as
smoothly as they used to.
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Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow is the term used to describe tendonitis of the elbow, a condition where
damage to the muscles, tendons and ligaments around the elbow joint and forearm
occur. It is a common occurrence in tennis players. But is not just restricted to tennis
players, as any activity that requires gripping can cause this problem.
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Theta state
The theta state is when our brain waves normally a mixture of alpha, beta, delta,
gamma and theta waves become predominantly theta, thus allowing us to enter a
trance-like state. There are many different means of achieving the theta state. One
method that is commonly used is the rhythmic beating of a drum. Scientists have
found that when the human brain is exposed to a steady rhythm of between four and
seven beats per second, it can more easily enter the theta state.
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Theosophist
Theosophy is a type of religious philosophy that states that all religions are attempts
to help humanity to evolve to greater perfection, and that each religion, therefore,
has a portion of truth. It teaches that everything, living or not, is put together from
basic building blocks that are evolving towards consciousness.
Theosophists believe that Nature does not operate by chance, rather that every
event past or present happens because of laws, which are part of a universal
paradigm. This is an approach to life where many popular religions and philosophies
are surveyed for common elements. These are brought together in a unified way to
form the foundations of a belief system.
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Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is the reaction your tonsils (the small glands at the back of your throat)
have to a viral or bacterial infection. Some signs of tonsillitis may include: red and
swollen tonsils, redness at the back of the throat, white spots on the tonsils and the
glands in the neck being bigger than usual. Symptoms may include:
ear pain
headache
high temperature
pain when swallowing
sore throat
tiredness
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Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by a germ called mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Sometimes TB causes no immediate illness, but can remain dormant in the body
before developing, possibly many years later. This is more likely if the body is
weakened by other medical problems.
People most at risk are those with damaged immune systems. It most commonly
affects the lungs, and is caught from other people. Typical symptoms include:
chest pains
coughing
fever and sweating, particularly at night
weight and appetite loss
TB can be completely cured by treatment with a course of tablets.
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U
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition that affects the colon. The colon, which is
also known as the large intestine, removes nutrients from undigested food and
expels waste products from the body. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can range from
mild to severe, and include bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain, a frequent need to go
to the toilet and weight loss. For some people, the condition is a minor
inconvenience, while for others it can seriously affect their quality of life.
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Ultraviolet light
Ultraviolet light (UV) is regarded more as a range of wavelengths rather than
anything specific. It is present in natural sunlight. However, it is invisible to the naked
eye. The term ultraviolet derives from the Latin word ultra meaning "beyond".
Violet is the colour of the shortest wavelengths of visible light and ultraviolet has an
even shorter wavelength that goes beyond this range. UV light from the sun is
responsible for tanning of the skin, but over exposure to this light can cause sunburn
and even some forms of skin cancer.
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393
Unani-tibb
Unani tibb is an Eastern form of medicine and herbalism, sometimes referred to as
Islamic medicine. It is based on the ancient methods of medicine used and taught by
Hippocrates, Galen and Avicenna and includes elements of healing systems from
Persia, Arabia, India, China and classical Greece. A belief central to the core of the
practice is that good health and a happy state of mind represent the normal
constitution for balanced human beings.
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Urology/urogenital
Urogenital refers to the urinary and genital organs. Urology is the branch of medicine
that deals with the urinary tract in both males and females, and the genital tract or
reproductive system in the male.
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V
Vertebrobasilar
Vertebrobasilar is a condition that affects both the vertebral and basilar arteries,
resulting in circulatory disorders in which blood supply to the back of the brain is
disrupted.
There are many different conditions that can influence this type of disorder. The most
common cause is a stroke, which can cause hardening of the arteries where the
arteries can narrow or restrict blood flow. The back of the brain contains structures
that are crucial for sustaining life. For instance, the brainstem controls breathing,
swallowing, and the level of consciousness. Symptoms of vertebrobasilar circulatory
disorders include:
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difficulty swallowing
double vision
headaches
loss of hearing
loss of vision
nausea and vomiting
numbness or tingling
poor coordination
problems with balance
slurred speech
vertigo
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Vertigo
Vertigo is a symptom of a balance disorder, an illusion of movement when no
movement is present. It may feel that you are spinning, tilting, rocking, or falling
within your surroundings. You may vomit or have ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Also,
your eyes may uncontrollably jerk back and forth. True vertigo, from the Latin
"vertere," meaning to turn, is a distinct, often severe form of dizziness that is a
movement hallucination.
Vertigo can be caused by inner ear problems, or a problem in the brain. Usually
harmless, vertigo can be a sign of a serious condition if accompanied by difficulty in
speaking or walking, severe headaches or double vision.
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W
WHO
World Health Organisation (WHO) is a United Nations agency that coordinates
international health activities and helps governments to improve their health
services.
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Z
Zen Buddhism
Zen Buddhism is a mixture of Indian Mahayana Buddhism and Taoism and is
sometimes seen as a religion and sometimes seen as a philosophy. The essence of
Zen is attempting to understand the meaning of life directly. It promotes a strict
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ethics and morality, which reflects its concern with the attainment of selflessness
without being misled by logical thought or language.
Zen adherents believe that all sentient beings have a Buddha nature, the universal
nature of wisdom and virtue, and emphasise that Buddha nature is nothing other
than the nature of the mind itself. The aim of Zen practice is to discover this Buddha
nature within each person, through meditation and mindfulness of daily experiences.
Zen techniques are compatible with other faiths and are often used, for example, by
Christians seeking a mystical understanding of their faith.
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The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Published by Gill Harley Ltd

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

what the therapy is

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Use the Blue button on the

Use the Back arrow button in

Or you can use the Green

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Animal Assisted Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Apitherapy / Bee Venom Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

How does apitherapy and bee venom therapy work?

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

aerial diffusion, for example burning oils to help fragrance a room

Aromatherapy can work in one of two ways.

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Where can you find further information on aura therapy?

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Australian Flower Essences Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Authentic Movement Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

The Therapy Book The Essential Guide To Every Therapy

Where can you find further information on behaviour therapy?