International Therapist Spring 2018 by Redactive Media Group

International

Therapist fht.org.uk

Bespoke beauty Addressing problem skin

Snap judgement Introduction to iliopsoas tendinitis

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Reï¬&#x201A;exology research

Training Congress Special se e page 31

Improving pregnancy and labour outcomes PUBLISHED BY THE FHT ISSUE 124 (SPRING 2018) THE LEADING MAGAZINE FOR PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS 01 Cover__International Therapist 1

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CONTENTS

International

Therapist fht.org.uk

ISSUE 124 (SPRING 2018)

FEATURES

Reflexology research Dr Julie McCullough, MFHT, talks about researching the effects of antenatal reflexology on pregnancy and labour outcomes

ON THE COVER

Down to business The FHT’s Governing Council offers some bite-size business advice for members

Bespoke beauty Cristina Coelho, MFHT, provides three case studies of clients with challenging skin conditions

Leg work Ruth Duncan talks about treating leg length discrepancies with myofascial release

The way of mindfulness Seán Collins explains how mindfulness can help protect the health and wellbeing of therapists

Showcasing excellence We look at the case for entering awards and offer some top tips

2018 FHT Member Survey We reveal our survey results

Laughter is the best medicine Lotte Mikkelsen looks at the benefits of laughter for good health and wellbeing

REGULARS

LEARNING ZONE

Your views

News update

Ask an expert

COPA Series 2018

Essential oil profile

CPD questions and diary dates

MEMBERS’ PAGES

New in the reading room and spiral quiz

48 A day in the life of…

German chamomile

What’s new at FHT

Local support group news

60 66

with Mary Dalgleish, FHT Vice President

FHT.ORG.UK

03 Contents__International Therapist 3

Medical A-Z Irritable bowel syndrome

Industry news On the couch…

2018 FHT Training Congress and Holistic Health Show

Research

FHT learning

FHT accredited courses

Snap judgement Dawn Morse provides an introduction to iliopsoas tendinitis and techniques

Ingvild Skodvin Prestegård, holistic therapist and yoga teacher

Members’ news Maria Mason, FHT Vice President, brings essential oils along on her Everest trek

Reviews, competition and new products

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 11:49

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INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

WELCOME Federation of Holistic Therapists 18 Shakespeare Business Centre Hathaway Close Eastleigh Hants SO50 4SR

Contact

T. 023 8062 4350 E. info@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk

Editor

Karen Young

Deputy Editor Daniel Ralls

Sub-editor

James Hundleby

Design

Nicola Skowronek, Sarah Auld

Picture Editor Chloe Crisford

Advertising

Joanne Rose T. 020 7880 6231 joanne.rose@redactive.co.uk

Deadlines – Summer 2018 (Issue 125) Editorial – 2 May Classiﬁed adverts – 25 June Display adverts – 3 July Published – 19 July

Senior management team

Jade Dannheimer; Matthew Furner; Julie McFadden; John Parsons; Annie Walling; Karen Young

Governing council

President – Paul Battersby Vice Presidents – Gerri Moore; Mary Dalgleish; Herman Fenton; Christopher Byrne; Jonathan Hobbs; Maria Mason; Cheryl Cole. Lay members – Helen Chambers; Peter Wren

FHT Expert Advisers

Julian Baker, MFHT; Lynne Booth, MFHT; Amanda Brooks, MFHT; Lorraine Davis, FFHT; Christine Fisk; Sally Kay, FFHT; Cameron Reid, MFHT; Tina Reid; Neil Sheehan, MFHT; Denise Tiran

t’s lovely knowing that what you do makes a difference, but isn’t it even better when you can prove this? Dr Julie McCullough, MFHT, has been a complementary therapist for 12 years and co-authored several papers published in peer-reviewed journals. The most recent of these papers focused on the outcomes of a trial investigating the effects of reflexology on pregnant women with low back and/ or pelvic girdle pain (LBPGP). The results were very positive, indicating that alongside usual care, reflexology reduced both LBPGP and labour duration in women, compared with those receiving usual care and footbaths, or usual care only. In our lead feature, Julie provides an overview of the trial and its key findings, which builds on the existing evidence base for reflexology and offers new knowledge. But perhaps just as important, Julie goes on to talk about what it was like to be involved in the trial and some of the unique opportunities this presented – not least, being able to talk about complementary therapies to healthcare professionals who otherwise might not have had the chance to experience or observe interventions like reflexology (to read more, turn to page 12). Being able to demonstrate positive treatment outcomes and engage with health professionals as Julie has, is absolutely key to furthering the integrated healthcare agenda. If you too are making similar progress, don’t hide your light under a bushel – please enter an award this year. It will help us highlight the vital role you play in supporting the public’s health (see page 36 for details).

USEFUL FHT CONTACTS

Finally, a big thank you to everyone who took part in our 2018 FHT Member Survey. The information you provide each year gives us a clear steer for the next 12 months, based on your changing needs and concerns as a therapist and valued member of the FHT (see the results on page 38). If you didn’t complete our survey, you can email us at anytime, or come and chat to us at one of the shows we’re attending this year. The first is COPA in ExCeL London on 9 and 10 May (see page 46), followed by the Holistic Health Show, Birmingham NEC, on 20 and 21 May. If you haven’t booked your seminar tickets for our Training Congress at Holistic Health, hurry, as time’s running out! See page 31 or visit fht.org.uk/congress

Karen Young, Editor

International Therapist (IT) is printed on FSC® responsibly sourced paper. If you can bear to part with your copy of IT, please pass it on to a friend to read or recycle.

ACCREDITATION Annie Walling E. accreditation@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/accreditation

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST Daniel Ralls E. dralls@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/IT

CPD REQUIREMENTS

MEMBERSHIP AND INSURANCE Beverly Bartlett E. bbartlett@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk

Heidi Hinton E. cpd@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/cpd

PRESS AND MEDIA Karen Young E. kyoung@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/press-and-media FOLLOW FHT ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, LINKEDIN & INSTAGRAM

FHT is a trading name of the Federation of Holistic Therapists, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under ﬁrm reference number 502095. You may check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting the FCA’s website, register.fca.org.uk or by contacting the FCA on T. 0800 111 6768. Registered in England and Wales, No. 02864349. Registered ofﬁce: Chilworth Point, 1 Chilworth Road, Southampton SO16 7JQ. This issue of International Therapist has been published on behalf of the Federation of Holistic Therapists by Redactive Media Group, 78 Chamber Street, London E1 8BL. The Federation has taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the magazine. Except in respect of death or personal injury caused by the Federation’s negligence, the Federation shall not be liable, by reason of any error in or omission from the information contained in this or any previous editions of the magazine, for loss or damage whatsoever arising therefrom. Neither FHT, Redactive Media Group nor the authors can accept liability for errors or ommisions. Neither the Federation nor Redactive Media Group necessarily associates itself with any views that may be expressed in this magazine, to which readers are invited to submit articles of general interest for publication. Responsibility cannot be accepted for unsolicited manuscripts or transparencies. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or optical without written permission from the Federation.

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05 Editors welco__International Therapist 5

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PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

WELCOME

’m a great fan of awards but having spoken to lots of members, I know that many of you feel perfectly happy knowing that you are helping others and don’t feel the need to be recognised for your work. While this is a very humble point of view, I would like to stress that awards are about so much more than winning a nice trophy and celebrating your achievements among peers. On a personal level, winning or even being shortlisted can be great for business. But on

a larger scale, being able to share the success Therapy Awards, organised by Chamberlain stories behind each award winner can really Dunn. Launched this month, these awards help us to have meaningful conversations mean there’s even more opportunity to be and open doors at a political level. recognised for your work in supporting Maybe you specialise in injury others, which we think is only a Paul Battersby, prevention and rehabilitation, good thing. MFHT, has been a helping your clients to stay And if you’re a student or practising therapist for fit for work, their favourite tutor, rest assured, there are more than 21 years. A former therapy tutor in colleges of sport or hobby. Perhaps special categories designed HE and FE, he is now a senior you treat men and women for you, too, to help shine lecturer at Glyndŵr University, who have distressing a spotlight on excellence in teaching rehabilitation, skin conditions or hair therapy education. traditional Chinese medicine loss, to help them look If you’ve never entered an and complementary therapies. and feel better, and rebuild award before, in this issue of their self-confidence. Through a International Therapist we offer combination of treatments and lifestyle some top tips, along with six reasons advice, maybe you’re empowering people why you should put yourself forward for an living with a chronic health condition award (see page 36). For more information to manage their symptoms and improve and to enter the awards, visit fht.org.uk their health. Or perhaps you are currently And remember, there’s nothing stopping looking after the wellbeing of other health you from entering both – FHT’s Excellence professionals, such as nurses and doctors, so Awards and the new Complementary that they have the energy and resilience to Therapy Awards – which means you get continue caring for others. twice the chance to shine. Good luck! Whatever it is you do that makes a difference, please help to put the therapies you are passionate about firmly ‘on the map’ by entering an award. Alongside our own FHT Excellence Awards, this year we Paul Battersby, President are sponsoring the all-new Complementary

FHT GOVERNING COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENTS PRESIDENT Paul Battersby PACT (Professional Association of Clinical Therapists)

Gerri Moore

Christopher Byrne

Cheryl Cole

IFHB (International Federation of Health and Beauty Therapists)

ICAT (International Council of Acupuncture Therapists)

IFHB (International Federation of Health and Beauty Therapists)

Herman Fenton

Jonathan Hobbs

HFST (International Council of Health, Fitness and Sports Therapists)

FHT EXPERT ADVISERS Julian Baker, MFHT; Lynne Booth, MFHT; Amanda Brooks, MFHT; Lorraine Davis, FFHT; Christine Fisk; Sally Kay, FFHT; Cameron Reid, MFHT; Tina Reid; Neil Sheehan, MFHT; Denise Tiran.

Mary Dalgleish ICHT (International Council of Holistic Therapists)

LAY MEMBERS

ATL (Association of Therapy Lecturers)

Maria Mason HBEF (Health and Beauty Employers Federation)

Helen Chambers and Peter Wren (representing the interests of the public)

For biographies, please visit fht.org.uk/about-us 6

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

06 Presidents we__International Therapist 6

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HAVE YOUR SAY PLEASE KEEP IN TOUCH WITH US... Email dralls@fht.org.uk Facebook facebook.com/fht.org.uk

Your views

FHT website fht.org.uk

Instagram fht_org

Twitter @FHT_Org

Write to 18 Shakespeare Business Centre, Hathaway Close, Eastleigh, Hants S050 4SR

STAR COMMUNICATION Elite networking Each week I attend a Business Networking International event at the Prince Regent Hotel in Chigwell, Essex. Recently, I was introduced to Paola, who provides a vetted and screened matching service for celebrities visiting the UK without their usual entourage to connect with therapists, make-up artists and stylists. Paola introduced me to Jeanette Kwakye, a former Great Britain Olympic sprinter and now author and Sky Sports presenter (pictured left, and below right). She needed to look her very best for a red-carpet event, the Sportswomen of the Year Awards. Jeanette visited my Tranquilstate studio and had a Dermalogica prescription facial, followed by a non-surgical Venus Freeze face and neck lift. She was ecstatic with the results and posted a video clip on Instagram praising the treatment delivered at Tranquilstate (@tranquilstateskincare) and myself as the principal therapist. Jeanette said: ‘I’ve just had the most amazing treatment at Tranquilstate from Sylvester. I can’t stop smiling.’ This was great exposure for the business and the wider industry profile. Local networking events present a unique opportunity for business owners to grow, develop, generate new business opportunities and expand professional networks, both in their immediate area and beyond. I’d certainly recommend them to other members. Robert Sylvester Coleman, FFHT

Following your dreams I recently moved from St Joseph on Trinidad to Cunupia, 17km away. I had an opportunity to buy a business premises here and took it. Although it takes me away from the bread-and-butter east-west corridor of the island, I have to believe that my vision will work wherever I am. I began building a place for my school and therapy practice. It has a space for classes, two therapy rooms and two washrooms. From July to October last year, it was a breathless experience with workmen and missed deadlines. The school is now painted and completely operational. I have a fully functional space and was recently able to hold classes in it. I thank my students over and over for following me here from St Joseph and completing their courses with me. They sat an exam recently, and we had snacks and drinks and loud conversations

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

08-09 Your views__International Therapist 8

afterwards, in lieu of a proper party. The building has four two-bedroom apartments, which I rent out to tenants. One of them I allowed the workmen to use during construction to sleep over. The others were temporarily used to hold classes.

My current students have watched my dream come alive and have shared how it has also motivated them. Thank you, FHT. You have helped to empower me to be this version of myself. Rinalda Jeffrey, FHT Accredited Course Provider

FHT.ORG.UK

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HAVE YOUR SAY

Just what the doctor ordered terjee an Chat W | Dr Rang INTERVIE

An apple a day

TO TALK S TTERJEE HEA LTH GAN CHA ORM ING DR RAN IAL TRA NSF MYO FASC ABO UT STY LE, THE FHT S TO H LIFE THR OUG , BAR RIER RELE ASE E, HIS NEW E SELF-CAR MOR AND BOO K

What a brilliant interview in your winter edition (International Therapist, Issue 123) – ‘An apple a (Inter day’ with Dr Rangan Chatterjee. His H views on medicine and advancing it by introducing a better lifestyle/holistic approach intr need to be heard. nee Less suppression of symptoms and more L looking at the underlying problems: that’s loo something complementary therapists have so been saying for years. Hopefully, with Dr b Chatterjee’s TV series and his new book, C tthings will start to change for the better. Voysey, MFHT Angela Voysey

e ine becaus ssive medic standing it as progre our under I refer to ssion of ng this it’s a progre start applyi the line, ine. ts. ssion to of medic here along little l progre somew gone a of my patien e I now natura I think, ine has like becaus to some tional medichanding out drugssevere knowledge again as a doctor my patients conven can have er ck. We’re I felt alive really get be very of these bit off-tra how to them anoth when some side-effects might back understood than just give oms. sweets, the a step rather ssing sympt fects. Yes, better, got to take is best, for suppre side-ef we’ve ’ I think medicine ention prescription rare, but GRESSIVE using a interv T ‘PRO ... at when m. try a safer and look US ABOU CINE the proble we should root of Q. TELL STYLE’ MEDI be incredible g back, and when way get to the what Lookin en the try and ts, and OR ‘LIFE l medicine can I think the first, to nect betwe NEW my patien came discon Conventionaconditions. But we are T YOUR e and treat But things really that six to practis US ABOU R PLAN… well for so many l problem is vely right. son was Q. TELL years PILLA that work felt intuiti when our unwell. He than 16 THE 4 fundamenta for me In principles ic problems, BOOK, doctor for more very came patients. to apply to the fore and became a ic to chron nds of trying and it all ity s old I’ve been thousa nights problems g. The chron month in the major ver tens of for five which for acute often not workin d that, and seen ciency, hospital to whate simply a GP are was in I’ve learne in D defi le buting and it’s I see as a vitam that time le is contri see me about. to do multip just problems n down to lifesty need to moder health we not table. magic that l, so of cases, t comes better, was preven no question is no single a patien multifactoria and get people once the ion of problem that there There was nation life, but to try learned things real attent saved his is a combi is using I’ve also fixed, no medicine lying medicine good health m was one thing. er bullet – the under . progressive in the consid acute proble addressing For me, learned le factors what I lot of guilt to multip , which what we I felt a based on ning this n. I was given best of of health father, book is a combi the solutio edge As a The pillars and m. y for knowl proble four main l over: food, each me to look vitamin D and 20th centur ation and ion, . to be the inform have contro system and it drove le, nutrit tion. For up about with new on. immune to read ine, lifesty most people sleep and relaxa each and so is for the , the more started rs, and ach. ent, about medic ary therapies, tant it chapte c appro movem online are five how impor found complement integrated, holisti lifestyle or time I spent , and I often pillar there an ssive, this?’ . The more across It’s about I know matter it progre I came call ch don’t really my we ’t G.UK er resear d to ‘Why doesn FHT.OR Wheth thinking: had learne medicine myself what I Seeing functional family. applying whole I began it was a f and the rst-hand, 18 12/01/20 son, mysel the benefit fi and feeling

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Twitter talk WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LATEST TWEETS FROM FHT MEMBERS? TAKE A LOOK HERE... TWEET US @FHT_ORG AND YOU COULD FEATURE IN A FUTURE ISSUE.

Professional recognition EMMA HOLLY, MFHT @SCARWORKUK

16:20

More press for the work I am doing and thanks to the recognition from @FHT_Org as Highly Commended Complementary Therapist of the Year #scars #breastcancer

STAR COMMUNICATION

Soothe the senses In the next issue of International Therapist, the lucky member who wins our star communication prize will receive a copy of Mouse and the Storm, by Susan Quayle, illustrated by Melissa Muldoon. Get in contact for a chance to win – details above left.

Massage mentor at MS centre

Quality of life SOVEREIGN HEALTH UK @SOVEREIGNHEALTH Mary Dalgleish of @FHT_Org says: ‘In 16 years of practising reflexology, I have seen what a huge difference this gentle but powerful therapy can make to people’s quality of life.’

You are ls are not expected beauty professiona cancers. diagnose skin

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are aware Your clients if they lesion. of the mole or

st of 4 Signpo about the signs to public information Clients how to seek help. skin cancer and

for further information, of this leaflet and For the PDF version .uk/sunawareness please visit www.bad.org

panel of skin cancer Taskforce is a The Melanoma MP, brought by Siân James the prevention experts, chaired at how to improve together to look of skin cancer. and treatment

British About the n of Associatio gists (BAD) Dermatolo for professional organisation free The BAD is the in the UK. It provides and runs dermatologists on skin diseases including patient information profile campaigns, early a number of high and a skin cancer Sun Awareness detection campaign.

Case study

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a therapist, noticed in Ray Vyse, a massage leg; “It had grown an mole on his client’s appearance and alarm, he size, had a darker Without causing at by her irregular shape”. she have it looked was a suggested that instance the lesion doctor. In this y removed. it was consequentl melanoma, and

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Endorsed by: Federation of Holistic Therapists

Ray Vyse, MFHT

I recently provided training for a team of six therapists at the Merlin Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Centre in Cornwall, delivering massage and manual therapy approaches for lower and upper limb imbalances, including for patients in wheelchairs. We discussed common issues that clients with MS may encounter, aetiology, and potential interventions. I demonstrated subjective and objective assessment, and massage techniques. Staff were enthusiastic and looking forward to using their new skills on patients. Lead physiotherapist Melissa King said: ‘A massive thank you to Mike Murphy for his fantastic knowledge and approach. We have gained new knowledge and skills.’ Being on the Accredited Register demonstrated that I had met the professional standards required for health and social care and am committed to following the highest standards. I recommend all therapists try to engage with other healthcare professionals. Any way in which we can support public healthcare will be beneficial to our governing organisations and profession. Mike Murphy, MFHT

FHT.ORG.UK

08-09 Your views__International Therapist 9

first point “GPs are the with patients of contact for “Skcin has worked about Hospital NHS who are concerned Nottingham City scheme which changing or Trust on a pilot of skin new, lesions. worrying skin encourages awareness and other hairdressers Hairdressers cancer amongst We may be the professionals and beauty therapists.which any of first to notice applaud this initiative on their on the we hope will build our previous these changes of clients and helpfully positive results the early to seek to encourage them work, leading cancers, their GP’s advice.” detection of skin lives.” GP, PCDS ultimately saving Dr Stephen Hayes, Richard Clifford,

COMPLEMENTARY

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JAN SARGEANT HODGKISS, MFHT

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Excellent [information on the signs of skin cancer in clients for therapists] leaflet provided in the Members area. Find out more at fht.org.uk/ melanoma-taskforce

PICTURES: ALAMY; ROBERT SYLVESTER COLEMAN; RINALDA JEFFREY; MIKE MURPHY

09:16 Page 1 3 09/08/2012

a Taskforce_v1

IPA_Melanom

Perfect balance

VICTORIA HOOKWAY, MFHT

SOPHIE MORGAN, MFHT

I am travelling to Vietnam by myself to do volunteer work with mentally and physically disabled children. They are homeless and wouldn’t be able to care for themselves without the centre.

Retrained as a sports massage therapist and reflexologist, renovated my garage into a treatment room and set up my own business from home. It’s amazing where life can take you when you work hard!

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NEWS

Golf and group workouts are great for wellbeing Golf and group workouts are the two sporting activities with the largest social impact on health and wellbeing, according to a recent report from ukactive. The report looks at the value of community sports and leisure facilities, based on their impact on improving health and wellbeing, increasing educational attainment and reducing crime. The overall value of community leisure has been estimated at £3.3bn using the social value calculator, a national model that measures social return on investment in sport.

These findings are based on information collected from a two-year study of 1.8 million people across 651 leisure facilities in the UK. Further analysis was conducted to estimate the value of each sport per person: golf and group workouts ranked top for health and wellbeing at more than £400 per person. However, football was the most valuable sporting activity for improving educational attainment (£45 per person) and reducing crime (£0.92 per person). Read the report at fht.org.uk/ IT-124-group-workouts

Government funding of IVF could reduce multiple pregnancies

Touching your nose can show that you feel stressed Facial temperatures can say a lot about an individual’s mental workload, according to a study at the University of Nottingham. The study revealed that a person’s face will, counterintuitively, cool down when feeling stressed, and this will be most apparent in the sinuses around the nose. Researchers from the university asked participants to perform a series of visual motor tasks of varying difficulty to monitor changes in facial temperature. Data was collected using thermal imaging cameras to measure temperature, as well as physiological measurements to monitor stress and subjective ratings on workload and performance. The cause of this cooling down may result from blood flow moving from the face to the brain for tasks that require a lot of concentration. However, scientists involved in the study have called for more research to determine this. For more information on the university’s research, visit fht.org.uk/IT-124-workload

Seaweed extract could protect skin from UV radiation Scientists from King’s College London have discovered a compound in seaweed that could protect human skin from sun damage without having a negative impact on marine ecosystems. Known as palythine, the mycosporine-like amino acid is produced by organisms found in shallow water that are exposed to a lot of sunlight. Under laboratory conditions, the palythine was found to absorb harmful rays from the sun and protect human cells from UV-induced damage. Most formulations of sunscreen

contain synthetic UV radiation filters that can cause damage to the environment if they make their way into water systems, potentially harming vulnerable marine life, including coral, micro-organisms and fish. Further research on palythine could therefore lead to the development of more natural, nontoxic sunscreen that would protect human skin effectively without negatively impacting the environment. To find out more, visit fht.org.uk/IT-124-seaweed

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

10-11 News__International Therapist 10

Full government funding of IVF treatments is the ‘most important factor’ in maintaining low rates of multiple pregnancies following treatment and reducing related complications, according to a report by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Multiple pregnancies following IVF treatments can occur because of a practice where more than one embryo is transferred into the uterus to reduce costs for patients who pay for their own treatments. Consequently, multiple births occurred in nearly 20% of IVF cases in the UK in 2011, compared with just under 5% in Sweden. Associated complications from multiple pregnancies include an increased risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, haemorrhage following birth and premature birth. Find out more at fht.org.uk/IT-124-IVF

FHT.ORG.UK

16/04/2018 14:33

NEWS

New cancer guide available for working men The European Men’s Health Forum has produced a manual to help men diagnosed with cancer. Working with Cancer: a Guide for Men During and After Diagnosis covers three key sections: work, money and health. The work section offers advice to men with cancer who wish to continue working or are unable to remain in employment. While most employers are said to be supportive of staff after a diagnosis, the manual outlines

the legal rights of workers, noting that people with cancer are protected by the law. The second section looks at key financial considerations, such as managing income and outgoings, and minimising money worries. Health tips are highlighted in the final section, emphasising that a healthy mind and body is even more important after a cancer diagnosis. Access the report at fht.org.uk/IT-124-cancer

PICTURES: GETTY; ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

RSPH calls for changes in alcohol labelling The Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) is calling for changes in UK alcohol labelling in a new report that highlights what it calls an ‘alcohol health awareness vacuum’. The report notes that less than one in six (16%) people are aware of the government’s low-risk drinking guidelines, just 10% are aware of the link between alcohol and cancer, and more than 80% are unable to correctly estimate the amount of calories in a glass of wine. The RSPH proposes that alcohol labels show government drinking guidelines, as well as the link between alcohol and serious health conditions, similar to warnings on cigarette packets. The RSPH also suggests that a drink-driving warning be displayed on front labels, along with details of the calorie content per container. These measures could potentially have a great impact on positively influencing behaviour and improving public health awareness. Access the report at fht.org.uk/IT-124-alcohol

FHT.ORG.UK

10-11 News__International Therapist 11

FREE APP CREATED FOR VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE Expert Self Care has created a free smartphone app for young people who are considering self-harm or suicide. The DistrACT app is designed to help young people cope with difﬁcult feelings and get the help and support they need. Find out more at fht.org.uk/IT-124-DistrACT

VISUAL ARTS COULD HELP WITH MENTAL WELLBEING

UK has biggest appetite for ultra-processed food in Europe UK families purchase more ‘ultra-processed’ food than their European counterparts, according to a recent study. It makes up 50.4% of the average British family’s food budget, with Germany (46.2%) not far behind. In contrast, ultra-processed food makes up just 10.2% of the average Portuguese family’s diet. The study, published in Public Health Nutrition, examined national household budget surveys to see if there was an association between availability of foods made in a factory and the prevalence of obesity. A correlation between ultra-processed food and obesity prevalence was found. Read an abstract of the study at fht.org.uk/IT-124-processed-food

Engaging in the visual arts is good for adults with mental health conditions, according to a report by the What Works Centre for Wellbeing. Evidence suggests that activities such as photography, sewing and painting could help improve the wellbeing of adults with depression and low self-esteem. Access the report at fht.org.uk/IT-124-arts

INVESTMENT IN SPORT FOR PEOPLE ON LOW INCOMES Sport England is investing in 26 new projects to help people on low incomes become more healthy and active. Each of the projects is set to receive up to £10,000 for programmes such as ‘dad dancing’ ﬁtness classes and sports sessions for rough sleepers. Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-124-SE

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REFLEXOLOGY | Pregnancy and labour

Reﬂexology RESEARCH DR JULIE MCCULLOUGH, MFHT, TALKS ABOUT RESEARCHING THE EFFECTS OF ANTENATAL REFLEXOLOGY ON PREGNANCY AND LABOUR OUTCOMES

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PICTURES: GETTY; ISTOCK

’ve been working as a complementary therapist since 2006 and practising reflexology since 2007. Having a particular interest in pregnancy and maternity care, I went on to complete the Suzanne Enzer course in maternity reflexology in 2012. As a scientist, I felt compelled to find information on how and why complementary therapies were helpful and effective for so many people. However, the evidence base for complementary therapies is embryonic, and particularly for reflexology. My thirst for knowledge and understanding saw me embarking on a PhD at Ulster University in 2011. It was at this point that I joined an established research team already investigating pregnancyrelated low back and/or pelvic girdle pain (LBPGP) involving experts in complementary therapy research (Dr Ciara Hughes), physiotherapy (Dr Dianne Liddle) and midwifery research (Professor Marlene Sinclair).

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Pregnancy and labour | REFLEXOLOGY

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND TO THE RESEARCH The specific aim of the research was to find out more about any impact that antenatal reflexology had on women experiencing stress caused by LBPGP. LBPGP is a common condition during pregnancy, with 66% to 71% of women experiencing low back pain (LBP) and 20% to 65% developing pelvic girdle pain (Liddle and Pennick, 2015; Kovacs et al, 2012). The two conditions are often difficult to distinguish from one another, typically increase as pregnancy progresses, and can last up to 10 years after giving birth (Brynhildsen et al, 1998). LBPGP can lead to problems with mobility and carrying out everyday chores, and causes distress to many women. However, the reasons why so many women are affected is not yet fully understood. In earlier work carried out by the team, findings from an online survey found that in order to alleviate high levels of LBPGP, many women resorted to taking pain medication including paracetamol, co-codamol and diclofenac, with the reported rates of use as high as 64% (Sinclair et al, 2014). All of these painkillers have known potential side-effects when taken during pregnancy. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies are used for a range of pregnancy-related symptoms, including back pain (Sabino and Grauer, 2008), and are carried out by midwives themselves or at their suggestion (Wang et al, 2005). Midwives are keen to incorporate CAM therapies alongside usual care as these are considered safe, and compatible with the woman-centred approach and the natural physiology of pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, CAM ‘supports the woman’s autonomy, and […] can enhance midwives’ professional autonomy’ (Hall et al, 2012). Women who have used CAM therapies during pregnancy report that they consider them safe and natural, empowering and enabling them to take more control of their pregnancy and labour (Warriner et al, 2014). Earlier research by Sabino and Grauer (2008) also demonstrated the pain-relieving aspects of CAM in pregnancy and childbirth. The findings from the team’s online survey demonstrated that 25% of 171 respondents used CAM during pregnancy, the most popular being aromatherapy (21%), acupuncture (21%), and reflexology (15%). A total of 81% of women used CAM to manage their LBPGP and 85% had found it useful for pregnancy-related symptoms (Hughes et al, 2018).

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Up to 71%

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The method chosen for the PhD was a randomised controlled trial (RCT), which was registered as the CAM in Pregnancy Trial. The research was conducted at the Ulster Maternity Unit, Northern Ireland, and began in July 2012 and was completed in December 2014. First-time pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy with LBPGP were invited to take part in the trial and had an equal chance of receiving: 30-minute reflexology sessions for six weeks, alongside usual antenatal care (intervention), or 30-minute footbath treatments for six weeks, alongside usual antenatal care (sham treatment), or usual antenatal care (control group).

of women experience low back pain during pregnancy and

Up to 65% develop pelvic girdle pain

Ninety women were randomised to take part, with 30 women in each of the three arms of the trial. All of the women who consented to take part in the research were asked to rate, on a 0 to 10cm visual analogue scale (VAS), their pain frequency and intensity each week. Women in the reflexology and footbath groups had their heart rate and blood pressure recorded each week before and after their treatment. They also completed questionnaires relating to any changes from the previous week to ensure that there were no contraindications to having reflexology. Each participant provided a saliva sample at the beginning and the end of the sixweek treatment period for analysis of levels of the stress hormones, cortisol and betaendorphin. Finally, using the Northern Ireland Maternity System (NIMATS) database, completed by midwives attending the woman during labour and birth, each woman’s labour details were available to the research team. At the end of the project, the women who had taken part were invited to attend a focus group to discuss their experiences of being part of the trial. A total of 64 (71%) women completed the study – 24 in the reflexology group, 15 in the footbath group and 25 in the usual care group. The most common reasons given for leaving the study were the development of a health condition, being unhappy with their treatment group allocation, or work commitments. In fact, most (97%) of the women randomised to the different groups said that they had hoped to be allocated to the reflexology group (Close et al, 2015). There were no adverse effects reported during the study. One woman, who was part of the reflexology intervention group, had a

In order to alleviate high levels of LBPGP, many women resort to taking pain medication such as paracetamol, co-codamol and diclofenac. All these painkillers have known potential side-effects when taken during pregnancy

stillbirth. This very sad incident was thoroughly investigated and was in no way related to any treatments she had as part of the study. However, this is one example of the many challenges and complexities which face researchers and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in maternity care.

THE RESULTS Across the six-week intervention period, LBPGP frequency increased for the participants in the footbath group and decreased in the reflexology and usual care groups. However, the reduction in the reflexology group was 1.63cm compared with a reduction of only 0.36cm in the usual care group (Close et al, 2015). A

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COMPLEMENTARY | Yoga and labour REFLEXOLOGY | Pregnancy

change on the VAS pain scale of 1.5cm or more is classified as a clinically important change (Ostelo et al, 2008; Gallagher et al, 2001), which represents a change that is meaningful to the individual (Farrar et al, 2000). With limited treatment options for LBPGP, this indicates reflexology could be an effective management option for women who may otherwise resort to medication. The team are currently working on collecting new data on the progression of LBP during and after pregnancy and the types of treatments women use to manage their pain. The findings from the study, the Watching Pregnancy Project, led by Dr Dianne Liddle, will be available later this year. Although a systematic review and meta-analysis reported that reflexology had a beneficial effect on blood pressure and heart rate (McCullough et al, 2014), the results from this study demonstrated that there were no significant changes in blood pressure or heart rate for either the reflexology or footbath groups, or between the two groups (McCullough et al, 2018). There is a large body of anecdotal evidence, along with some supporting research evidence, that reflexology and CAM in general reduce stress and promote relaxation and a sense of wellbeing. This research study was the first to test the popular hypothesis that beta-endorphin is released in response to reflexology and in this way enhances the associated feelings of wellbeing (Tiran and Chummun, 2004). Over the six-week period, beta-endorphin levels increased by 8.8% and 10.1% in the footbath and usual care groups respectively, and decreased by 15.2% for the reflexology group. Cortisol increased by 31.8% in the footbath group, 31.4% in usual care and 18.8% in the reflexology group over the six-week intervention period. Although there were no significant differences between groups for cortisol (p=0.935) or beta-endorphin (p=0.251) (McCullough et al, 2014), these results provide the first steps in determining how reflexology affects hormones and the body. Labour data was collected for 61 (95.3%) of the women who completed the study. The second stage of labour duration was available for 42 women (62.5%) who had a vaginal birth. The second stage of labour is recorded for all women by the midwife and is considered more accurate than the first stage, which is commonly self-reported as it begins long before women attend hospital. In the reflexology group the mean duration of the second stage of labour was 44 minutes shorter (73.6%); standard deviation (SD)=53.8% compared with the usual care group (117.9 minutes; SD=56.2%) (p<0.05) and the footbath group (117.4

minutes; SD=68.5%) (p=0.08). Given the current personnel and financial pressures in the health service, a reduction in labour times could provide opportunities to ease the burden on midwives.

WHAT THIS STUDY INDICATES Overall, the results indicate that reflexology is safe for women in the third trimester of pregnancy, reduces pain and associated stress, and decreases the synthesis of the stress hormones beta-endorphin and cortisol. The factors involved in a reflexology treatment are numerous and involve complex interactions of a physiological, biochemical and emotional nature. The main limitation in this study was the small sample size, which reduced the chances of statistically significant findings. Also, as is common to CAM research, the participants were not blinded to treatment allocation – in other words, they knew whether they were receiving reflexology or the sham treatment, which may have altered their views of the treatments received and their outcomes. However, weekly feedback from women in the footbath and reflexology groups was very positive. In fact, 100% of participants enjoyed both treatments and felt they were beneficial in helping them to relax and take time out for themselves. This research has added much-needed quantitative evidence for the effects of reflexology and its use during pregnancy, and highlights the need for further investigation in the area. While the findings from this trial showed limited changes for the effects of reflexology, the feedback from the women who received reflexology

“100% of participants enjoyed both treatments and felt they were beneficial in helping them to relax and take time out for themselves” was overwhelmingly in favour of the benefits that they experienced. One of the key reports was that they had enjoyed the time spent with the therapist, citing that her knowledge, experience and feedback enhanced their faith in her and helped to build rapport. Rapport and the therapeutic alliance between the patient and the caregiver can further enhance perceived benefits. The relationship and treatment

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expectations have been considered to be a function of the placebo effect and a confounder in RCTs. However, the therapeutic alliance is a mediating factor in the positive outcomes and patientreported benefits in CAM interventions, whereby paying attention to patients, providing compassionate care, and the influences therapists can have on patient anxiety and self-awareness are the key factors (Scriba 2012; Kaptchuk, 2002). In respect to the placebo and non-specific effects of CAM, while giving evidence to the House of Commons Health Committee in 2013, Professor George Lewith stated that one way to ‘develop evidence is to learn from the complementary therapies about what they do so effectively and reproduce it in conventional medicine’ (House of Commons, 2013). This study has demonstrated that reflexology is safe for pregnant women during the third trimester of pregnancy, and it is envisaged that this research will pave the way for future trials of this kind in maternity care. Acceptance by the scientific community that reflexology has a place in healthcare is a turning point for users, therapists and HCPs. The complexity and patient-centred nature of CAM therapies is beginning to be recognised, and investigated, using

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Yoga | COMPLEMENTARY Pregnancy and labour | REFLEXOLOGY

The second stage of labour In the reﬂexology group was

44 minutes shorter (73.6%)

compared with the usual care group 117.9 minutes

and the footbath group 117.4 minutes

quantitative and qualitative research techniques such as those used in the CAM in Pregnancy Trial. Furthermore, the value of the patient-therapist interaction, once considered to be the placebo effect, is now known to play a fundamental part in all therapeutic relationships.

PRACTICAL ENGAGEMENT As a reflexologist, scientist and mother, my experiences of being part of this study relate to being able to help others, enhancing my skills and knowledge, and my ‘controversial’ stance of being a CAM therapist and also a scientist. My passion for CAM therapies and experiences of giving and receiving reflexology have led me to believe that it is a powerful and beneficial therapy that can help all individuals, on a physical and emotional level. The CAM in Pregnancy Trial has allowed me to engage with, and give reflexology to, a group of pregnant women who may otherwise never have sought, or had the opportunity to experience reflexology. I was delighted to hear that they enjoyed and benefited from the treatments, particularly those women who were initially sceptical. The CAM in Pregnancy Trial was designed not only to help individual pregnant women with LBPGP, but also to investigate

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the possibility that reflexology may be beneficial to pregnant women everywhere; up until now, patient-reported benefits have only been reported anecdotally. The study findings, which tentatively suggest that reflexology could be delivered to any pregnant woman with LBPGP, to help her better cope with her symptoms and achieve other health benefits, is exciting and was brought into focus for me during a conversation with a midwife researcher at the International Congress of Midwives conference in Prague in 2014. Having attended my presentation about the study findings, she was excited to think that she might be able to use this safe, inexpensive and enjoyable treatment for poverty-stricken pregnant women in Haiti, where she was based, who otherwise have no means of obtaining pain relief. Individuals and HCPs in areas such as these face considerable barriers to the provision of healthcare. Polich et al (2010) stated that CAM researchers are ‘hands-on technicians who work at the contested interface between biomedicine and CAM’. They reported that there is ‘constant peer pressure on CAM researchers to appear and act a little more “scientific”’. In reality, it is a challenge to be a professional CAM therapist working alongside other HCPs, who may view the work as unproven, pseudoscience and of limited value in mainstream medicine. I have never felt compromised as an HCP (nutritionist) and a reflexologist, as my aim is to help others in a meaningful way and promote health and wellbeing. Similarly, I have never felt compromised as a scientist and a reflexologist, as I have investigated a hypothesis with the methodological rigour that scientific research demands. The findings of the trial have undoubtedly provided new knowledge and understanding to further inform the field of CAM research, and have also been published in peerreviewed journals, Midwifery (McCullough et al, 2017) and Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (McCullough et al, 2018; Close et al, 2015). While HCPs are becoming more engaged with the basic principles of reflexology and holism, in reality some are not prepared to embrace CAM therapies or benefits. However, with the ever-increasing wave of CAM usage by patients, it would better serve patients, and HCPs, to be armed with as much information as possible about CAM, why individuals choose to use it, and what they can learn from it. Therefore, delivering high-quality evidence-based complementary healthcare is a pivotal

step in moving towards greater integration within the healthcare system. The CAM in Pregnancy Trial, including its development and reporting the results, was part funded by the Department for Education and Learning in Northern Ireland and took five years to complete. However, funding opportunities for CAM research continue to be limited and the competition is fierce. Consequently, it may be that large trials with significant findings are some way off. It is therefore essential that reflexologists and CAM therapists continue to provide the most professional treatments possible. This includes the type and level of training and continuing professional development available and undertaken, and maintaining alliances and registration with recognised bodies and organisations. Also, therapists must keep abreast of the growing evidence base to be able to give clients the information and advice that they seek, while never losing sight of the holistic nature that allows therapists to ‘feel’ and understand their clients’ wants and needs. My experience of working as a reflexologist in a mainstream healthcare setting has given me many opportunities to talk to and debate CAM therapies with HCPs who may otherwise not have had the chance to experience or observe CAM. To realise the potential of complementary therapies requires CAM therapists, researchers and mainstream HCPs to move forward together, with mutual respect for the greater benefit of patients and healthcare globally. Reflexology and complementary therapies are an art as well as a science and there is still much to be discovered and shared. In the words of Albert Einstein: ‘After a certain high level of technical skill is achieved, science and art tend to coalesce [...] The greatest scientists are always artists as well.’ Dr Julie McCullough has been a complementary therapist for 12 years. She has a degree in human nutrition and completed her PhD at Ulster University in 2015. Julie has authored or co-authored 12 peer-reviewed papers and is currently working on the EUROlinkCAT – ConnectEpeople Project. This EU Horizon 2020 funded study aims to develop new research priorities by connecting families across Europe, who have a child with a congenital anomaly, with researchers.

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Ask an expert JULIE MCFADDEN AND BEVERLY BARTLETT ADVISE ON PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES AND OVERSEAS TREATMENTS

PICTURE: ALAMY

Q. A CLIENT HAS ASKED IF IT’S OKAY TO BE COMPLETELY NAKED FOR A FULL BODY MASSAGE TREATMENT. EVEN THOUGH I’LL BE USING MODESTY TOWELS, I’M STILL NOT COMFORTABLE WITH THIS – CAN I REFUSE?

Julie McFadden, FHT registrar and compliance manager, says: Yes. It’s very important that professional boundaries are maintained and reinforced by you, the therapist, at all times. This is particularly important in matters relating to your client’s modesty, regardless of gender, or you could find yourself at the centre of an allegation of inappropriate behaviour or sexual misconduct. If a client indicates that they want to

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remove their underwear or that they don’t want to use towels during a full body massage, this is a potential red flag. Politely advise them that it’s important that, as a professional therapist, you ensure every client’s modesty is protected at all times. If they are not happy with this, our advice is not to go ahead with the treatment. On the reverse side of the coin, it is important that you don’t say or do anything that could be construed as inappropriate behaviour by your client. This might include adjusting the top of their underwear to massage the lumbar area of their back without obtaining their permission to do so, or asking if they are comfortable with the adjustment before you continue the treatment. Sadly, our profession can attract people who want more than ‘just’ a massage. To help protect your personal safety and the

Q. I AM TRAVELLING OVERSEAS FOR A SHORT PERIOD AND WOULD LIKE TO OFFER TREATMENTS WHILE I’M AWAY. WILL MY FHT INSURANCE COVER ME? Beverly Bartlett, FHT membership and insurance manager, says: If you hold a combined medical malpractice, public and product liability insurance policy through the FHT, you are covered on a temporary basis for working in the European Union and worldwide (excluding Canada and the US) for a total of 30 days a year, at no extra cost. For example, if you are going to Spain for a fortnight and only provide treatments on ﬁve days, that would count as ﬁve of your 30 days of temporary cover for that year. You don’t have to advise the FHT when you are travelling and working abroad, but obviously this information will be recorded on your client’s consultation form and treatment notes. For an additional premium, you can extend your cover for a further 90 days – please contact the FHT for more information. If you are travelling overseas with HM Armed Forces and have a BFPO address, this is classed as British territory. Temporary cover and extensions for working overseas would not apply in this instance, provided you are only working at the base camp. However, please note that, again, your insurance through the FHT would not cover you if the BFPO is in Canada or the US – you would need to arrange insurance with a provider in that country. If you have any queries, please call the FHT membership and insurance team on 023 8062 4350.

good reputation of the profession, it is every therapist’s duty to maintain strong professional boundaries. Even the smallest concession can lead to serious problems further down the line. Refer to the FHT Code of Conduct and Professional Practice at fht.org.uk/ code for guidance on client modesty and professional boundaries, and if you are ever in any doubt, contact us for guidance.

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13/04/2018 11:59

Back issues of IT available from the FHT shop

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Have you recently joined the FHT and would like to purchase back issues of International Therapist? Or maybe you have misplaced one of your old magazines, would like copies to display in your waiting area, or were featured in an issue and want extra copies for your portfolio?

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Availability permitting, FHT members can now purchase back issues. ÂŁ3.50 per issue (inc. p&p)

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The Pocket Atlas of Human Anatomy has been produced as an aide-mĂŠmoire for the student and early practitioner of anatomy, physical therapy, chiropractic, medicine, physiotherapy, or any other health-related ďŹ eld. Containing full-colour illustrations, the book is a compact reference guide, detailing anatomical terms, tissues, bones, axial and appendicular skeletons, joints, and the musculoskeletal system. Thomas Myers outlines The Anatomy Trains myofascial meridians and two appendices illustrate the major neural pathways and the major skeletal muscles.

ISBN 978 1 905367 85 6 ÂŁ12.99 paperback available from Amazon.co.uk

When responding to an advert, please mention that you saw it in International Therapist To advertise in International Therapist please contact: E. fht@redactive.co.uk

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12/04/2018 11:21

BUSINESS | Professional advice

Down to

BUSINESS THE FHT’S GOVERNING COUNCIL OFFERS SOME BITE-SIZE BUSINESS ADVICE FOR MEMBERS

ollectively, the FHT’s Governing Council members have more than 250 years’ experience and expertise as therapists, retailers, business owners, educators and mentors (to name just a few) – a figure that is probably unparalleled by any other professional association for therapists. Here, they share some words of wisdom with our members, based on personal experience. We hope that at least one or two of these snippets of business advice resonate with you and help to make your business more successful in 2018.

PAUL BATTERSBY, PRESIDENT, ON BUSINESS ARRANGEMENTS, RENTING AND BIRTHDAY CARDS • Think very carefully before going into business with friends or family. The extra support and resources might seem like a good idea at the time, but if the relationship breaks down, things can get complicated, especially if formal agreements are not in place from the outset.

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• If you rent your business premises, make sure the contract is explicit and covers all bases. Understand what you are responsible for as a tenant, what you can and can’t do, and how long you are tied in for. • Send any clients you have seen in the past year a birthday or Christmas card – it may jog their memory to book an appointment.

MARY DALGLEISH, VICE PRESIDENT, ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-CARE • My advice to any member is: look after yourself, first and foremost. This might feel a little selfish, but is just like the advice you are given on a plane – put your own oxygen mask on first before attempting to help others! Working in the complementary health profession, I feel it’s important to be an inspiration to my clients, and I can’t do that if I don’t nurture my own body, mind and spirit. Nourishing my body with healthy food, making time for exercise I enjoy, setting healthy work limits, and

“Nourishing my body with healthy food, making time for exercise I enjoy, setting healthy work limits, and relaxing with family and friends all help create a more balanced and enjoyable life ” taking time off to relax with family and friends all help create a more balanced and enjoyable life. As we learn better self-care, I feel that we become not just better therapists, but better people in general. When we are in touch with our own feelings and are filling our own tanks with self-respect and loving care, we have much more to give to everyone else.

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Professional advice | BUSINESS

• Therapists often ask me how I deal with clients who open up or get emotional at the end of a treatment. While this is a natural response to positive touch, it’s important to maintain professional boundaries. My advice is not to try and ‘counsel’ them, unless you are qualified in counselling, otherwise your kind intentions may do more harm than good. Also bear in mind that your client might later regret what they revealed to you in that moment. We all know it’s good practice to explain to clients what to expect before a treatment. It’s also good practice – and helps to set professional boundaries – if you explain what to expect at the end. I tell my clients: ‘I’m going to leave you now to relax for 10 minutes while I make you a hot drink, and I will leave it in reception and meet you there.’ You don’t need to go back into the room, and this gives them space and time to gather themselves. If the client falls asleep, go back in and gently remind them. If they are still visibly upset, say ‘I’ll talk to you when you come down to reception’, which will naturally limit what they then share with you. Over time, if you feel your client needs more support, gently signpost them to a counsellor, or consider appropriate training if this is a service you would like to offer clients.

MARIA MASON, VICE PRESIDENT, ON PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS, AND PERSONAL BOUNDARIES

PICTURES: ALAMY; ISTOCK

• One thing I learned very early on is that leaflet drops don’t work: it’s promotion without personality. You are the most important part of your business brand. You need to find groups in your community that represent your ideal clients and go and speak to them in person – whether it’s new mother and toddler groups or a local school, a charity or sports club. As therapists, we offer a very personal service. People want to know what you look like and who you are before they commit to a hands-on treatment. • It can be good to link up with businesses that complement your own and attract a similar client base, to explore ways you can support each other. But be careful – only link up with businesses that you have researched and that you respect. As soon as you enter a reciprocal relationship, you are endorsing that company, and their business and work ethics will reflect on your own.

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HERMAN FENTON, VICE PRESIDENT, ON THE WORK/HOME LIFE DIVIDE AND PERSONAL SAFETY • Don’t include your home address on your business cards. This means prospective clients can’t just turn up at your door without an appointment. I even include ‘By appointment only’ on my cards, to make this clear to existing clients too. • When I’m working from home and my wife isn’t in, I have a radio or television quietly playing in another room, which clients can hear when they arrive. You can even go one step further and casually mention something that suggests your partner or parent is in the building. And don’t just think about these safety measures when you’re treating clients of the opposite sex – clients who are the same sex may also say or do something inappropriate. If you don’t feel safe with a client, walk away or end the treatment. • Have a separate mobile phone for business. It means you can switch it off when you’re not working without worrying about missing calls from friends and family. It also helps to keep work and home life separate.

“Have a separate mobile phone for business. It means you can switch it off when you’re not working without worrying about missing calls from friends and family” • If you’re working in the field, make sure you know the correct dress code and who you are reporting to throughout. I do a lot of work at martial arts competitions, where I have to wear black trousers and a formal white shirt – not quite as practical as my usual workwear, but it’s the rules. This leads to my final piece of advice: make sure you know the rules and regulations of any sport you are going to support.

PETER WREN, LAY MEMBER, ON EFFECTIVE BUSINESS PLANNING AND NOT RUSHING DECISIONS • There is a saying that ‘failing to plan is planning to fail’, and I believe this is true for any business, no matter how big or small. I typically make a plan that covers the next three years, which I then review every month and amend accordingly. A business plan doesn’t need to be complicated – keep it simple both in terms of your business and financial goals, and the level of detail you put into the document. There’s no point writing a really detailed plan that looks great, then just sits in a drawer until a new plan is needed. Sometimes a quick review is sufficient: have we had enough business/ clients this month? Have we got enough appointments/bookings/orders for the next month? If yes, carry on. If not, look at possible improvements. • It is always a good adage to ‘spend more time working on the business than in it’. I appreciate that this can be difficult to do when you are a sole trader, but it is important to take a step back and think about what you are doing, why you are doing it and how you can improve. Belonging to a network of similar professionals who meet regularly to exchange ideas on their respective

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BUSINESS | Professional advice

businesses has proved very useful for me. Maybe you could attend FHT local support group meetings or look up business networking events in your area. • Don’t rush or be pushed into making decisions quickly, especially when you are in a difficult position. Weigh up all the options as there is always a solution, and some of these might come to you out of the blue, when you are not even thinking about the problem at hand.

GERRI MOORE, VICE PRESIDENT, ON REPUTATION, STAFF LOYALTY AND STUDENTS • Marketing is a great way to promote what you do, but remember that the most powerful way to gain new business is through recommendation. It can take a lot longer to gain a good reputation than a bad one, particularly when people are so quick to air their grievances on social media these days, rather than talk to you in person. Encourage your clients to provide open and honest feedback so that you can respond accordingly and meet their needs. • You may expect staff to be loyal, but you have to be the primary they take the lead from. Do not expect them to do what you would not be prepared to do yourself. You may want them to be passionate about the business but it’s not theirs, so if you employ staff who are passionate about their profession, you are halfway there. Be proud of staff who have gained a promotion elsewhere or have decided to set up their own business – it may have been you that gave them the confidence and inspiration to go in another direction. • If you are training other therapists, it is your responsibility to ensure they appreciate the value of doing it your way, but be prepared for them to adapt and find their own methods (within reason). Be proud of what they achieve. And do not assume that you know everything – there is always something new to learn, and sometimes that will come from your students. Life is a learning experience.

CHERYL COLE, VICE PRESIDENT, ON GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR STAFF • Make sure you value your staff and, more importantly, pass this information on to them. Even if

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“A good working relationship is far more productive and motivational. Staff who feel truly valued are more productive, empowered and committed ” you know you’re doing a good job, it’s still nice to hear this from your employer. A good working relationship is far more productive and motivational. Staff who feel truly valued are more productive, empowered and committed. They are also happier in their work, have fewer days off and enjoy a good work/life balance.

HELEN CHAMBERS, LAY MEMBER, ON FINANCE, IT SKILLS AND TAKING TIME TO REFLECT • If you struggle with the financial side of business, don’t automatically assume you need to hire an expensive accountant.

You can obtain free advice and guidance from HMRC’s website and webinars; they are very approachable. If you still need support, book-keepers work for a much lower hourly rate than accountants, or you may be able to work with them on a fair-exchange basis (free therapy sessions for some book-keeping). If you have a high annual turnover, just use an accountant at the end of the financial year. • IT skills are really important; again, you might be able to find locally funded IT or digital marketing courses. Explore the websites of your local Chamber of Commerce and growth hub for workshops and advice in your area. Investing in a good computer – and IT support, if this just isn’t your strong point – is well worth it. Remember, you don’t have to be good at every single aspect of your business. The key is to recognise your weaknesses and get support where you need it. • Remember the importance of reflection and giving yourself time to think. I use WWW – What Went Wrong and What Went Well. Your therapy skills are an obvious area to reflect on, but don’t forget your engagement with people you deal with other than your clients, whether that’s in person or via email, your website or social media. Also think about your other skills, such as networking, organisation and diary management.

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German chamomile | ESSENTIAL OIL PROFILE

Indications Aches and pains, acne, allergic asthma,

GERMAN CHAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita)

Three varieties of chamomile are used in aromatherapy: Roman (Chamaemelum nobile), Maroc (Ormenis multicaulis) and German (Matricaria recutita), which is featured in this profile. A native of Europe, German chamomile is a fragrant, low-growing annual herb, with feathery leaves and daisy-like flowers that grow on a single stem. The essential oil is steam-distilled from the dried flower heads and has a fruity, herby aroma and middle note. The essential oil is blue and the intensity of the colour correlates with its chamazulene content. An anti-inflammatory, chamazulene is not present in the plant itself but is produced during the distillation process. Chamomile has been used throughout history to soothe digestive disorders and skin complaints. As well as being recognised in folk medicine, German chamomile has been listed in the official pharmacopoeia of 26 different countries (Salamon, 1992). Herbal tea made from the plant’s flower heads still remains popular today and is often taken to calm the mind, body and emotions.

amenorrhoea, appetite (poor), boils, burns, bursitis, colic, cystitis and other UTIs, dysmenorrhoea, eczema, fever, hay fever, headaches, indigestion, insect bites, morning sickness, nausea, premenstrual syndrome, psoriasis, rashes, rheumatism, skin (dry, sensitive or itchy), stress, tendons (inﬂamed), teething and toothache, ulcers, urticaria, wounds.

Blends with Clary sage, geranium, lavender, mandarin, sandalwood, rose, tea tree, ylang ylang.

Safety data German chamomile is reported to be non-phototoxic and contains no known carcinogens. In the proﬁle for German chamomile in Essential Oil Safety, Tisserand and Young (2014) highlight that chamazulene, farnesene and α-bisabolol inhibit enzyme CYP2D6 and, as such, ‘there is a theoretical risk of interaction between all blue chamomile oil CTs [chemotypes] and drugs metabolised by this enzyme’. A list of

Botanical family

plant species, the climate, altitude and soil where

drugs that are metabolised by CYP2D6 is provided

Asteraceae

the plant is grown, and when it is harvested. Refer

by the authors (Appendix B: page 660), and include

to the manufacturer’s safety data sheet for a

amphetamine, donezipel and tamoxifen, among

breakdown of an oil’s chemical proﬁle.

others. Caution should therefore be exercised where

Chemical composition

these drugs are indicated. For more information, see

Sesquiterpenes – chamazulene, trans-β-farnesene Oxides – α-bisabolol oxide A, α-bisabolol oxide B,

Body systems

Alcohols – α-bisabolol

Digestive, endocrine, immune, musculoskeletal,

NB: The chemical composition of German

nervous, reproductive, respiratory, skin, urinary.

RESEARCH Carpal tunnel syndrome

Therapeutic properties

A study published in Complementary Therapies in

Analgesic, antiallergenic, anti-inﬂammatory,

Clinical Practice (Hashempur et al, 2017) showed

antispasmodic, bactericidal, balancing, calming,

that the topical application of German chamomile

carminative, cicatrisant, cholagogue, emmenagogue,

oil could beneﬁt patients with mild to moderate

hormone-like, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary.

carpal tunnel syndrome.

chamomile can vary greatly, according to the

Essential Oil Safety (Tisserand and Young, 2014).

Eighty-six patients were enrolled in the randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial and received wrist splint plus topical chamomile oil or placebo for four weeks. They were evaluated at baseline and the end of the study. Dynamometry (power output), functionality and symptom severity scores of the patients were signiﬁcantly improved in the splint plus chamomile oil group compared with the placebo group. Compound latency of the median nerve in the chamomile oil group also signiﬁcantly decreased.

Chronic leg ulcer In Aromatherapy in Clinical Practice, Buckle describes the work of Ames (2006), a nurse and aromatherapist, who used essential oils on a Stage 2 chronic leg ulcer of a 70-year-old diabetic woman (Buckle, 2015). The ulcer measured 4cm by 4cm and had not responded to medical treatment. Ames applied German chamomile (10%) in grapeseed oil twice a day. The wound is reported

PICTURE: ISTOCK

to have completely healed in 13 days.

REFERENCES For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references

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BEAUTY | Skincare

Bespoke

beauty

CRISTINA COELHO, 2017 FHT BEAUTY THERAPIST OF THE YEAR, PROVIDES THREE CASE STUDIES OF CLIENTS SHE HAS HELPED WITH CHALLENGING SKIN CONDITIONS

PICTURES: ISTOCK; SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

have been working in the beauty therapy profession for 12 years. For four of these years, I have been running my own business within the Wimpole Street Clinic in London, where I specialise in CACI and Environ facials, creating tailored treatment plans for clients who have a wide range of skin challenges. I have always set out to help people become the best version of themselves and am constantly assessing and reassessing, tailoring and tweaking for each client’s needs. My experience, combined with cutting-edge technology, brings consistently great results. This inevitably raises confidence levels and also empowers my clients. I was delighted to be presented with the 2017 FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year award for providing excellent customer service. I use a non-invasive, holistic and person-centred approach when creating facials for clients, taking into account the vital role vitamins play in helping to keep the skin healthy and vibrant. Here, I present three case studies of reallife clients I have helped at my clinic with different skin challenges.

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SHARON’S STRUGGLE WITH DISCOID LUPUS CLIENT HISTORY AND INITIAL ASSESSMENT

Sharon is a 42-year-old client with discoid lupus, a chronic skin condition that can form rashes or scaly patches on the face, leading to scarring and problems with pigmentation (see Science Photo Library image below). She has severe lesions on her face and pigmentation irritation caused by the lupus. Her skin is incredibly reactive and she has had issues and irritation for more than 20 years. Stress and environmental factors can also cause flare-ups on her skin, leaving it very red, irritated, and sometimes extremely painful. Sharon has tried many different facials over the years, including medicinal and holistic, without success, and is very selfconscious about her appearance.

TREATMENT PLAN Having assessed Sharon’s skin, we started with weekly 60-minute bespoke treatments, reassessing every week. We would speak the day after her treatments and Sharon would share how her skin was reacting. This indicated the length of the next treatment and which areas needed to be worked on more. Sharon had a lot of problems with her forehead and chin, so progress with these areas was closely monitored. Treatment had to be kept simple as her skin was so reactive. I used an Environ treatment gel containing low levels of vitamin A to hydrate and heal the skin, followed by an alginate mask. The treatment gel was worked into her skin for 30 minutes

via a probe with microcurrent and sound waves running through it, which creates openings for the products to penetrate deeper into the skin. The 20-minute alginate mask massaged the products in even deeper. The Environ DF Ionzyme machine uses a combination of sound waves and pulsed waves to push serum into the skin 4,400 times, reaching the deepest layer of the dermis. We moved on from weekly to fortnightly treatments after six weeks. Her home care regimen was critical and managed on a weekly basis to avoid overstimulating the skin. Sharon would carry on using the treatment gel at night, as her skin could be dry and flaky. She used an Environ cream cleanser (no toner) and vitamin A, C and E oils during the day. This was about keeping things simple. I would use one product at a time on Sharon’s skin to check how she was reacting to it. Her skin was so sensitive that it could only take one at a time. This also allowed identification of which particular products may have been irritating her skin. For example, Sharon’s skin initially didn’t react well to colostrum, and it took more than six months before her skin was able to tolerate it. We now have monthly treatments.

PROGRESS It is now one year on, and dark pigmented areas are thinning out, flattening and disappearing. Sharon’s skin is a lot less irritated, the pain has reduced and it flakes less. All this is giving her more confidence and the results she has strived for.

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Skincare | BEAUTY

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BEAUTY | Skincare

In a testimonial Sharon kindly provided to support my FHT Excellence Award entry, she wrote: ‘When I met Cristina I immediately felt at ease. She is very personable, friendly and open. ‘Cristina gave me her mobile number and insisted that I contact her whenever I wanted to ask questions, report progress or just let off steam. I took her up on her offer because in the beginning I freaked out as my skin reacted by getting itchy, flaky and dry. I wanted to give up but felt supported by Cristina during the healing crisis. I feel Cristina is committed to helping me, which calms my fears and encourages me to be patient as my skin continues to heal. ‘Her support and care have continued to this day as my skin continues to improve, and I have noticed a dramatic improvement over the last year.’

Joana would come in every four to five weeks for bespoke treatments. I started Joana on an Environ skincare home regimen, including a treatment gel to stop breakouts and reduce redness, as well as colostrum, which supports the skin’s immune system, helps lesions and offers antioxidant protection and low levels of reparative vitamin A. In between treatments she learned to understand her skin and to use the appropriate products I recommended for her, depending on how her skin was doing. Once her skin had started to heal and the gel worked, she moved on to Environ’s AVST vitamin Step-Up SystemTM. At night she mixed her moisturiser with colostrum for balancing and healing. I also recommended the use of rehydrating oil capsules as well as cleansers and toners. We would alternate between Environ Sebuwash and a cream cleanser on good skin days.

PROGRESS

Before

After

JOANA’S RECOVERY FROM ACNE-PRONE SKIN CLIENT HISTORY AND INITIAL ASSESSMENT

Joana is a 35-year-old client with an autoimmune disease that leaves her with very sensitive and reactive skin. As an orthodontist, she must wear a mask daily, which leads to redness, irritation and painful breakouts. She is also prone to allergic reactions. Nothing she has tried to date has worked. Joana and I started working together over six months ago. On assessment she appeared to have dry, hypersensitive and acne-prone skin.

TREATMENT PLAN As Joana lives and works outside the UK, we communicated regularly, often using FaceTime and Skype. I created a programme of a 90-minute bespoke treatment once a month, which included an Environ treatment gel and vitamin A and C serum. These products contain active forms of vitamin A and C, and antioxidants. These are driven deep into the lower layers of the skin using the Environ DF Ionzyme machine to stimulate the collagen, increase the hydration, boost radiance and bring a natural glow to the skin.

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After six months, the change in Joana’s skin was excellent. Using this vitamin-based approach, I was able to calm the sensitivity and redness of her skin. While the treatment continues, Joana has made huge progress and now finds her skin less painful than in the past. She also has the tools to treat her skin at home in between more intense treatments. In a testimonial Joana kindly provided to support my FHT Excellence Award entry, she wrote: ‘After six months of facials with Cristina, the improvement was incredible. I can actually say my skin’s never been so good. The itchiness is much better, the redness has gone down, the spots have disappeared and the lines are much thinner. My skin is glowing and so am I.’

LINDA’S NON-INVASIVE ANTI-AGEING TREATMENTS CLIENT HISTORY AND INITIAL ASSESSMENT

Linda is a 72-year-old client who has ageing skin with deep wrinkles and a loss of firmness. She feels we are living in such an appearance-obsessed culture that there is real pressure on women of all ages to look good. She hates the idea of surgery and wants a less-invasive alternative that produces long-lasting results.

TREATMENT PLAN Advances in technology and an effective vitamin A regimen that I tailor to a person’s needs means that I have been able to offer a viable alternative to surgery and injectables for my more mature clientele. For Linda, I used tailored elements of an Environ Collagen Boost Facial. It’s a peptide-

Before

After

packed treatment that helps boost collagen, soften fine lines and tighten lax skin by using sound waves to drive the nutrient-rich serum deep into the lower layers of the skin. Linda initially received this treatment twice a month for three months, then every four weeks. She also followed a home regimen to complement the work in my salon, using the Environ Step-Up SystemTM, which contains vitamins A, C and E, with antioxidants to repair the skin. Essentially, this is an anti-ageing skincare routine. At night she used hydrating natural oils for a concentrated burst of hydration, as well as a tightening mask. During the day she applied a tripeptide complex serum first, then a vitamin moisturiser with a peptide mixed in to feed her skin. In winter, retinol was added to her skincare regime, while in summer this was switched to a vitamin C boost.

PROGRESS By feeding the skin through these tailored treatments and her home regimen, Linda’s skin is now more plumped and visibly less lined. This difference was evident after six months, but it was after a year when we really saw a big difference and the lasting effects of high levels of vitamin A and treatments combined. She continues to come every four weeks for treatments. Linda said: ‘I hate the idea of surgery, and I love that I can get this kind of result without resorting to needles.’ Editor’s note: Clients have given permission for their names and details to be used in this article.

Cristina Coelho, MFHT, is a specialist skin expert with more than 12 years of experience in the beauty therapy industry. She runs her own private business in London, Cristina Coelho Bespoke Facials, where she specialises in CACI and Environ facials. cristina-coelho.com

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Let us help you get business ready Here at the FHT, we know how EJGmDVMU JU DBO CF UP BEWFSUJTF ZPVS CVTJOFTT XIFUIFS ZPV SF TUBSUJOH VQ B OFX QSBDUJDF MFBSOJOH BCPVU NBSLFUJOH GPS UIF mSTU UJNF PS TJNQMZ USZJOH UP BUUSBDU OFX DMJFOUT 8F WF DSFBUFE B SBOHF PG CVTJOFTT NBUFSJBMT UP IFMQ ZPV HFU CVTJOFTT SFBEZ BOE QSPNPUF ZPVS QSPGFTTJPOBM TUBUVT JODMVEJOH UIFSBQZ MFBnFUT NBSLFUJOH MFBnFUT DPOTVMUBUJPO GPSNT BQQPJOUNFOU DBSET HJGU DBSET QPMP TIJSUT BOE MPUT NPSF 8F BMTP PGGFS UIF IJHIFTU RVBMJUZ UIFSBQZ FRVJQNFOU

Visit shop.fht.org.uk T. 023 8062 4350 (option 4) E. orders@fht.org.uk INT.Spring 2018.025.indd 2

12/04/2018 11:14

WHAT’S NEW

FHT in the press We were delighted to contribute to a number national publications in recent months, of n helping to promote both the FHT and you, hel our members:

Sharing the beneﬁts of reﬂexology

Announcing our annual conference

We were invited to write a collaborative article on reflexology with leading health insurance provider Sovereign Health Care, which covers reflexology treatments on its cash plans. In the piece, FHT Vice President Mary Dalgleish outlines a number of ways reflexology can potentially benefit a person’s health and wellbeing, including supporting those affected by stress, hormonal issues and cancer. She also highlights the importance of finding a therapist who is professional, suitably qualified and accountable, signposting readers to the FHT’s Accredited Register. As well as appearing on Sovereign Health Care’s website, the article is being distributed to journalists and publications that have a strong focus on health and wellbeing. Sovereign Health Care also lists the FHT as a recognised professional body for reflexology.

We are delighted to announce our forthcoming conference, Supporting the Integrated Healthcare Agenda, taking place on Thursday 29 November at The King’s Fund, London. This event will focus on the many ways complementary therapists can support both the public and the medical workforce – from helping patients to make positive lifestyle changes to addressing ‘effectiveness gaps’ and creating cost and time efficiencies within the NHS. FHT members will hear from keynote speakers on topics such as evidence base and researching treatment outcomes, and understanding therapies from a GP’s perspective. You will also have the opportunity to hear case studies, enjoy a networking lunch and congratulate winners and finalists in our 2018 FHT Excellence Awards presentation. A panel debate on ‘Overcoming Barriers to Integrated Healthcare’ will complete the day. Look out for further details when we launch tickets in your summer issue of International Therapist magazine.

To read the article, ‘Looking after your health – from top to toe’, visit fht.org.uk/IT-124-sovereign

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You can also find information at fht.org.uk/2018-conference

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• For In the Moment magazine – a monthly lifestyle magazine covering wellbeing, creating, living and escaping – we provided an introduction to reiki and what to expect from a reiki treatment. • In Natural Health magazine – written by leading experts, therapists and health columnists – we discussed Ayurvedic massage and how it can form part of a more holistic lifestyle. • And in The Guardian’s New Year New You supplement – filled with tips to help readers make positive changes in 2018 – we included an advert directing readers to our Find a Therapist search. It’s our mission to raise awareness of our members and the FHT’s Accredited Register – the largest accredited register for complementary healthcare therapists. Look out for updates in your monthly e-newsletter, on the FHT blog, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Alternatively, a full advertising schedule can be found at fht.org.uk/consumer-campaigns

FHT’s 2018 AGM

Top blog The FHT blog brings you the latest therapy news, health information and business resources. Here are some top posts that readers have enjoyed in recent months:

FREE ONLINE CPD OPPORTUNITIES

BEING PHYSICALLY ACTIVE CAN IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Physical activity can play an important role in building resilience and supporting mental health recovery, according to mental health charity Mind. These ﬁ ndings are revealed in the Get Set to Go programme evaluation summary of this landmark two-year project to help people with mental health problems get active.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential to good professional practice, showing the public, service users and employees that members are committed to upholding high standards. FHT members and Fellows are committed to CPD, completing a minimum of 10 points each year, and this can be done in a variety of ways – for free. We show you how.

SEAWEED EXTRACT COULD PROTECT SKIN FROM UV RADIATION

GETTING TO KNOW OUR 2017 EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS We’ve been sharing information about our Excellence Award winners. This includes profi les on Barbara Scott, who developed her own refl exology treatment protocols to help couples struggling to conceive; Cristina Coelho, who specialises in treating skin issues using a holistic, person-centred approach; and former Team GB rifl e shooter, Sheree Phelps, who has already established herself as a sports therapist after having recently retrained in the fi eld. Read all of our award winner profi les on the FHT blog.

EMMA HOLLY, MFHT, GETS A HOMETOWN HIGHLIGHT

Scientists have discovered a compound in seaweed that could protect human skin from sun damage without having a negative impact on marine ecosystems. See more on this story on page 10.

A SINGLE WORKOUT MAY PROVIDE IMMEDIATE PROTECTION FOR THE HEART A new review published in JAMA Cardiology, led by Professor Dick Thijssen from Liverpool John Moores University, suggests that a single workout can immediately protect the heart against cardiovascular disease. One episode of exercise may provide early protection of the heart for two to three hours, followed by a more robust and prolonged period of cardioprotection after 24 hours.

95% OF MEN HEAD TO THE HIGH STREET TO GET THEIR HAIR TRIMMED

The annual election of the FHT Governing Council will take place at the annual general meeting on 11 July 2018 at 10am, at our offices in Eastleigh, Hampshire. Information about the members standing for election will be available on our website from 31 May (fht.org.uk/ governing-council). You will be invited to vote online or you can obtain a postal ballot form by contacting Annie Walling at awalling@fht.org.uk. Closing date for nominations is 30 June.

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Emma Holly, a Highly Commended nominee for 2017 FHT Complementary Therapist of the Year (pictured right, with FHT Vice President Mary Dalgleish), has been featured in Hertfordshire Life magazine for her work with charities. The local publication highlights ScarWork, a unique therapy with only around 100 qualiﬁ ed practitioners in Britain.

The UK’s town centres and high streets have been in decline for many years. Online shopping, the growth of out-of-town retail outlets, and the global economic crisis have all had a detrimental effect on city and town centres. However, new research from male grooming brand The Bluebeards Revenge has suggested that, with 95% of men heading to the high street for a trim, the humble barbershop could be a secret weapon in the ﬁ ght back to save the high street. To read more, visit fht.org.uk/blog and enter a title in the search box.

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BODYWORK | Myofascial release

LEG WORK FHT ACCREDITED COURSE PROVIDER RUTH DUNCAN TALKS ABOUT TREATING LEG LENGTH DISCREPANCIES WITH MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

PICTURES: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

ow many times have you had a client say, ‘I’ve been told that I have one leg longer than the other’? I have certainly encountered this more than once, but true leg length discrepancy is actually uncommon. Normally confirmed by an x-ray, it may be the result of physical dysfunction or a structural issue at birth, such as scoliosis. However, a leg length discrepancy is more often than not due to a physical pelvic imbalance affecting the positioning of the femur in the acetabulum and can also cause issues for the knees and ankles. There are two primary physical reasons for a pelvic imbalance. One is direct trauma or injury, such as a fracture or tissue injury to the pelvis, leg or ankle. The other is tissue dysfunction from overuse, misuse, disuse or underuse, which are the most common issues manual therapists see in cases of back and gluteal pain, piriformis syndrome or sciatica-like symptoms. The client has continually loaded a specific area of their body for too long and created an imbalance, or they have not used that area of their body and it has become weak and dysfunctional.

THE PELVIS The pelvis is a basin-shaped structure at the end of the spine, attached to the sacrum and the coccyx. It protects the internal abdominal contents, including the bladder, rectum and

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in women the uterus. The pelvis is made up of three hip bones, joined by sacroiliac joints to the sacrum at the back. The hip bones curve forward to join the pubic symphysis at the front, which is a cartilaginous structure between both sides of the pelvis anteriorly. Attached to the pelvis are the muscles of the abdominal wall, the buttocks, the lower back, and the insides and backs of the thighs. Each innominate bone is made up of three fused bones: the ilium, the ischium and the pubis. Together they form the acetabulum, which is a cup-like depression ball-and-socket joint for the femur.

POSTURAL ASSESSMENT To assess for a leg length discrepancy, we will look at the body in standing. The landmarks to look for will be the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS).

STANDING ASSESSMENT Look for the following: • The heights of left and right ASIS in the anterior view. These should be level on the horizontal plane. • The heights of left and right PSIS in the posterior view. These should be level on the horizontal plane. Write down what you see, preferably on a body chart. From the anterior (front) view, is your client’s right ASIS lower or higher than their left ASIS? Take care to make sure that you note their right and left side and not yours. From the posterior (back) view, do you see their right PSIS lower or higher than their left PSIS? If you see the right ASIS lower than the left, then you should see the right PSIS higher than the left. If you see the left ASIS lower than the right, then you should see the left PSIS higher than the right. In either of these two scenarios, your client will

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Myofascial release | BODYWORK

“We sit for extended periods of time, we sleep curled up and we do lots of sports and activities; this can create an imbalance in the movement of the pelvis, positioning it in a pelvic obliquity where one side has a propensity to be more anterior and the opposite side more posterior ” FHT.ORG.UK

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have a pelvic rotation or pelvic obliquity. Imagine the sides of the pelvis as two wheels: when you walk, your leg goes forward but the pelvis on that side must roll backwards. When your leg moves backwards, your pelvis on that side must roll forwards. So, the two wheels on either side of your body move in opposite rotations in a forward and backward motion as you walk or run. So ideally, when you assess the body in standing, the two ASIS and PSIS should be level on the horizontal plane. However, we don’t just run and walk all day. We sit for extended periods of time, we sleep curled up and we do lots of sports and activities where we use certain parts of our bodies more than others; this can create an imbalance in the movement of the pelvis, positioning it in a pelvic obliquity where one side has a propensity to be more anterior and the opposite side more posterior. It’s not uncommon to assess the pelvis in standing and find a reasonable discrepancy in the heights of the PSIS and ASIS, but the client has no pain. No one is perfectly balanced, and we all have a body that is functional to our daily needs. However, sometimes the smallest discrepancy can cause excruciating pain, and this is something therapists can help with. When one side of the pelvis is stuck in a more anterior rotation than its counterpart, the positioning of the femur changes, creating what looks like a leg length discrepancy. The femur is not in the middle of the side of the pelvis, it sits more anteriorly. When the pelvis is anteriorly rotated, the femur drops down. When the pelvis is more posteriorly rotated, the femur is pulled upwards. Effectively, an anterior pelvis presents what looks like a longer leg, and a posterior pelvis presents what looks like a shorter leg. Of course, the legs haven’t changed length but their positioning in the pelvis makes them look like one is shorter than the other. The pelvis can also tilt upwards or downwards on either side, like a seesaw, which can also present in a leg length discrepancy. If one side of the pelvis is pulled up higher, the leg also comes with the pelvis, effectively shortening the leg on that side. Conversely, the other side of the pelvis must drop down, effectively lengthening the leg on that side. Some therapists call this an up slip and a down slip, and others call it a pelvic tilt. Often, you see both a pelvic obliquity with an up slip and down slip, as

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BODYWORK | Myofascial release

the pelvis can move in multiple directions at the same time. When you see an imbalance in the pelvis, you often see associated imbalances such as: • One hip higher than the other • A lateral shift in the pelvis where the client doesn’t appear to stand evenly on their legs • One knee slightly bent and the other hyperextended • One foot turning out more than the other • The body leaning forward with a lumbar lordosis • Foot and ankle problems • One shoulder higher than the other • Pain in the sacroiliac area, gluteal area and low back.

CROSS-HAND RELEASE TECHNIQUES FOR THE PELVIS AND LUMBAR There are many techniques to balance the pelvis, but here is a simple technique to remove some of the strain. Assess the pelvis to establish the ASIS that is nearer to the floor. This is the side we will treat. With the client lying supine, apply a cross-hand release technique for the anterior hip to remove tissue dysfunction. Place one hand on the client’s upper thigh with your fingers pointing to their feet, skin on skin. Place your other hand, crossed over or under your other hand, on the client’s lower abdomen, medial to their ASIS, with your fingers pointing to their opposite shoulder, again skin on skin. With hands crossed, gently contact the tissue. Allow your hands to sink slowly and gently down into the tissues until you meet resistance (barrier or end feel). This is the

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“Apply a cross-hand release technique for the anterior hip to remove tissue dysfunction” first dimension. Wait at this barrier until you feel a yielding or melting sensation allowing you to lean a little more to the floor. There may be numerous sensations of tissue melting that feel soft and somewhat bouncy. Continue with your downward pressure following each tissue change until you feel that your hands have met a firmer resistance – the deeper layers of fascia. Maintaining your pressure to the floor, slowly separate your hands until you meet resistance. This is the second dimension. Wait at these two barriers for the tissue to yield under and between your hands. As the fascia yields to your touch, you will feel motion under your hands (third dimension). Go with the motion to the next barrier, which may feel like a twist, shear or unwinding. Continue to hold these three components for at least five minutes or longer. Always be subtle and sensitive with your hands and never force the barrier. Allow the tissue to reorganise without force. Disengage from the tissues by gently reducing pressure and removing your hands. Now ask the client to lie on their side, with the side you just treated uppermost. Place a small pillow under their waist to keep their lumbar spine neutral. Straighten

their upper leg and position it in line with their spine. Place one hand, skin on skin, on their lower lateral ribcage with your fingers pointing to their shoulder. Place your other hand, skin on skin, on their iliac crest, either over or under your other hand and perform the cross-hand release again. This technique helps remove the strain pattern from one of the sides of the pelvis to create balance. We do this on the anteriorrotated innominate as it’s easier to push the anterior innominate backwards. The right side of the pelvis is usually the anteriorrotated side. With most things being rightside dominant, however, always check to see which ASIS looks lower than its counterpart and perform these two techniques on the lower ASIS side. Cross-hand release techniques form the main component of a myofascial release treatment session. The pressure used to apply the technique varies from client to client because everyone’s tissue tension is different. The skill of the technique is not in how much pressure is used, but how much resistance is felt in the client’s body. The practitioner applies the technique to tissue tension and waits for the myofascial tissue and ground substance (gel fascia) to reorganise, which can be felt as a yielding or ‘release’ of tissue tension under the hands. These two techniques are part of a series of techniques used to balance the pelvis. While they are usually effective, sometimes tissue tension is more complex than the anterior hip or lateral lumbar and further technique application is necessary. A few different assessments can be undertaken to maximise treatment efficacy. Always reassess a client’s ASIS and PSIS after applying these techniques, to see what changes have been made.

Ruth Duncan is the director of MFR UK and author of A Hands-on Guide to Myofascial Release. Ruth runs workshops across the UK, including ‘Myofascial structural series part two’, which addresses pelvic assessment and treatment for leg length discrepancy. myofascialrelease.co.uk

LEARN MORE AT FHT’S TRAINING CONGRESS Ruth will be giving a talk at FHT’s Training Congress at this year’s Holistic Health Show on Sunday 20 May, on the subject ‘Fascia – facts and ﬁction’. For more information and to book, visit fht.org.uk/congress

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Key facts | HOLISTIC HEALTH SHOW

Yearning LEARN

JOIN US AT THE 2018 FHT TRAINING CONGRESS, SUNDAY 20 AND MONDAY 21 MAY, HOLISTIC HEALTH SHOW, NEC BIRMINGHAM

he FHT is proud to once again host its Training Congress at the Holistic Health Show in Birmingham. This two-day event will feature a range of expert speakers covering a variety of topics, from therapy-specific modalities to general business advice. With 24 sessions to choose from, don’t miss this opportunity to learn new skills and grow your business. All sessions are an hour long and hosted in a suite of private training rooms, just outside the main Holistic Health Show hall, providing the ideal learning environment. And with generous breaks between each talk, you’ll have ample time to return to the main exhibition and enjoy some shopping and a bite to eat. Be sure to come and see the FHT on stand D12 to chat with the team and enjoy discounts in your members’ shop. Book your FHT Training Congress tickets today at fht.org.uk/congress

visit our website at fht.org.uk/congress for a downloadable map.

WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY TALK? HOW DO I GET THERE? The NEC is served by Birmingham International railway station, by a covered bridge link. If you are travelling by car, enter B40 1NT into your sat nav. The NEC has 16,500 parking spaces (chargeable by the venue) and provides a free shuttle bus service running to the exhibition halls. Birmingham International Airport is just a few minutes from the NEC.

WHERE IS THE FHT TRAINING CONGRESS LOCATED? The FHT Training Congress will be located just outside of the Holistic Health Show hall, in hospitality suites 28, 29 and 30. Please

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Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time to be seated for the talk. This also allows you time to look through any handouts that your speaker may have prepared for you. Be sure to leave enough time to get to the talk, as the surrounding areas of the show are expected to be very busy. Please be aware that talks cannot be delayed for delegates who are running late.

DO I NEED A SEPARATE TICKET FOR THE HOLISTIC HEALTH SHOW? Yes, you are required to book entry tickets for the Holistic Health Show through the show organisers. Visit holistichealthshow. co.uk to claim free pre-booked tickets. Please note that Holistic Health Show tickets will not be free on the day.

HOW MANY CPD POINTS WILL I GET? Each seminar is worth one CPD point, but you must attend the full seminar. Certificates will be sent out after the event; please keep these in your CPD portfolio.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING? Please bring your email confirmation or invoice (if booking by telephone), which you will need to enter the seminar rooms. We would also recommend bringing a pen, notepad and water.

CAN I BUY FHT TRAINING CONGRESS TICKETS ON THE DAY? Yes. Please make your way straight to the Training Congress, situated just outside the main Holistic Health Show hall (tickets will NOT be available at the FHT stand in the main exhibition area). Spaces are selling fast and will only be available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis on the day, so book early to avoid disappointment. Please bring your FHT membership card with you if buying tickets on the day.

CAN MY FRIEND ATTEND THE TRAINING CONGRESS? Tickets are available to non-FHT members, but please note the show organisers have a strict policy that babies and children under the age of 14 years will be refused admission.

WHERE CAN I STAY OVERNIGHT? Information on accommodation and local travel is available on the show organiser’s website at holistichealthshow.co.uk

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HOLISTIC HEALTH SHOW | What’s on

ritain’s premier complementary therapy show, Holistic Health, is back for 2018 at the NEC Birmingham. Join us and the industry’s leading brands on Sunday 20 and Monday 21 May and discover what’s new for spring and summer, save money on products, equipment and training, and take inspiration and advice from some of the key names in our industry. Free entry tickets to the Holistic Health Show are still available if you register in advance at holistichealthshow.co.uk – see the insert in this issue of International Therapist for more information.

LEADING BRANDS With hundreds of professional brands in attendance, Holistic Health will showcase all that’s new and exciting in the complementary therapy industry, while providing the opportunity to discuss how you can introduce new products and services into your business to drive you forward. Whether it’s the newest couches or equipment, a new skincare range or

BRITAIN’S PREMIER COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY SHOW, SUNDAY 20 AND MONDAY 21 MAY, NEC BIRMINGHAM

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FHT training | HOLISTIC HEALTH SHOW

the latest in therapy treatments, you’ll be surprised what you can discover at Holistic Health.

SAVE MONEY WITH OFFERS Many of this year’s exhibitors will also be running exclusive show offers and discounts for visitors across new products, training courses and professional membership. You will also have an opportunity to see the launch of a number of new products across all areas of the industry. Special offers will be announced by the show organisers on social media as the event draws nearer, so follow the Holistic Health Show on Facebook (HolisticHealthShow) and Twitter (@HHShowUK) to see what will be in store.

TRAINING CONGRESS PROGRAMME OF EVENTS The FHT is once again hosting its annual Training Congress at the Holistic Health Show. Taking place in three private seminar rooms outside of the main exhibition hall, you can choose from 24 CPD sessions, all hosted by leading therapy and business experts. SUNDAY 20

ROOM 1

ROOM 2

ROOM 3

10:30-11:30am

Adverse childhood experiences – a major factor in chronic fatigue recovery with Elaine Wilkins

Fascia – facts and ﬁction with Ruth Duncan

Marketing yourself to vulnerable clients with Jennifer Young

12:00-1:00pm

Reproﬂexology™ as an integrative approach to fertility with Barbara Scott

Kinesiology taping for the athlete with John Gibbons*

Charge what you’re worth and get it! with Emma Hague

2:00-3:00pm

Mindfulness for therapists and their therapies with Seán Collins

The Bowen technique: 25 years on with Julian Baker*

Communicating with medical professionals with Jennifer Young

3:30-4:30pm

Addressing pain and body movement with EMMETT technique with Nic Wood

Treating your client from injury to performance with Cameron Reid

Getting the most out of social media with Alison Battisby

HOLISTIC HEALTH DEMO STAGE

MONDAY 21

ROOM 1

ROOM 2

ROOM 3

If you are interested in finding out more about different complementary therapies and holistic-based treatments, the Holistic Health Demo Stage will provide bite-size 30-minute demonstrations from show exhibitors (no booking required). The stage will showcase what’s new in the complementary therapy sector, including products, different treatments and also training opportunities.

10:30-11:30am

Ayurvedic kansa wand face massage with Mary Dalgleish

Stretching your clients with Jane Johnson

Identifying your unique brilliance and authentic brand with Emma Hague

12:00-1:00pm

Laughter yoga with Lotte Mikkelsen

Rapid Making aromatherapy transformational skincare products therapy (RTT) with Penny Price with Philippa Bottrill*

2:00-3:00pm

Sugar, stress and sitting down – are they really a problem? with Lisa Smith

Postural analysis – adding the next dimension to your treatment with James Earls*

Five pointers to being with terminally ill clients with Jane Duncan Rogers

3:30-4:30pm

Effective use of crystals for stress and anxiety with Jackie Winters

Ayurvedic foot massage with Mary Dalgleish

Massage fusion: advanced techniques to treat chronic pain with Jing’s Meghan Mari and Rachel Fairweather

RELAX IN THE CHILL OUT ZONE Once again, Holistic Health will be hosting the ever-popular Chill Out Zone, offering taster treatments to visitors while raising money for a therapy-based charity. Visit the Chill Out Zone early, to book your slot.

SPA LIVE STAGE The Spa Live Stage will also be providing talks to show visitors, with speakers focusing on new trends and forecasts in the spa industry, as well as offering advice and inspiration for spa owners, managers and salon owners. Each talk will be followed by a question and answer session to provide more information.

REGISTER NOW Remember, tickets to the Holistic Health Show are free for FHT members and other therapy professionals when registered in advance of the show. Get your ticket now by visiting holistichealthshow.co.uk or calling 01332 227698. Your ticket also includes access to Holistic Health’s sister shows, Beauty UK, Hair UK and Barber UK, taking place on the same days in neighbouring exhibition halls.

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*Seminars supported by Lotus Publishing. Sessions cost just £12 for FHT members and £15 for non-FHT members. To book, please visit fht.org.uk/ congress

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SELF-CARE | Mindfulness

indfulness is a word that has gathered a great deal of momentum in recent years, with supermarket shelves now stocking dozens of magazines covering the topic. But what is mindfulness really all about, and how can it help therapists? ORIGINS OF MINDFULNESS Modern-day mindfulness has its origin in ancient Buddhist practices. Around 2,500 years ago, Siddhartha Gautama – later known as Buddha – is said to have developed a system to overcome life’s challenges after recognising that life was a struggle for most. His system, known as the eightfold path, consisted of eight steps to follow in life. One of these steps was mindfulness. In 17th-century Japan, a zen master called Hakuin published books for lay people to practise mindfulness purely for their physical and emotional wellbeing. That was possibly the beginning of the modern mindfulness movement, although there have been very notable recent developments. In 1979, Dr Jon Kabat-Zinn created an eight-week course for patients with chronic pain adapted from Buddhist teachings

SEÁN COLLINS EXPLAINS HOW MINDFULNESS CAN BE USED TO HELP PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF COMPLEMENTARY THERAPISTS

THE WAY OF

MINDFULNESS 34

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Mindfulness | SELF-CARE

on mindfulness. This course founded the mindfulness-based stress-reduction programme that is available worldwide today. Based on this work, a course was developed in the 1990s at Oxford University for individuals with depression, combining aspects of mindfulness with cognitive behavioural therapy. Today, mindfulness is widespread, and courses are delivered in hospitals, hospices, schools, universities, prisons and businesses around the world.

PICTURE: SHUTTERSTOCK

WHAT IS MINDFULNESS? At its heart, mindfulness consists of three elements: intentional, non-judgemental and present moment awareness. When practising intentional awareness, we develop our ability to focus and concentrate, the non-judgemental aspect of mindfulness develops our acceptance of reality, and the present moment allows us to accept constant change. Many therapists I have worked with have told me that at the end of the day, they often feel drained. This is because supporting and caring for others is very rewarding work but can also be physically and emotionally demanding. By incorporating mindfulness techniques into their work, therapists can help to protect their own health and wellbeing. Mindfulness can help them be more present in themselves. By being more aware of our body and posture, as well as our energy levels and mental state, we become more aware of all the stresses that we encounter over the course of the day – stresses that, if left unchecked, can leave us feeling exhausted. Being aware of these issues as they arise and relating to them differently through mindfulness can transform our relationship to our work challenges. THE WAY OF THE THERAPIST You may have heard the term ‘the way of the samurai’. This phrase reflects how a samurai’s practice was embodied in every aspect of their life. Their job, meditation and life were all one. We can develop any activity into a form of meditation, which in turn heightens our performance and ability at that activity. What would the way of the therapist look like? By using your therapies as the focus of your mindfulness and meditation, you can make it your ‘way’, helping to improve and develop every area of your work and life. Here are some suggestions of how you can develop your therapy practice into your ‘way’...

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• Laying out the treatment room – perform this mindfully. Get a sense of the air temperature. Is the air fresh? Are there essential oils in the diffuser? Is there fresh water in a jug and a glass available? All of these checks can be done with an intention of full awareness, creating the optimum treatment environment. • Self-preparation and grounding – begin each session in a strong neutral state (see ‘Naikan practice’ below). Let go of any thoughts and emotions from earlier in the day. Refresh and recharge to be ready for now. • Know your intentions – state these out loud or have them written down and read them. We aren’t always in control of outcomes but we are always in charge of our intentions. Use intention to make the most of your therapy. • Self-observation – continually check in with yourself. Are you being present? With a bit of practice, you may notice when you are less present. When you notice this, just bring your awareness back. • Acceptance – be willing to accept whatever comes up during a therapy. Things may go well and as you hoped, but sometimes things may not. When they go well, accept this graciously, and when they don’t, accept this graciously too. • Mindfulness of body, breath or senses – be aware of your breath, your body and your senses. You can also be aware of the breath and the body in your clients. (To download free meditations to support you and your clients in this mindfulness activity, see ‘More online’, right, for details.) • Closing ceremony – reflect on your intentions by tidying up and cleaning the treatment area mindfully: emptying a waste bin, switching off electrical items, removing your name badge and washing your hands. Intend to leave the therapies behind for today. • Move on – acknowledge and be present in the next part of your day, whether it’s shopping, preparing and eating food, going to the gym, walking the dog, or being a parent or partner. NAIKAN (BODY ENERGY) PRACTICE There are many mindfulness practices to work with our grounding and energy. The practice below is one of my favourites and perfect for therapists too. It is taken from the teaching of Hakuin, and is usually known as naikan (body energy) practice, but it is sometimes referred to as ‘gathering the energy of the universe’. Stand in a neutral position, take a long breath in, sweeping your arms outward and upwards over your head as you do so. Allow your breathing to be natural. Keep your

shoulders down and arms soft and relaxed. Let your awareness rise upward with this action. Sense, if you can, this quality of your arms sweeping upwards and gathering. Finish the in-breath with your hands over your head, palms facing down, fingers of each hand pointing to each other and almost touching. As you breathe out, lower your arms, bringing your hands down in front of your body, palms downwards, reaching down. Allow your awareness to flow downwards through your body, finishing at your feet. Imagine this action is drawing the energy down through your body and into your legs and feet. When your mind wanders, just keep bringing your awareness back to your breath and the movement. The full practice is to repeat this movement 21 times standing, 21 times lying down and 21 times lying down but just imagining the movements. However, you can tailor it to suit your environment and time available. Doing this for a few breaths in between every client is a great way of releasing tension and re-grounding throughout the day. Seán Collins is a qualified teacher of mindfulness and meditation, and a senior mentor at Zenways. He gained his teaching qualifications with Zenways under Julian Daizan Skinner, the first Englishman to become a zen master in the rinzai tradition. mindfulnessandmeditation.co.uk

MORE ONLINE Seán is offering FHT members three guided meditation audio ﬁles for free: a breath awareness practice, a body awareness practice and an open sensory awareness practice. To be sent a link to download the ﬁles in MP3 format and some guidance on their use, email info@mindfulnessandmeditation.co.uk and quote FHTMP3 in the subject line.

LEARN MORE AT FHT’S TRAINING CONGRESS Seán will be giving a talk at the FHT’s Training Congress at this year’s Holistic Health Show on Sunday 20 May, on ‘Mindfulness for therapists and their therapies’. For more information and to book, visit fht.org.uk/congress

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AWARDS | Showcasing excellence

Showcasing

EXCELLENCE HOW ENTERING AWARDS CAN BENEFIT YOUR CAREER AND THE WIDER HEALTHCARE AGENDA

rofessionally organised awards are an excellent opportunity for FHT members to showcase their work, and shine a spotlight on how therapies can make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of others. The publicity generated also helps to demonstrate the vital role professional therapists have to play in a more sustainable healthcare system.

2018 FHT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Now in its eighth year, the 2018 FHT Excellence Awards is open for entries and will again recognise those setting the bar in therapy education and practice. The categories for 2018 are: • • • • • •

FHT Complementary Therapist of the Year FHT Sports Therapist of the Year FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year FHT Student of the Year FHT Tutor of the Year FHT Local Support Group Co-ordinator of the Year

Top tips for entering an award Save the dates As soon as they are available, make a note of the awards entry opening and closing dates, and when they will be announcing the shortlist. Think positively and also

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make sure to plan your diary around the awards presentation date. Keep it on ﬁle If completing an online entry form, use a Word document to type up and

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Showcasing excellence | AWARDS

INTRODUCING THE COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY AWARDS

The FHT is also delighted to be supporting the Complementary Therapy Awards, launched this year. The Complementary Therapy Awards have been organised by Chamberlain Dunn, following on from the success of their long-established Advancing Healthcare Awards, which brings together 60 specialisms across the allied health professions and healthcare science. Award winners themselves, Chamberlain Dunn also works with the Healthcare People Management Association, which represents human resource professionals in UK healthcare, and for 10 years organised the most comprehensive medical careers fair in conjunction with the British Medical Journal. The FHT’s President, Paul Battersby, says: ‘These new awards will bring further recognition to best practice in our industry by highlighting how complementary therapists are successfully working alongside or supporting statutory regulated health and care professionals to enhance patient-centred care and improve treatment outcomes. Alison Dunn, joint managing director of Chamberlain Dunn, says: ‘The aim is to celebrate practitioners, teams and advocates who are enhancing the health and wellbeing of others, and help to make the business case for complementary therapy to be available to all who benefit from it.’ For further information and to enter the Complementary Therapy Awards, visit fht.org.uk/awards

MORE INFO For further advice on how to submit a winning awards entry, visit fht.org.uk/awards

save the information you intend to submit. You can then copy and paste this into the form when you are ready. It also means that you have a back-up, in case you lose internet connection while submitting the form. Also, you may be able to use the same elements for entering a different awards event.

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‘I’m not good at this sort of thing’ The judges are more interested in why you deserve an award than your writing skills, but if you are concerned that you’re not the best person to ‘sell yourself’ or the person you are nominating, ask a friend or colleague to help. A clearly written entry that focuses

good reasons to enter professional awards

Whether it’s trade or business, local or national, big or small, if you haven’t put yourself forward for an award before, here are six good reasons why you should give it a try...

PROMOTING THE THERAPIES YOU LOVE

With awards comes publicity, which is a great way to show potential clients, employers and healthcare commissioners the amazing beneﬁts different therapies offer. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of putting yourself forward, think of it as putting your favourite therapy forward instead. If you work for a charity or similar, this will gain recognition, too. And remember, those who are shortlisted or highly commended can often gain just as much publicity as the award winner.

PROMOTING BEST PRACTICE

PROMOTING EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

FUNDING THERAPY SERVICES AND RESEARCH

GOOD FOR BUSINESS

GOOD FOR EXISTING CLIENTS AND STAFF

In our annual FHT survey, two key issues always come to the fore: one is poor standards in training and practice and how this impacts the reputation of professional therapists; the other is lack of recognition from medical and other professionals, which can hinder integrating therapies into mainstream care. Awards play an important role as they highlight what best practice looks like and how many therapists can work as part of a multidisciplinary team to help improve patient-centred care.

Awards that centre around education, such as FHT Tutor of the Year, help to champion those training providers who are going the extra mile to ensure students completing their courses enter the industry with the skills to practise competently and professionally. This is vital in helping to protect the industry’s reputation.

Many therapy services rely on charitable donations and other sources of funding in order to continue supporting their clients. An award can help demonstrate the value of your work and strengthen your application for further funding.

Winning an award is a great way to boost your business. There is nothing vain or selﬁsh in gaining some recognition and publicity for your hard work. Local media usually has a strong appetite for success stories involving members of the community. Being shortlisted or winning an award could mean good exposure for your business and hopefully some new clients.

Entering an award will also help you identify what you’re doing well and what could be improved. This is a really useful business exercise. If you do go on to win, knowing that you have been recognised as ‘the best’ in the industry will impress clients who already use your services and could encourage repeat business. If you’re an employer, celebrating and sharing your success with staff can be motivational as well as being a great way to attract new talent if you’re looking to expand your team.

on the ‘important stuff’ is more likely to stand out from the crowd and impress judges. Focus on treatment outcomes The judges will be interested in how you have made a difference to clients. What are the treatment outcomes? Has your service helped to

reduce stress, pain or a speciﬁc symptom in your clients? How can you evidence that your service has made this difference? Testimonials, client surveys, feedback forms, case studies, and before and after pictures are all useful. Tools such as a visual analogue scale and MYMOP

are also good ways to measure and report on treatment outcomes. Supporting evidence Your entry can also beneﬁt from other supporting evidence – such as a letter from someone senior at the charity, hospice or centre where you work, or scanned clippings from press coverage.

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This year, our awards presentation will take place at a special FHT conference to be held at The King’s Fund, London, on 29 November, where guests will be able to hear from leading experts in education, research and integrated healthcare. To enter the 2018 FHT Excellence Awards, visit fht.org.uk/awards (entries close 30 June) and look out for further details about the FHT conference in the next issue of International Therapist.

13/04/2018 12:14

MEMBER SURVEY RESULTS

And our survey says... WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE KEY FINDINGS FROM THE 2018 FHT MEMBER SURVEY

About you…

Employment status:

hank you to the 623 members who took the time to respond to our 2018 FHT Member Survey by the February prize draw deadline. The annual survey is really important to us all at the FHT, as it gives us an insight into what matters most to our members. This helps us to improve our membership services and continue to represent you in the best way possible, providing true value for money. We appreciate that many members diligently complete a survey each year and will have noticed that some of the same questions returned. By repeating these questions we can gauge changes over the last 12 months and ensure we focus our efforts on the most current and relevant issues and concerns. On these pages you will see an overview of some of the key results…

What’s important to you as a member? The results below show just how much you value robust industry standards and keeping up to date with the latest information and skills:

84%

99%

FHT members adhere to a respected Code of Conduct and Professional Practice

96%

Being kept up to date with industry news via International Therapist magazine

96%

FHT provides an education programme for CPD

95%

FHT runs an Accredited Register, which has been independently approved by the Professional Standards Authority

93%

FHT campaigns for its members in political, educational and therapy forums

Self-employed With most of you self-employed, some may feel isolated and lack a support network of like-minded colleagues. By attending or setting up an FHT local support group in your area, you can gain much-needed support, learn about new therapies and ideas and, of course, have fun.

Where do you provide treatment?

49% 47% 14% In your own home

In your clients’ home

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In a health and wellbeing centre

13%

10%

In your own business premises

In a hospice

In a sports club or leisure centre

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MEMBER SURVEY RESULTS

More than 300 of our respondents took the time to tell us what concerns them most as a therapist: ● Growing and marketing my business (20%) – to attract new clients and continue meeting their needs. Look out for our regular business articles in International Therapist and on the FHT blog, and for business-focused talks at our Training Congress. ● Personal health and safety (18%) – from burnout, repetitive strain injury and ageing, to lone working and inappropriate requests. Read a selection of selfhelp articles in the business section of our online reading room for guidance and advice. ● Client wellbeing and satisfaction (17%) – dedication to providing the very best service possible to support clients’ needs. Access the Members’ area at fht.org.uk for specialist resources to help you go the extra mile for clients, such as a leaflet on the early warning signs of skin cancer. ● Poor standards in professional practice and training (17%) – this affects the reputation of professional therapists and the industry as a whole. It is a key reason why the FHT runs an Accredited Register, independently approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. We also organise and support awards that highlight excellence in therapy training and best practice. ● Keeping skills up to date and completing CPD (13%) – keep abreast of our different training options via our online and printed communications, including our growing offering of FHT-hosted courses across the UK and our Training Congress this May. ● Lack of recognition (12%) – from medical and other professionals, which in turn has an impact on integrating therapies into mainstream health and social care. Our Accredited Register and ongoing campaigns and public affairs work set out to demonstrate the credibility of our members and benefits of therapies.

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The most popular treatments with clients: Reﬂexology

Body massage

Aromatherapy

Reiki/healing

53% 52% 36% 30% Indian head massage

Remedial massage

Sports massage Beauty – facials

29% 23% 23% 11% You describe your clients as people seeking support with:

You regularly support clients: 100 80 60 40 20

● 63% Long-term health conditions

0 82% 65% 55% 45% 35% 35% 28% 25% 16% 16%

● 57% Relaxation or pampering ● 48% A preventative approach to health ● 29% Injuries ● 6% Aesthetic improvement

With stress and anxiety With low back pain With joint problems/mobility issues Regularly engaged in exercise or sport Caring for family and friends Diagnosed with a mental health condition (eg. depression, dementia) Who are affected by cancer Who are health professionals (eg. nurses) Receiving palliative or end-of-life care Who are pregnant

These results show a multitude of ways you help to support clients’ health and will really help us to demonstrate this to both the public and key influencers in health and care. Interestingly, the percentage for each of these client groups has increased against the 2017 survey results, suggesting that these conditions are on the increase and/or more people are coming to professional therapists for support.

About International Therapist…

98%

85%

of you feel that the quality, photographs, design, articles and advertising are either good or very good

of you read each issue of International Therapist for 21 minutes or more (with 27% reading it for more than an hour)

Most popular regulars: 77% 71% 68% 66% 63% Ask an expert

Research

Education update

Medical A-Z

CPD questions

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

PICTURES: SHUTTERSTOCK

Burning issues

About your clients…

13/04/2018 12:18

COMPLEMENTARY | Laughter yoga

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE LOTTE MIKKELSEN LOOKS AT THE BENEFITS OF LAUGHTER FOR GOOD HEALTH AND WELLBEING

f we want to experience the health benefits of laughter, then full-on mirthful laughter is the answer. There is a real buzz when people come together in a laughter club. The air is thick with anticipation; some people are anxious or excited while others are thrilled to be back with like-minded people. In a laughter club we practise laughter yoga, which takes its name from a combination of deep breathing techniques, originating from yoga, and playful laughter exercises. Laughter yoga began in 1995 when a medical doctor in India, Madan Kataria, invited a group of people to share the benefits of laughter in his local park in Mumbai. Although this started off with just five people, the movement grew rapidly and now laughter yoga is practised in more than 100 countries in regular laughter clubs. In the UK there are just under 100 laughter clubs across the country, run voluntarily by people trained as certified laughter yoga leaders and teachers. But there is still so much work to do in sharing laughter yoga, with fewer than 1,500 certified professionals in the UK.

programme for people living with MS but for the time being, we laugh on occasions and encourage self-care and self-healing through the use of therapeutic laughter.

REDISCOVERING LAUGHTER More and more people experience a lack of laughter and joy in their lives, alongside a constant search for happiness and contentment. This is usually a search outside of the self, which falls flat when happiness isn’t achieved. Many people also experience loneliness that can lead to ill health – physical, mental and emotionally. This is a great opportunity for laughter yoga to help. I hear people say they have lost connection with their sense of humour or have not laughed in a very long time. When we revisit their most recent true belly laugh, many people have to go way back. Today, many people find it a challenge to dig into the depth of their abdomen to produce belly laughter. We are a nation of control freaks who do not willingly let ourselves go in the company of strangers.

MY JOURNEY My own journey with laughter yoga started in January 2008 when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Having been close to MS in the past – my sister was diagnosed in 1989 and died in 1991 – I started researching the options of laughter as a stress management tool. The Telephone Laughter Club was launched in September 2008 and since then has laughed Monday to Friday from 7am to 7.10am. Laughing on the phone created a unique structure for me to lower stress chemicals and build up my immune defence and resilience to avoid the relapses that happen in people living with MS when stress and low resistance are present. I have been fortunate to work with the MS Society when it has included laughter yoga at many of its events. It would be fantastic to see laughter yoga as part of the treatment

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Laughter yoga | COMPLEMENTARY

IN PRACTICE

awakening and gratitude. Next step is to smile at yourself in the mirror. Don’t just imagine it but do it every morning. Start laughing with your own mirrored image even if you simply play with different ways of laughing. When you find your laughter, the moment is magical. But it may not happen overnight, it could take many days of practice.

HEALTH BENEFITS

PICTURE: ISTOCK

Over the years, much research has been conducted on the effects of therapeutic laughter. Some studies were inspired by people recovering from health conditions who used laughter as part of their treatment plan. For example, author Norman Cousins found that 10 minutes of mirthful laughter gave him two hours of pain-free sleep. Cousins inspired Dr Lee Berk and his team of researchers working in the field of psycho-neuro-immunology in the late 1970s at Loma Linda University in California. They found that heart attack patients who practised scheduled laughter had fewer recurring heart attacks, reduced stress levels and lower blood pressure. In 2011, Professor Robin Dunbar and his team at the University of Oxford conducted a study on laughter and the pain threshold. It showed that following a big bout of belly laughing, you can

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endure more pain. This is because of the increased levels of endorphins, the so-called happy hormone and a natural painkiller, released when we laugh (Dunbar, 2012). Slovenian research shows the potential of laughter yoga for people with type 2 diabetes. Practising laughter yoga inhibits the increase in postprandial blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes (ČokoliČ et al, 2013). Evidence also suggests that stress levels in cancer patients prior to chemotherapy can be controlled and lowered through regular practice of laughter yoga (Farifteh et al, 2014). Often in our stressful lives, we forget to breathe deeply. A laugh is a great extended exhalation, allowing additional air to leave the lungs and create space for the inhalation of fresh air, which then circulates throughout the body. With more oxygen to the brain, you feel refreshed, alert, motivated and productive. Laughter provides a wonderful platform for creating a positive outlook – and laughter yoga is for everyone. Lotte Mikkelsen is the founder of UnitedMind. She is a laughter ambassador and a laughter yoga master trainer, running laughter-based courses and workshops across the UK, including laughter clubs and telephone laughter. lottemikkelsen.com

REFERENCES For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references

LEARN MORE AT FHT’S TRAINING CONGRESS Lotte will be running a laughter yoga workshop at the FHT’s Training Congress at this year’s Holistic Health Show on Monday 21 May. For more information and to book, visit fht.org.uk/congress

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

PICTURES: LOTTE MIKKELSEN; SHUTTERSTOCK

We can start by simply practising laughter exercises that tickle our playfulness and trigger our sense of feeling good. The decision to laugh may start off with a pretend laugh, which in essence is saying ha-ha, ho-ho, he-he or hu-hu repeatedly. People will find that this often leads to genuine laughter. A very easy exercise when you wake up in the morning is simply to stretch and wriggle your toes and fingers, telling them good morning. When you stretch you kick-start your body’s engine and circulation – flexibility and mobility is being nurtured. Adding the little ‘good morning’ gives you a sense of

16/04/2018 14:37

REGIONAL UPDATES

Local support groups Coventry captivated by complementary therapy lead We spent a very interesting two hours with Jerry Lennon, MFHT (pictured right), complementary therapy lead at Myton Hospice, who spoke about his therapies and the organisation and clients that his team works with, write Warwickshire, Coventry LSG coordinators Helen Hudson and Dan Searles. Jerry joined Myton Hospice in 2014 and has spent more than 30 years studying a wide range of complementary and sports therapies. At the beginning of the session, Jerry took us through a meditation to help clear our minds for the evening. And at the end he gave us all an enlightening taster of sound therapy using tuning forks. He brought one of his therapists with him, who described some of the profound results they’ve achieved in

supporting clients. It was very informative, with lots of questions asked, and led to an engaging discussion afterwards. We talked about what therapies were available at Myton, where they were carried out and how the hospice is recruiting more volunteers. It was good to hear that some previous volunteers are now paid therapists at Myton’s three sites. Jerry is currently developing courses that he plans to get accredited and then teach. He has some very good ideas to add to any therapist’s portfolio and will keep us informed. Our next meeting on 4 June will be a foraging walk around Abbey Fields in Kenilworth from 7pm, with local expert Alex Hampson from Wild Earth. Read an article about Jerry’s work in our online reading room at fht.org.uk/Jerry-Lennon

Attend an LSG meeting for free

PICTURES: GETTY; ISTOCK

Come along to the local support group near you for a free session and introduce yourself to a world of knowledge in a supportive environment. Benefits include hearing from excellent speakers, attending local therapy events, going on outings, enjoying treatment swaps, sharing best practice, feeling part of a large therapy community and, of course, having fun. Simply show this voucher at your first LSG meeting. To find your nearest group, see the contact list (right) or visit fht.org.uk/lsgs

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13/04/2018 12:19

REGIONAL UPDATES

GROUP CONTACT LIST SCOTLAND

Swansea

Sussex, Eastbourne

Ayrshire

T: 01792 402242

and South Downs

T: 07989 193146

Wolverhampton

T: 01323 644007

T: 07789 242160

T: 07929 030931

T: 01424 981212

Moray, Elgin T: 07751 316663 NORTHERN ENGLAND

Worcestershire, Redditch T: 07748 902104 T: 01902 601170

Our ﬁrst meeting of the new year was all about herbs, nutrition and immunity, writes Waterlooville LSG coordinator Liz Cox. On a cold January evening, more than 20 people attended and engaged with speaker Sarah Hillyer. It was fascinating and got us thinking about how herbal tinctures have been used for centuries – if not longer. We now have two half-day workshops scheduled, so people can learn to prepare their own tinctures from herbs foraged or found in their own gardens. Thank you to everyone who attended.

T: 07773 702942 CENTRAL & SOUTHERN ENGLAND

Blackpool

Herbs and healing at Waterlooville meeting

Sussex, Worthing

T: 07563 772556

EASTERN &

Bucks (South),

Durham

CENTRAL ENGLAND

High Wycombe

T: 07855 175726

Derbyshire, Alfreton

T: 07981 294595

Harrogate

T: 07882 777587

Dorset, Bournemouth

T: 07801 885207

Leicester

Kirklees and

T: 07801 190919

Calderdale T: 07900 336067

Lincoln

T: 07855 589892 Gloucester T: 07969 323917 Hampshire,

T: 01522 518209

Waterlooville

Northampton

T: 01730 261842

T: 01604 882143

T: 023 9259 8259

T: 07967 588056

Nottingham

Hampshire,

Leeds

T: 01636 815739

Winchester

T: 07899 998970

Shefﬁeld

T: 01962 854184

Newcastle

T: 07936 506012

T: 07737 274066

Warwickshire,

T: 01914 166822

Coventry

West Cumbria

T: 07980 543139

T: 07855 589892

T: 07775 630757

Somerset, Bath

T: 01924 490851 Lancaster T: 07969 922137

T: 01946 726013

Oxford, South T: 07885 185307 T: 01235 772442 Salisbury & District

Lomi lomi learning for Bury St Edmunds

T: 01946 724419

Liverpool (Rainhill)

Bury St Edmunds

The Bury St Edmunds LSG met in January for a very interesting talk and demonstration on traditional Hawaiian lomi lomi massage, writes group coordinator Lisa Wells. The talk was given by Sam Hendricks, MFHT (pictured below), a former fighter pilot with the US Air Force (USAF). While continuing to support the USAF with work on flight simulators, Sam is now a massage therapist, a career he pursued after two tours of Iraq as his way of giving something back. He was very engaging and gave us a great insight into lomi lomi massage. Everyone had a fascinating evening. Our group meets every other month at the Bell Inn, Castle Hedingham. Future meetings include a group-guided meditation evening and a guide to social media marketing for your business.

T: 07733 115474

T: 07891 689552

Manchester, North

Ely, Cambridgeshire

T: 01616 650799

T: 07787 532827

Manchester, South

Hertfordshire

Devon, Ipplepen

T: 07824 641700

T: 07534 199126

T: 07830 020998

Staffordshire, North

T: 07557 121278

T: 07528 436843

T: 01462 730415

Somerset, Taunton

Luton and

T: 07773 071353

NORTH WALES, WEST & CENTRAL ENGLAND

T: 07960 720583 T: 07951 120176 Wigan & Leigh T: 07837 860717

West Sussex,

COUNTIES

Chichester T: 07815 455732 T: 01243 825816 SOUTH-WEST ENGLAND

Bedfordshire T: 01582 596929

T: 07976 978315

T: 07702 049696

IRELAND Donegal T: 00353 74 91 38457

T: 01978 762523 LONDON & SOUTH

NORTHERN IRELAND

SOUTH WALES &

EAST

Belfast

WEST MIDLANDS

Essex, South East

T: 07598 945933

Birmingham, East

T: 01621 774827

Coleraine

T: 07751 942234

Horsham & Crawley

T: 07707 411101

T: 07500 934286

Lisburn

T: 07771 915141 Birmingham, South T: 07812 773505 Llanelli

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T: 07885 964489

NORTHERN HOME

Wrexham

Birmingham, North

FHT.ORG.UK

T: 01225 315718 EAST ANGLIA &

North Kent T: 07971 898568 North London

T: 07709 550173 Lisnaskea T: 02867 722368 Newtownabbey

T: 07794 811562

T: 07956 559688

& Belfast

Stourbridge

Surrey and

T: 07801 988856

and Dudley

North Hants

South Tyrone

T: 01384 865126

T: 07702 074822

T: 07879 644604

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:20

SPORT | Iliopsoas tendinitis

Snap JUDGEMENT DAWN MORSE PROVIDES AN INTRODUCTION TO ILIOPSOAS TENDINITIS AND SOME TECHNIQUES TO HELP ADDRESS THE CONDITION

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FHT.ORG.UK

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Iliopsoas tendinitis | SPORT

liopsoas tendinitis is commonly known as snapping hip syndrome, coxa saltans and dancer’s hip. The condition is associated with popping, clicking or snapping sensations on hip flexion and extension. In some instances, these sensations can be accompanied by a loud noise, but are often pain-free to start with. As the condition progresses, movement can become painful, range of motion can become reduced, and further injuries can develop, such as inflammation of the associated tendon or joint damage.

misfires. Alternatively the gluteus maximus, minimus and medius can become tight and shortened, leading to restricted movement within the hip joint. However, if one muscle demonstrates restricted movement and tension upon testing, often secondary muscles within the area and opposing muscles will also be affected. Greater trochanter

Gluteus maximus

CONDITION TYPES AND CAUSES There are three types of snapping hip syndrome: internal snapping hip, external snapping hip and intra-articular snapping hip.

Gluteus maximus tendon

Iliotibial band

PICTURES: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK; SARAH AULD; ALAMY

Internal and external snapping hip

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Also referred to as extra-articular snapping hip, these two are the most common types of snapping hip syndrome. During internal snapping hip, the iliopsoas tendon can become tight and produce a snapping sensation or noise as it moves over the iliopectineal eminence, the bony protrusion of the pelvis, as illustrated in the images below. Another site of internal snapping is at the hip joint. In this instance, snapping occurs when the rectus femoris tendon moves back and forth across the ball-and-socket joint on flexion and extension. During external snapping hip syndrome, the iliotibial band or the gluteus maximus often becomes tight and produces a snapping noise when moving over the greater trochanter of the femur. In many cases, internal and external snapping hip can be caused by muscle imbalance and weakness, either around the hip joint or within the pelvis. This is often due to the iliopsoas becoming shortened and tight, while the gluteus maximus becomes weakened or

Intra-articular snapping hip In contrast to extra-articular snapping hip, intra-articular snapping hip is linked to mechanical changes in the hip joint itself, such as an acetabular labral tear, loose bodies within the joint, cartilage defects and biomechanical changes. As a result, the condition can take much longer to resolve. Further investigation with the use of x-ray and MRI may be needed to identify the cause of intra-articular snapping hip, which would obviously require referral to a consultant.

TREATING INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL SNAPPING HIP Massage techniques Sports or deep tissue massage can be used to reduce tension in the associated muscles and the ‘snapping’ tendon. Massage application should focus on treating the associated muscle and surrounding area, including the quadriceps, and paying particular attention to the rectus femoris and the origin of the

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:20

SPORT | Iliopsoas tendinitis

associated muscle. Treatment should also cover the adductor muscle group, along with the tensor fasciae latae, and gluteus medius, minimus and maximus. If treatment time allows, stripping the iliotibial band and coverage of the hamstrings will help to improve range of motion around the hip joint. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also useful to close the treatment with passive or PNF (proprioceptive

TABLE 1: STRETCHES TO AID RECOVERY FROM ILIOPSOAS TENDINITIS Stretch

Objective

Low lunge stretch

With the chest in a lifted position, to help stretch the rectus femoris and iliopsoas

Piriformis and lateral hip stretches

To help stretch out the external hip rotators

neuromuscular facilitation) stretching, to help address muscle memory and maximise range of motion at the joint.

Rest and active rest Advising rest from sport or exercise programmes while symptoms cause pain will allow the condition time to heal. Alternatively, active rest can also be advised. This would involve reducing activities that are hip-focused and switching to upper body exercise, such as swimming with a float between the legs or using an arm bike.

Self-treatment To maximise therapy benefits between treatments, the client can use a myofascial release ball to help reduce tension in the muscles around the hip. Using the palm, the client can roll the ball with firm pressure over the muscles at the front of the hip and thigh, to the side of the hip, down the iliotibial band and over the gluteal muscles.

Stretching Lying glute stretch

To help reduce tension in the gluteus maximus

Seated adductor stretch

To help lengthen the adductor muscle group

Hamstring stretch

To help lengthen and reduce tension in the hamstrings muscle group

The stretches in Table 1 will help to maintain muscle function and length, and reduce muscle tension. While symptoms are present, these stretches should ideally be done two to three times a day, to aid muscle memory and movement. Each stretch should be held for 30 to 60 seconds.

Dawn Morse, MSc, is a sports science and therapy lecturer and the proprietor of Core Elements Training. She offers a range of FHT-accredited courses, including sports massage, manual therapy and joint mobilisation, myofascial dry cupping, and kinesiology taping. coreelements.uk.com

DEVELOPING JOINT AND CORE STABILITY Stabilising the pelvis through core development can help to improve long-term stability. In some instances, stabilisation of the gluteus medius may also be needed. Useful core stabilisation exercises include forward plank, side plank, the bridge, back extensions, alternative arm to leg lift, and the side clam (for the gluteus medius). Again, while symptoms are present, these exercises should be done two to three times daily, with each position held for 30 to 60 seconds.

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Essential event This year, the FHT will be exhibiting at the COPA Series, Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading event for rehabilitation professionals On the 9 and 10 May, at ExCeL in London, the COPA Series will give delegates the opportunity to try, test and discover all the latest innovation, technology and new practices from the rehab sector. Entry is free. The show is a hub for practice growth and continuing professional development, offering 90 expert-led seminars, with practice marketing experts such as Jill Woods talking about how to promote your business effectively. Be sure to take a look at the practice growth seminar hall to find out how you can get the most from your business. This year, Rock Tape, DJO Global and Jing Advanced Massage will also be running masterclasses. With more than 200 suppliers attending, you can find everything you need for your day-to-day practice and learn about the latest technical advances in the field. Live demos will be running over the two days, showcasing new releases from leading industry suppliers. Your free COPA ticket will also grant you complete access to the Elite Sports Expo and Elevate, which will both be running alongside the show. The Elite Sports Expo is designed to showcase ways to effectively improve performance and aid rehabilitation in elite level athletes, while Elevate is the physical activity trade show. Activate your free ticket at copashow.co.uk

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13/04/2018 12:21

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20th & 21st May 2018 NEC, Birmingham

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news 10/04/2018 12:10

A DAY IN THE LIFE | Ingvild Skodvin Prestegård

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF… INGVILD SKODVIN PRESTEGÅRD, MFHT, HOLISTIC THERAPIST, YOGA TEACHER AND SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGIST

11AM I get the housework done and either go for a walk or have a yoga session in my living room. I use the Dru yoga online studio, so there are plenty of sessions to choose from. Today I choose a calm yoga session followed by a deep relaxation. It feels wonderful.

1PM I visit a client in his home and

9AM

I gently wake up, stretch, head for the shower and then massage myself with an oil blend I have prepared. Today I’m using a simple blend of rosewood and mandarin in coconut carrier oil for immune support, stress management and grounding. Having been an aromatherapist for 14 years, I understand the necessity of self-care. It is the foundation on which everything else rests. I get dressed and then prepare breakfast. I usually have an omelette with crispbread, some coffee and a glass of juice. While enjoying my breakfast, I check my calendar, catch up on emails and social media and plan my day.

2PM

Lunchtime, which today coincides with a monthly women’s forum that I have started here in Bergen, Norway. We meet at a lovely local café, share what we’re working on and what we need help with. Between ourselves, we usually manage to find good solutions. There are several other therapists here, including a doula and a zen coach. It’s a very supportive forum.

3.30PM I plan adverts and update my website for my next yoga course, which will be for people with chronic conditions. I brew a pot of Earl Grey with lemon – my afternoon treat – and drink while working. I run Red Tent gatherings and monthly reiki shares in Bergen, and

PICTURES: INGVILD SKODVIN PRESTEGÅRD

provide an individually tailored yoga session. The client is an elderly gentleman with early stages of dementia who has recently lost a lot of weight. We focus on exercises to enhance his quality of life by improving breathing and upper body strength, followed by meditation and relaxation. We plan our next session and agree that yoga and aromatherapy massage sound like a nice progression.

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48 A day in the life__International Therapist 48

today is the day for organising these for the next few months. I invite guests and speakers, plan refreshments and check I’ve got the books, music and other resources I need. I also ensure everything is ready for the yoga classes and mini retreat I’m teaching later in the week. Then I check I’ve got all my papers before getting ready for yoga.

5.30PM I ride my bike to the rooms I rent as a yoga studio and start preparing for class. I use aromatherapy in all my classes, and make sure everything is ready in good time. Today I’m using a blend with mimosa, plai, geranium, cedarwood and rosemary in my Aroma Stone essential oil burner to give a specific safe and restful, yet energising, ambiance. The class is weekly, and some of the students have been with me since I started three years ago – we know each other well. They all comment on the lovely oil blend as they enter. We start the session with a meditation from my Moon Journal book that follows the light of the seasons and phases of the moon. Students share their thoughts on the meditation before we warm up for our yoga session. We’re working on hips today and doing a lot of stretches, so I offer some Thai massage techniques that help stretch muscles and joints. The class ends with a lovely relaxation.

8.30PM

After tidying up, I grab my bike and head home. My partner is home before me, having been to karate practice. He has made us some wholesome soup, which is just perfect after a long day. We relax, talk about our day and watch Netflix. I write in my gratitude journal and feel blessed with my life.

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:22

MEMBERS’ NEWS

Essential Everest MARIA MASON, FHT VICE PRESIDENT, BRINGS ESSENTIAL OILS TO THE ROOF OF THE WORLD ON A 12-DAY EVEREST TREK

have recently returned from a demanding 12-day Nepalese trek to Mount Everest base camp. After a couple of days in the capital Kathmandu, I braved an early morning flight to Lukla to begin my trek. Lukla’s airport is considered the most dangerous in the world: the runway is completely enclosed by the mountains and has a steep gradient to slow planes down quickly and prevent them from plunging into an abyss. As soon as you step off the plane, you can feel a tightening in your chest because of the altitude (2,860m). Here I met the team I would be hiking with, including the Sherpas, cook and team leader. We were told to divide up our luggage: 5kg for us to carry and the remainder, 10kg, to be carried by Sherpas. From Lukla, we hiked for two days

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to Namche Bazaar, one of the biggest rest areas, full of markets, restaurants and wi-fi cafés. Reaching this haven at 3,440m required extreme effort: hours of steep climbing through stunning forest, crossing rivers via swaying suspension bridges and relentless physical exertion in dusty, dry heat. Days three and four were rest days in Namche. However, a ‘rest day’ is just a term for acclimatisation. This meant more steep climbing, so our bodies got used to the next stage of high altitude. I’m a diabetic, so regulating my blood sugars and food intake was pretty challenging with seven- to eight-hour climbing days. On the high slopes, you have to be aware of yaks, which are used to carry people’s kit. They run quickly along the trails and have been known to bump into people and send them flying. You hear

them coming by the sound of their bells, which is your sign to stand off the trail to the upper side of any slope. Day five involved a 7.5-mile trek to Tengboche monastery. All climbers summiting Everest stop here to be blessed. As a Buddhist, it was important for me to be able to spend time with the monks and to sit in silence in the temple. The Sherpas here spin prayer wheels, chanting the mantra ‘om mani padme hum’, giving blessings to the climb ahead. We spent the next few days continuing our hike towards Everest base camp. We slept in eco tents, which can become very smelly with walking boots and wet trekking gear. Every evening, I sprayed lavender essential oil around the tent. I never go on remote treks without essential oils. I take peppermint oil for headaches and for digestive problems, lavender to help me sleep and tea tree for anti-infection. My tea tree oil came in handy as a spray to keep bugs away, so I would spray this in the toilets and on myself. I was lucky to be the only person not to get sick. We left camp on a 10-hour trek to Everest base camp. As we continued along the path, there it was, Mount Everest, standing quietly behind the mammoth peaks of Lhotse and Nuptse. It’s one of the hardest physical and mental challenges I have ever faced in my life but one of my proudest moments. Standing at an altitude of 5,364m at base camp is euphoric, even with depleted energy levels and 50% less oxygen than at sea level. Everyone was in tears standing on the Khumbu icefall with the imposing presence of Everest looming before us. It’s something I will never forget. We ended the trek by reaching our highest point, Kala Patthar (5,545m), then we turned around and spent three days going back down to Lukla. You certainly need a good level of fitness, but more importantly in the words of our lead Sherpa: ‘Your fitness got you here, but it’s your strength of mind and courage that will take you to base camp.’

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:22

MEMBERS’ REVIEWS

SCIATICA AND PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME, BY KATHARINA BRINKMANN AND NICOLAI NAPOLSKI This book reveals the causes of sciatica and how you can treat it simply and effectively at home.

AMANDA GRAHAM, MFHT Although written for the sufferer, this very useful book provides client advice 8/10 and exercises for the newly qualified sports massage therapist (levels 4 and 5). Stretching, strengthening, dynamic, isometric and muscle-firing exercises are included, as well as work with medicine balls and thera-bands. They are well explained with photographs and tips. It’s a shame the authors don’t mention the benefits of sports massage.

EMMA LEESON, MFHT The compact A5 size of this book and informative content make it a great ‘on-the-go’ guide for sports therapists offering aftercare advice to clients. It includes clear 9/10 photographs and explanations of stretches for releasing tension, strengthening exercises, postural correction and self-myofascial release instructions for using aids, such as a foam roller. This one’s a keeper.

MEMBER OFFER FHT members can receive a 20% discount on Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome (RRP £8.99), and free postage and packaging, when purchasing from Combined Book Services. Call 01892 837171 and quote FHT20 when ordering. Offer ends: 31 July 2018.

SKIN SALVATION OMEGA-RICH CLEANSING OIL Skin Salvation Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil from Purepotions is a 100% natural blend of pure cold-pressed oils, picked for their soothing and anti-inﬂammatory properties to condition, cleanse and moisturise.

GLENDA LEVY, MFHT I’m used to opening a bottle of cleanser and getting a nice aroma, 9/10 but this was quite pungent, which I found off-putting. That aside, the consistency was beautifully rich in texture and it glided on, removing my eye make-up and the rest very well. I used a ﬂannel to remove it and my skin didn’t feel dry or greasy afterwards. As a cleanser for normal skin it was good. I would have given it 10/10 if it smelled better.

LESLEY MACKELLAR, MFHT I suffer from itchy eyes, but since using this oil I have had no more problems. I use it mainly at night and noticed there is less pufﬁness under my eyes in the morning. 9/10 It has also kept my skin protected from the elements. In three weeks my skin tone has improved and I have healthier looking skin. The only negative is the plain, oily smell.

MEMBER OFFER Take advantage of a 25% discount on your ﬁrst purchase of any of the products in the Purepotions Skin Salvation range when purchasing from purepotions.co.uk. To redeem this offer, enter the code SKIN25 at the checkout. Offer ends: 31 July 2018.

NEW PRODUCTS ANXIETY IS REALLY STRANGE, BY STEVE HAINES This highly original graphic medicine book analyses where anxiety comes from and what it means for your body. The book explains the science behind anxiety – how it is created by our nervous system trying to protect us, and how our ﬁght-orﬂight mechanisms can get stuck. Anxiety is explained in an easy-tounderstand, pictorial format with tips and strategies to relieve its symptoms and change the mind’s habits for a more positive outlook.

Price: £7.99, available from singingdragon.com

AUGEOTM CLEAN MULTI REED DIFFUSER BASE Base Formula’s new Augeo Clean Multi Reed Diffuser Base is an eco-friendly, soya-based solvent for making natural reed diffusers and room sprays. This non-ﬂammable solution has a low odour, so as not to detract from the scent of essential oils. It is also said to have excellent solubilising power and a low evaporation rate to maximise a blend’s strength of fragrance and longevity. Base Formula recommends adding between 15% and 25% of essential oils or fragrance oils to the Augeo base.

Price: £7.20, available from baseformula.com

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

50-51 Reviews__International Therapist 50

FASCIAL FITNESS THROUGH YOGA, BY KATHARINA BRINKMANN This book is a combination of two major ﬁtness trends, yoga and fascia training, and contains a catalogue of exercises and a sun salutation specially adapted for fascia – the fascia salutation. Fascial Fitness Through Yoga is aimed at anyone who wants to practise yoga and also stay supple, mobile and pain-free. Katharina Brinkmann is a yoga instructor, personal trainer and sports therapist, specialising in fascia and mobility training, which she combines in this book.

Price: £14.99, available from Combined Book Services, 01892 837171

NUTRITION FOR SPORT, EXERCISE, AND HEALTH, BY MARIE SPANO, LAURA KRUSKALL AND D TRAVIS THOMAS This book includes applied content and researchbased guidelines to help students distinguish between nutrition recommendations backed by science and the plethora of misinformation available in the ﬁeld. It covers the basics of nutrition: the functions of carbohydrates, fat and protein; the importance of hydration and electrolyte balance; and nutrition’s role in health and disease prevention.

Price: £96.99, available from humankinetics.com

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:24

DE-STRESS AROMATHERAPY BLEND Absolute Aromas’ De-stress is a calming and cheering blend with Roman chamomile and lavender to help with daily tensions, exotic jasmine to uplift and bergamot to boost mood.

Competition

PRIZE WORT H £78

SUSAN HOLLAND, MFHT This blend was not very popular with my clients, who didn’t ﬁnd it de-stressing. It was quite pleasant in 5/10 a bath, where I added it in a carrier oil. Considering the blend has more than 10 essential oils, the ylang ylang and clove oil overpowers all the others, which was disappointing. I would have liked to be able to discern the lavender and jasmine that is prominently displayed on the box.

LOUIS OLIVER-BROOKE, MFHT The aroma of the blend is pleasant and not overpowering. You can clearly make out the oils that are used and can 8/10 tell they are good quality. It blends well in a carrier oil and is quite longlasting, but I am reluctant to use it for massage as I prefer to blend my own for clients. It works exceptionally well in a diffuser, which I would recommend.

MEMBER OFFER Prices start from £6.25. For the best prices on Absolute Aromas products, visit absolute-aromas.com

Please note that product descriptions featured on these pages are provided by the supplier/manufacturer.

WOMEN FOR WOMEN PRO-COLLAGEN MARINE CREAM Elemis is proud to support Women for Women International with the 2018 limited edition ProCollagen Marine Cream. From the sales of this product, Elemis plans to donate £35,000 to the organisation to help marginalised women living in areas affected by conﬂict. In 2016 the brand sponsored a class of 25 women in Kabul, Afghanistan. The packaging was designed by Karen Mabon, the accessories illustrator and designer, who was inspired by the cream’s hero ingredient, Padina pavonica, a unique Mediterranean algae that is said to have antiageing properties.

RRP: £110 (100ml), available from elemis.com

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Two lucky members will win a Highland Wax range of massage waxes worth more than £78. The Highland Wax Company is a family-run business based outside Nairn in the Scottish Highlands. Originally practising chemists, Mary-Ann and Stuart turned their hand to beekeeping in 2014 and now use their scientiﬁc skills to develop and produce hand-crafted, natural beeswax-based products. The Highland Wax Company’s massage wax range offers professional therapists a variety of delicately formulated aromatic blends to suit every client. Winners of the competition will receive a range of six 250ml scented massage waxes (RRP £78), along with one unscented massage wax (RRP £12), which includes the following: • Be Chilled – blended with a subtle hint of patchouli, giving it a spicy oriental fragrance • Be Girlie – blended with geranium, creating a delicately ﬂoral scented ‘girlie’ product • Be Revived – an energising and uplifting citrus formulation • Be Serene – with calming, delicately scented lavender

• Be Sporty – speciﬁcally developed for working on active, tired and overworked muscles • Be Wild – inspired by forest walks • Be Natural – unscented for clients who prefer a plain, simple, neutral-smelling product. highlandwax.co.uk

TO ENTER, PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION: Near which Scottish town would you ﬁnd the Highland Wax Company? Nairn Arbroath Banff Simply email your name, address, membership number and answer to dralls@fht.org.uk, typing ‘Living Nature competition’ in the subject box. Alternatively, send your answer and details on a postcard to Living Nature Competition, FHT, 18 Shakespeare Business Centre, Hathaway Close, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 4SR. The closing date is 18 May 2018. For full competition terms and conditions, visit fht.org.uk/competitions

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 14:19

LEARNING

CPD questions

FO R M O R E IN F O R M AT IO ABO UT H OW N G A IN C P D P T O O IN T S BY R E F L E C T IN G O N YO U R FAVO U R IT E A R T IC L E S , V F H T.O R G .U IS IT K /C P D

BELOW ARE QUESTIONS RELATING TO ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE OF INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST. TO GAIN TWO CPD POINTS (UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED), ANSWER ONE OR MORE QUESTIONS RELATING TO THE SAME ARTICLE, USING A MINIMUM OF 300 WORDS IN TOTAL. IF YOU DON’T THINK THE QUESTIONS ARE HELPFUL, YOU CAN POSE YOUR OWN TO ANY OF THE ARTICLES FEATURED IN THE MAGAZINE. REFLEXOLOGY RESEARCH (P12-15)

In her article, Dr Julie McCullough, MFHT, talks about alleviating pregnancy-related low back and/or pelvic girdle pain through reflexology. Write a prospective treatment plan for supporting a non-pregnant client with low back pain, using a different therapy that you practise.

Write about a skin condition of your choice, outlining potential causes, symptoms and treatments that could be used to support a client presenting with this problem.

2018 Diary Dates 9-10 May – ExCeL London COPA Series 2018 copashow.co.uk

FHT STAND

20-21 May – NEC Birmingham 2018 FHT Training Congress at the Holistic Health Show FHT STAND & fht.org.uk/events TRAINING 10 June – Belfast Waterfront Professional Beauty Belfast professionalbeauty.co.uk 31 August - 3 September – University of Sussex, Brighton botanica2018 essentialorc/com/special-events 30 September - 1 October – Olympia London FHT Olympia Beauty STAND olympiabeauty.co.uk October – TBC Complementary Therapy Awards 2018 chamberlaindunn.co.uk/ complementary-therapy-awards

Someone who listened to a presentation by Julie about the research findings was excited to think she could use reflexology to treat povertystricken women in Haiti who otherwise can’t obtain pain relief. Provide another example of how therapies are used to support people from an underprivileged background.

29 November –

FHT EVENTS

The King’s Fund, London FHT Conference & FHT Excellence Awards presentation fht.org.uk/2018-conference

BESPOKE BEAUTY (P22-24)

Cristina Coelho, MFHT, talks about how she has helped clients with challenging skin conditions. Using her article as a template, write a short case study about a client you have supported with your therapies.

THE WAY OF MINDFULNESS (P34-35)

Seán Collins explains how simple acts of mindfulness can protect the health and wellbeing of therapists. Write about techniques you have used in your practice to support your own physical and mental health and wellbeing.

SNAP JUDGEMENT (P44-46)

Dawn Morse writes an introduction to snapping hip syndrome and outlines a number of techniques that can be used to address the condition. Write about a musculoskeletal condition of your choice and discuss what techniques could be utilised to support a client experiencing this problem.

2018 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES* FHT Member: £59.99 FHT Associate: £64.99 Student Member**: £24.99 FHT Affiliate: £34.99 Overseas Member: from £41.99 Qualified Combined Medical Malpractice, Public and Products insurance: from £46.81

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

52 CPD__International Therapist 52

For membership and insurance information or an application pack, visit fht.org.uk or call 023 8062 4350. *Ask our membership team about paying by Direct Debit – it could save you 5% on membership fees. **Includes case study insurance cover. £24.99 deducted from full membership fee on qualifying and upgrading. Terms and conditions apply.

Top 10 reasons for being an FHT member

Professional status and recognition.

Campaigning, promoting and protecting your interests as a professional therapist.

3 4

Professional representation.

Tailor-made comprehensive therapist, salon and clinic insurance policies.

6 7 8

Discounted continued professional learning.

The industry’s leading professional therapist magazine.

The UK’s largest local support group network. FHT-branded products and member discounts on therapy supplies.

9 10

Members’ helpline. FHT is a not-for-proﬁt organisation run by therapists, for therapists.

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:25

LEARNING

In the reading room

FHT ACCREDITATION MANAGER’S PICK ‘I found a short research article on lavender and sleep helpful. I have tinnitus which makes falling asleep difficult. I’m also a light sleeper. After reading this piece, I started using lavender on my pillow at night and found it really does make a difference. I’ve also used a roll-on lavender oil on my wrists to inhale and aid relaxation.’ Find this article in the Research section of the reading room (fht.org.uk/readingroom) readingroom) under ‘Lavender and sleep’.

FHT spiral no. 26

undergoing cancer treatment’. Abbigail received a special Research Award from the International Council of Reflexology (ICR) at its 2017 conference, in recognition of her contribution to reflexology. fht.org.uk/IT-124-RR-CFR

In the reading room section of the FHT website, you will find more than 350 therapy- and business-related articles and research summaries, with more added regularly. Visit fht.org.uk/ readingroom, log in and have a browse.

REFLEXOLOGY IN CANCER CARE A prospective clinical study assessed the impact of clinical foot reflexology (CFR) on 257 patients attending an NHS cancer ward and outpatient chemotherapy clinic. Authors Abbigail Langstone-Wring and A David Machin write in the conclusion of D their paper, ‘CFR has been shown to be t a useful intervention for reducing stress and a provides symptom relief to patients

EDEN ENERGY MEDICINE (EEM) Hilda Kalap, MFHT, provides an overview of EEM and what prompted her to train in this modality. Central to EEM is helping clients to return to optimum health by restoring energies that have become weak, disturbed or out of balance. fht.org.uk/IT-124-RR-EEM

TEST YOUR A&P KNOWLEDG E AN ND D

WIN A £20 AMAZON GIFT CARD

The winner will also receive a 2018 Beauty ty Shortlist award-winning Zone Facelift – Face and and Spirit Lifting Elixir (30ml).

Write your answers in a spiral from the start, working king in an anticlockwise l k direction, d ch answer is the fi first towards the centre of the grid. The last letter of each rst letter of the next. The shaded diagonal line will spell out a type of bone.

TO ENTER Simply email the word that appears in the diagonal shaded boxes to dralls@fht.org.uk (writing ‘Spring Spiral’ in the subject box), or send your answer on a postcard to the usual FHT address. Please include your name, address and membership number. Standard competition terms and conditions apply (visit fht.org.uk/ competitions). Entries to be received no later than 18 May.

CROSSWORD CLUES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

eg. ribs, metatarsals, phalanges (5) Pear-shaped organ that links the oesophagus to the small intestine (7) Initials for a retrovirus that affects the immune system (1,1,1) Tiny finger-like projections in small intestine that absorb nutrients (5) Prolonged inability to sleep (8) Gland found above each kidney (7) Lob a mug (anag.) low back pain (7) Muscle that surrounds the eye (11,5) Third/final section of the small intestine (5)

10 Chin muscle (8) 11 Nerve that extends from lower end of the spine, down the back of each thigh (7) 12 Section of spine consisting seven vertebrae (8) 13 - - - - - nodes, ducts, vessels (5) 14 Artery that supplies blood to the liver (7) 15 Jelly-like liquid in cells (9) 16 Where you’d find the submandibular and sublingual glands (5) 17 eg. vellus and terminal (4)

Solution for spiral no. 25… where is it? We do not publish spiral solutions in International Therapist, as completing spirals from the magazine can count towards your CPD (one CPD point per spiral quiz, a maximum of ﬁve points per year). Turn to page 65 for the name of the member who sent in the ﬁrst correct spiral solutions to be independently drawn from all eligible entries sent in by the allocated closing date for spiral no. 25 featured in Issue 123 (Winter 2018).

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52 CPD__International Therapist 53

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:25

LEARNING

Medical A-Z IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition affecting the digestive system, which usually includes abdominal pain, constipation and/or diarrhoea in the absence of a diagnosed disease (NHS, 2017; Peters, 2008).

CAUSES The exact cause of IBS is not yet known, but the condition could be due to stress, food passing through the gut too quickly or slowly, oversensitive nerves in the gut and/ or a family history of IBS. Stress and anxiety is also believed to exacerbate the condition. More common in women than men, IBS affects one in five people.

SYMPTOMS People with IBS will often experience stomach cramps, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. These symptoms are typically intermittent throughout life and can last for days, weeks or months at a time. The stomach cramps are usually worse after eating and alleviated with bowel movements or passing wind. People with IBS can also experience a sense of incomplete evacuation of the bowels, passing of mucus, and frustrated defecation, where you need to go to the toilet but are unable to (IBS Network, 2018). The condition can be very frustrating and have a significant impact on everyday life.

PICTURES: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

ORTHODOX TREATMENT

There is no cure for IBS, but changes in diet can help control symptoms. The NHS recommends cooking homemade meals using fresh ingredients where possible, keeping a diary of what you eat and any symptoms, finding ways to relax, getting plenty of exercise and trying probiotics for a month. The NHS also recommends avoiding a number of foods and practices that could exacerbate the condition and cause flare-ups: skipping meals; eating too quickly; eating lots of fatty, processed or spicy foods, or more than three portions of fresh fruit a day; drinking more than three cups of tea or coffee each day; and consuming lots of fizzy drinks or alcohol.

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54 Medical A-Z__International Therapist 54

COMPLEMENTARY AND SPORTS THERAPY The British Medical Association’s A-Z Family Medical Encyclopedia suggests that hypnosis has been proven effective in cases of IBS (Peters, 2008). This can be evidenced by a 2015 systematic review of gut-directed hypnotherapy in the management of IBS and inflammatory bowel disease (Peters, 2015). Reviewing published literature and clinical trials, researchers found that six of seven randomised studies for IBS reported a significant reduction in overall gastrointestinal symptoms following treatment with gut-directed hypnotherapy. Another study compared the efficacy of hypnotherapy with biofeedback and found symptom severity was more significantly reduced in the hypnotherapy group after 12 weeks (Dobbin et al, 2013). However, after 24 weeks the therapies were equally effective in improving IBS symptom severity scores and anxiety and depression ratings. Acupuncture could also have potential in the management of IBS symptoms. A study published in BMC Gastroenterology evaluated the effectiveness of the therapy for IBS when used in conjunction with standard medical care (MacPherson et al, 2012). While 117 patients continued to receive standard care alone, 116 patients received an

additional 10 weekly acupuncture sessions. After three months there was a significant difference between the two groups, with the acupuncture group reporting an 18% greater reduction in IBS symptom severity, which continued at follow-ups at six, nine and 12 months. Acupuncture in conjunction with massage could also be beneficial for people with IBS. One study divided 99 IBS patients into three groups, one receiving acupuncture in conjunction with massage, an acupuncture control group and a massage control group (Huang et al, 2006). The group receiving both therapies reported more significant improvements than those supported by a single therapy.

NB: The information provided in this article is not all-encompassing, and intended as an overview only. It should not be used for the purposes of ‘diagnosis’. Members or clients presenting with any symptoms should always consult a GP or other relevant health practitioner. The advice of a doctor, pharmacist or other suitably qualiﬁed person should be sought before taking any form of medication or treatment.

REFERENCES For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:26

RESEARCH

If you are weary of feeling tired, Thai and Swedish massage could be the answer ONE IN FIVE PEOPLE EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE TIREDNESS AT ANY GIVEN TIME, WHILE ONE IN 10 HAVE CHRONIC FATIGUE (ROYAL COLLEGE OF PSYCHIATRISTS, 2018) Fatigue and depleted energy could be addressed with weekly Swedish and Thai massage, suggests a study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (MacSween et al, 2017). Researchers from Teesside University and the University of Leeds invited 20 participants with fatigue and/or depleted energy to receive treatments with a massage therapist. The participants all agreed to commit to a six-week study and complete diary entries on how they felt after treatments in Swedish and Thai massage, administered by Susan Lorrimer, a member of the FHT. The participants were split into two

Aromatherapy can help people combat depression

groups and half of them received three weekly 45-minute Swedish massage treatments. This was followed by three in Thai massage therapy from weeks four to six. The treatment order was reversed for the other 10 participants. The results showed that both Swedish and Thai massage relieved symptoms of fatigue or depleted energy by reducing stress, promoting relaxation, relieving pain and improving energy. However, Swedish massage was more effective than Thai in improving sleep, promoting relaxation and de-stressing. Thai massage was more energising, rejuvenating and motivating and had longer lasting benefits than Swedish.

Nearly 20% of people in the UK experienced symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2014 (Mental Health Foundation, 2016). A systematic review of five medical databases has found evidence to support the efficacy of aromatherapy for alleviating depressive symptoms (Sánchez-Vidaña et al, 2017). A team of scientists at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University found 12 randomised controlled trials (with one combined) involving a total of 1,226 subjects – 984 were female and 224 male, with a mean age of 47. Two of the five inhalation studies and five of the eight massage trials reported improvements in subjects’ conditions, with the aromatherapy massage found to be more effective.

Massage therapy assists in elite para-athlete recovery

PICTURES: ALAMY; ISTOCK

THE NUMBER OF ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES PARTICIPATING IN ORGANISED SPORT IS INCREASING, ALONG WITH THE NEED FOR MORE RESEARCH ON PARA-ATHLETE INJURY PREVENTION (FAGHER AND LEXELL, 2014) Massage therapy can improve sleep and muscle tightness to aid recovery in elite para-athletes, according to a study published in BMJ Open Sport and Exercise Medicine (Kennedy et al, 2018). In a mixed methods study, scientists invited nine members of Team Roger C Peace, an elite para-cycling team from South Carolina, USA, to receive one hour of massage therapy each week for four weeks, before switching to every other week until the respective athletes left the team or the two-year study ended. Seventeen massage therapists were

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55 Research__International Therapist 55

recruited, who on average had been practising for 14 years. To monitor progress, the athletes agreed to complete a questionnaire before and after each massage session, with closed and open-ended questions on athlete goals, stress, sleep, muscle tightness, spasticity and pain. Additional information was collected from programme feedback and treatment notes from the massage therapists. The results at the end of the study revealed improvements in sleep and muscle tightness from baseline, which was

supported by individual testimony from the athletes describing how the massage had assisted their recovery while training. See the full open-access study at fht.org.uk/IT-124-paracycling

REFERENCES For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:27

Looking to expand your skill set?

CPD is a requirement for all FHT Members and Fellows, refreshing and developing your therapy skills and knowledge. CPD points can be gained through a variety of activities, including courses, and a full guide can be found at fht.org.uk/CPD

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12/04/2018 11:17

The FHT is committed to supporting every member with continuing professional KL]LSVWTLU[ *7+ ^OH[L]LY `V\Y Ă&#x201E;LSK Following popular demand, the FHT is hosting a range of courses in the coming TVU[OZ [OH[ `V\ JHU IL Z\YL TLL[ [OL OPNOLZ[ Z[HUKHYKZ Plus, FHT members get a discount of at least ÂŁ10 on each course!

Forthcoming courses include: 5 May

Being with terminally ill clients, Inverness This course will help you to be more aware with terminally ill clients, know what questions to ask, and what can be done to help them have the best end of life possible.

5 May

EMM-Tech short course, Newcastle Created by Ross Emmett, this short course teaches eleven moves specially selected from the EMMETT Technique Practitioner Course to help you, your family and your clients.

12 May

EMM-Tech short course, Reading Created by Ross Emmett, this short course teaches eleven moves specially selected from the EMMETT Technique Practitioner Course to help you, your family and your clients.

9 June

How to treat low back pain, Chichester This one-day course is predominantly practical and will teach you about the aetiology of low back pain, how it relates to your clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; condition and how it affects treatment.

16 June

How to treat neck pain, Colchester This one-day course will show you osteopathic treatment approaches and ways of assessing the neck that are practical, functional and easy to learn.

23 June

Myofascial release, Birmingham An introduction to the fundamental approaches to myofascial release, teaching you to recognise fascial dysfunction and techniques to restore balance and function.

24 June

Cancer awareness for holistic and beauty therapists, Edinburgh This is a CPD introduction to working with those affected by cancer and covers the condition, the treatment, side effects and the ways in which therapists can help.

7 July

Postural correction, London This workshop is for those who want to help clients improve their posture. It will teach you practical skills to change pelvic, thoracic and neck posture, and the rationale behind these.

8 July

Soft tissue release, London On this workshop you will learn how to incorporate soft tissue release into a massage routine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with and without oil â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on muscles of the upper limbs, lower limbs, neck and trunk.

For our full list of courses and to book your place, visit fht.org.uk/courses $QG UHPHPEHU LI WKHUH LV D FRXUVH \RX ZRXOG OLNH WR UXQ LQ \RXU DUHD ÂżQG D JURXS RI WKHUDSLVWV DQG ZHÂśOO ÂżQG WKH VSHDNHU

INT.Spring 2018.056-057.indd 3

12/04/2018 11:17

LEARNING

FHT accredited course provider news updates NEW TO FHT ACCREDITED TRAINING? FHT accreditation will ensure your qualifications and short courses have been independently and externally assessed, meeting or exceeding national standards. By achieving accreditation, you will gain: • External verification that your qualification or short course meets industry standards • Confidence that your students will be eligible for FHT membership and insurance

• Certification of your FHT accredited qualification or short course • Use of the FHT accreditation kitemark and wall plaque to display in your training centre • Exposure to the UK and Ireland’s largest therapist membership through a listing on these pages and on the FHT website. For more information, go to fht.org.uk/accreditation

FHT accredited qualiﬁcation providers IRELAND Deirdre Murray Holistic Training deirdremurray2@gmail.com Irish Institute of Nutrition & Health Ltd iinh.net Saint Martin’s College of Physical Therapy stmartinscollegecork.com

SCOTLAND Myofascial Release UK – MFR UK myofascialrelease.co.uk Therapia School of Reflexology therapiagourock.com

NORTHERN IRELAND Body and Sole bodyandsoleschool.co.uk New Beginnings School of Natural Therapies angelsanctuary.co.uk Sheila Nugent School of Reflexology sheilanugentschoolofreflexology.co.uk

NORTH WEST Breathworks breathworks-mindfulness.co.uk British Academy of Crystal Healing britishacademyofcrystalhealing.co.uk Dorn Method Academy UK (Jacqui Hamer) dornmethod.org Elaine Ellis Courses elaineellis.wixsite.com/courses KORE Academy Ltd koretherapy.com Reiki Tradition reikitradition.me.uk

NORTH EAST E.T.H.O.S. (Education, Training, Health and Online Services) ethos.uk.com Eve’s Garden (Alison Valerie Peart) alipeart@hotmail.co.uk

Leeds Holistic Training & Therapy Centre (LHTTC) lhttc.co.uk

EAST MIDLANDS Blossom & Berry Baby Massage & Yoga Training blossomandberry.com Cameron Reid Training cameronreidtraining.co.uk Penny Price Aromatherapy Ltd penny-price.com Shirley Price International College of Aromatherapy shirleyprice.co.uk Tri-Dosha tri-dosha.co.uk

WEST MIDLANDS Lorraine Davis Holistic Healthcare and Education Centre lorrainedavistraining.com Meridian School of Massage & Bodywork jlmeridian.co.uk Paadena School of Yoga & Thai Yoga Massage Therapy paadena.co.uk

WALES NEW Physiotherapy and Complementary Therapies Ltd p.battersby@glyndwr.ac.uk Gaia Education gaiaeducation.com Glyndŵr University glyndwr.ac.uk Gower College Swansea gowercollegeswansea.ac.uk TEACH Therapy teachtherapy.co.uk The School of Naturopathic Nutrition lovenaturopathy.co.uk

SOUTH WEST Barnes School of Sports Therapy barnesclinic-school.com

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

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Cheltenham School of Complementary Therapy & Beauty thetherapyschool.co.uk Core Elements coreelements.uk.com/Courses Devon School of Massage and Bodywork lhbodywork.co.uk University of St Mark & St John marjon.ac.uk NEW Sunshine Hair & Beauty Training Academy sunshinehairandbeauty.co.uk

SOUTH EAST Ayurveda Pura Academy ayurvedapura.com Brighton Holistics brightonholistics.co.uk Centre for Nutrition Education and Lifestyle Management cnelm.co.uk Cherubs Training Academy – Hampshire cherubsbabyhealth.com Crimson Catz crimsoncatz.com Elemi Training elemitraining.co.uk HypnoTC: The Hypnotherapy Training Company hypnotc.com JB Training Academy – Bedford jbtrainingacademy.co.uk London Institute of Thai Yoga Massage learntomassage.co.uk Lucis College lucisgroup.com Mary Atkinson Holistic Therapy Courses maryatkinson.org.uk

Peter Symonds Adult and Higher Education College psc.ac.uk Shared Beauty Secrets sharedbeautysecrets.com Shen Mantra shenmantra.com

NATIONAL Essential Training Solutions Ltd essential-training.co.uk Gateway Workshops gatewayworkshops.com Health Kinesiology UK hk-uk.co.uk London School of Massage bodybasicsonline.co.uk Mind International Training Associates bodymindworkers.com Stonebridge Associated Colleges stonebridge.uk.com The College of Bowen Studies thebowentechnique.com

INTERNATIONAL ASET School for Holistic Therapies juleswiltshire@outlook.com Beaubelle Academy of Cosmetology and Management beaubelle.com Cosmo Kemp School of Thai Yoga Massage cosmothaiyoga.com Health Coach Institute LLC healthcoachinstitute.com Jari Jari Spa jarijari.com.my Rinalda Therapeutic Kneads wix.com/rinalda/rinalda The Institute of Aromatherapy aromashoppe.com

MORE INFO Please visit fht.org.uk/accreditation for more information about FHT accredited qualiﬁcations and short courses.

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:28

LEARNING

FHT accredited short course providers IRELAND Churchtown Institute of Beauty & Holistic Training cibht.ie Golden Egg Holistic goldeneggholistic.com

SCOTLAND Rosslyn Alternatives rosslynalternatives.co.uk The Glasgow School of Massage theglasgowschoolofmassage.com

NORTHERN IRELAND Body and Sole School of Complementary Therapies bodyandsoleschool.co.uk Calm Confident Kids calmconfidentkids.co.uk Logan Fertility Centre loganfertility.com Sheila Nugent School of Reflexology sheilanugentschoolofreflexology.co.uk

NORTH WEST Acupuncture Training for Therapists Ltd Jon_acupuncture@btinternet.com Alternatively Better alternativelybetter.co.uk Ashwood Beauty & Holistic Academy ashwoodacademy.co.uk British Academy of Crystal Healing britishacademyofcrystalhealing.co.uk Dorn Method Academy UK (Jacqui Hamer) dornmethod.org Dorn Method Lake District dornmethodlakedistrict.co.uk Elaine Ellis Courses elaineelliscourses.co.uk Energy for Life energyforlife.today KORE Academy Ltd koretherapy.com The Master Academy/Urban Body Balance urbanbalance.co.uk

NORTH EAST Anna-Louise Haigh anna-louisehaigh.com Aries Academy of Holistic Therapies ariesacademy.co.uk Butterfly Touch Therapies butterflytouchtherapies.com Jong Baik Education jongbaik.co.uk Kinesio UK kinesiotaping.co.uk

EAST MIDLANDS Cameron Reid Training cameronreidtraining.co.uk Extraordinary Kinesiology extraordinarychannels.com Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk Helen Mary Perkins helenperkins.com Infinity Training Academy infinitytrainingacademy.co.uk Makiage Training Academy Make-Up Artistry & Massage Therapies makiage.co.uk NEW Progressive Kinesiology Academy UK progressive-kinesiology.co.uk Routes to Healing Sarahling1@googlemail.com

FHT.ORG.UK

58-59 FHT Accred__International Therapist 59

The Active School of Complementary Therapy ukmassagecourses.com Harmony-9 harmony-9.co.uk Vitali-Chi Headquarters v-chi.com

WEST MIDLANDS Beyond the Limits beyondthelimits.co.uk Central School of Massage centralschoolmassage.com Just BE (Butterfly Experience) with Jacqui Mexson jacqui.mexson@virginmedia.com Lymphoedema Training Academy Ltd lymph.org.uk Microsystems Therapies and Training annavenables.com The UK Dorn Method Centre dornmethod.co.uk Time and Fitness for You timeandfitnessforyou.com/bt-workshop/ Timeless Partnership Ltd timelesspartnership.co.uk Tranquil Heart Training Academy tranquilheart.co.uk

WALES Coleman’s Complementary Therapies holisticsforautism.wordpress.com NEW Physiotherapy and Complementary Therapies Ltd p.battersby@glyndwr.ac.uk Dynamic Massage dynamicmassage.co.uk Gower College Swansea gowercollegeswansea.ac.uk HB Training Wales Ltd hbtraining.org In The Pink! Therapies and Training inthepinktherapiesandtraining.co.uk Keep in Touch Training keepintouchtraining.co.uk Mandala Complementary Studies mcscourses.co.uk Sally Kay reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk Seren Natural Fertility serennaturalfertility.co.uk TEACH Therapy teachtherapy.co.uk Velindre Cancer Centre velindrecc.wales.nhs.uk

SOUTH WEST Advanced Massage School handsonclinic.co.uk Cheltenham School of Complementary Therapy & Beauty thetherapyschool.co.uk Complementary Therapy College complementarytherapycollege.co.uk Core Elements coreelements.uk.com/Courses Cornish Wellessence Training cornishwellessence.co.uk Cotswold Academy of Health and Beauty cotswoldacademy.co.uk

Devon Academy of Complementary Therapies devonacademy.co.uk II Intuitive Ltd 2intuitive.co.uk JemmaCo Limited jemmaco.com/training LMC Training massagefordementia.co.uk Paula Ryland: School of Holistic Therapies paularyland.co.uk Sue Chinn Holistic Training Academy suechinn@btinternet.com Susan Quayle Complementary Healthcare kidsreflex.co.uk The Good Hand Holistic Therapy Instruction thegoodhand.co.uk The Seed Institute theseedinstitute.co.uk Touchline Training Ltd touchlinetraining.co.uk Tranquillity Zone Training tranquillityzonetraining.co.uk Weston Hospicecare westonhospicecare.org.uk With Intention Healing withintention.co.uk

SOUTH EAST Academy of Advanced Beauty academyofadvancedbeauty.com Accredited Massage Courses Ltd accreditedmassagecourses.co.uk Affable Therapy affabletherapy.com Ayurveda Institute of Europe ayurvedainstitute.org Ayurveda Pura Academy ayurvedapura.com Brighton Holistics brightonholistics.co.uk Calming Influences Ltd calminginfluences.com College of Classical Massage Ltd collegeofclassicalmassage.com Corpus et Animus Holistic Therapies corpustherapies.co.uk Elemi Training elemitraining.co.uk Freedom Therapies Training freedomtherapies.co.uk Functional Reflex Therapy functionalreflextherapy.co.uk Hawaiian Massage UK Training Centre huna-massage.com Innamincka Training Services itsperou@depinaperou.plus.com Jane Sheehan footreading.com Key Workshops keyworkshops.co.uk Kneads Must / Kneader Massage (KOM) kneadsmust.com London College of Massage/Massageworks londoncollegeofmassage.co.uk London School of Complementary Health Ltd lsch.co.uk London School of Reflexology learnreflexology.com Mary Atkinson Holistic Therapy Courses maryatkinson.org.uk

Neal’s Yard Remedies School of Natural Medicine nealsyardremedies.com Purple Turtle Academy ptmassagetherapycourses.com Reflexmaster reflexmaster.co.uk RJ Buckle Associates rjbuckle.com School of Natural Therapies schoolofnaturaltherapies.co.uk Shared Beauty Secrets sharedbeautysecrets.com St Mary’s University College smuc.ac.uk/shortcourses Story Massage storymassage.co.uk Tamara Association UK tamara-association.co.uk The Holistic Academy holistic-academy.co.uk The School of Abdominal Sacral Massage abdominal-sacralmassage.com Total Release Experience (TRE UK®) treuk.com TouchPro touchpro.co.uk Training4Healthcare training4healthcare.co.uk Vulsini vulsini.com Wavestone Therapies Ltd thewavestone.co.uk Ziggie Bergman zonefacelift.com ZIIBER eileenbaron@btinternet.com

NATIONAL Essential Training Solutions Ltd essential-training.co.uk Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk Gateway Workshops gatewayworkshops.com Jennifer Young and Beauty Despite Cancer beautydespitecancer.co.uk Jenny Cox thebalanceprocedure.com London School of Massage bodybasicsonline.co.uk The Arvigo® Institute LLC arvigotherapy.com The Chrysalis Effect thechrysaliseffect.com

INTERNATIONAL Akademi Ayu Jelita SDN. BHD joanphang@yahoo.com Holistic Therapy Practice holistictherapypractice.com Jari Jari Spa jarijari.com.my Liddle Kidz Foundation liddlekidz.com PureAroma Massage Academy purearoma.com.tw RAPID Adhesion Release Technique rapidadhesionrelease.com Rustic Nirvana PTE Ltd rusticnirvana.com The Arvigo® Institute LLC arvigotherapy.com The Institute of Aromatherapy aromashoppe.com

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 12:28

INDUSTRY NEWS

Clover House Complementary Therapy Centre for Children is offering FHT members a free copy of its book, Kids in Clover, to celebrate 20 years of supporting children with massage, nutrition and creative imagery. Written by Jill Gill and the team at Clover House, the book covers a wide range of health problems that can be supported with complementary therapies. Through a series of case studies, the book describes how individual children had symptoms alleviated with massage, changes in diet and imagery techniques. Please email your name and address to Jill or give her a call on the number below to obtain your free copy. gillanngill@hotmail.com/01225 345600

New green glitter to combat world pollution Glitter company Ronald Britton has launched a new eco-friendly glitter, Bioglitter, which degrades naturally in the environment. Plastic glitter, a form of microplastic, has received particularly bad press in recent months, with concerns over its impact on marine life leading to a UK ban on its use in cosmetics. Bioglitter replaces the use of plastic in the core of glitter with a plant-based product, cellulose, which naturally decomposes when introduced to soil, compost or waste water. Ronald Britton has a range of products for the cosmetic industry, with plans to expand to other industries. bioglitter.com

Six new wins for Weleda

New retreat opens at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon A luxury hotel, spa and restaurant complex has been officially opened at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The new development – named The Retreat – is built into an 800-year-old lava flow. Guests at the hotel can even access their own private lagoons, with a number of suites facing the warm waters, while others back onto historic lava flows. A range of treatments are offered, including in-water massages and beauty treatments, as well as the ‘Blue Lagoon Ritual’, where guests can feel rejuvenated by covering their bodies with silica, algae and minerals found in the geothermal seawater. retreat.bluelagoon.com

Loughborough University to open elite athlete centre Loughborough University is to open an innovative elite athlete centre and hotel. The first of its kind, the hotel and centre will provide 44 four-star rooms and first-class training facilities, creating an environment ideal for team training camps for disabled and ablebodied athletes. Rooms at the hotel, due to open in the autumn, will feature moveable furniture, access to wet rooms and climate controls to simulate differences in altitude. eliteathletecentre.co.uk

After six months of testing entries from 40 countries, The Beauty Shortlist has announced the winners of its new International Beauty Awards, with Weleda receiving six awards. Weleda’s awards haul included wins in the Best Fairtrade/ Sustainable Brand, Best Lip Tint/Tinted Lip Balm and Best Body Wash/Shower Gel categories. Weleda’s managing director, Jayn Sterland, was especially thrilled, saying: ‘We are so honoured to win the Sustainable Brand award for a fifth consecutive year. Sustainably sourced, fairly traded ingredients are the heart and soul of our business.’ weleda.co.uk NB: The information featured on the Industry news page is based on information supplied by the training providers and product manufacturers featured. Please always check with the FHT that courses will be covered for membership and insurance purposes before booking.

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

60 Industry news__International Therapist 60

PICTURES: ALAMY; SHUTTERSTOCK

Children’s charity offering free book to FHT members

FHT.ORG.UK

16/04/2018 14:38

#lavaparty To be in with a chance of getting your hands on a VIP Invite to the Party of 2019 all you need to do is follow the SBS social media channels and look out for weekly offers, promos and giveaways â&#x20AC;Ś To ďŹ nd out more about Shared Beauty Secrets visit www.sharedbeautysecrets.com @SharedBeautySecrets

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Before you book...

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SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

13/04/2018 11:41

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FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 16:54

CLASSIFIED COMPETITION, SPIRAL AND PRIZE DRAW WINNERS

GENERAL CLASSIFIED Stylish websites for therapists: I’m Simon, a marketing professional. My wife has a successful therapy business. I’ll create you a gorgeous, modern website like hers, plus free setup and marketing advice for only £395. Email for examples: holisticwebsites@outlook.com

SITUATIONS VACANT Part-time remedial sports therapist required. Busy highstreet clinic. Must be qualified to a minimum of level 3. T. 0121 355 1228 The Cambridge Massage Company are looking for selfemployed massage therapists for mobile appointments in the Cambridgeshire region. E. hello@ thecambridgemassagecompany. com T. 07944 755585 Thriving therapy centre for sale. Just north of the Lake District, Cumbria. Two treatment rooms. T. 01697 745498 E. thebrampton therapeuticcentre@yahoo.co.uk Volunteer therapists needed for busy clinical renal units around the North West. Salford, Wigan, Bolton, Oldham and Rochdale. E. janet.cairnie@srft.nhs.uk T. 0161 206 4812

USED THERAPY ITEMS FOR SALE Carlton professional vapouriser/ steamer CC335/P. Used but in very good condition. £50. Buyer must collect. Loughton, Essex. T. 07977 939616 Massage couch disposable cotton face ring covers. 95 washable. Cost £18. Selling at £8 for the lot. T. 07713 733422 Oakworks massage chair. Excellent condition. Hardly used. Adjustment chair. Wire needs replacing. With case. £200 ono. Buyer collects. Portsmouth. T. 023 9243 2854

TREATMENT ROOMS AVAILABLE Fully equipped treatment rooms to rent. Suitable for qualified therapists. Please contact Yvonne. T. 01793 614051 Rooms available at purpose built, fully accessible therapy centre in Balham, SW London. Email manager@feelgoodbalham. co.uk for information.

MEMBERS CAN ADVERTISE IN INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST FOR FREE Please go to www.fht.org.uk/classifieds to submit your classified advert online. Alternatively, email up to 20 words, along with your name, membership number and telephone number to classifieds@fht.org. uk.

The deadline date for the next issue (Summer 2018) is Monday 25 June, 2018. Please note that members are entitled to one free lineage ad, per issue. All adverts that do not meet the free ad classifications criteria and/ or word count are charged at 90p per word (non-members £1.50) plus VAT. For more information please call 020 7880 6230 or email fht@redactive.co.uk

FHT.ORG.UK

INT CLASS Spring 2018.indd 65

JOBS WANTED Holistic therapist and reiki healer looking to do volunteer work in the South Wales area. E. a.quick@hotmail.co.uk T. 07724 659727 Homeopath available in South East London/Kent area. Also practices reflexology and reiki. E. katerinapersonal@yahoo.com T. 01689 827936 FHT DISCLAIMER: Please note that the inclusion of a product or training advert in International Therapist does not mean the FHT endorses that product or training, or that it will be automatically recognised for membership and/or insurance purposes by the FHT. Please note that the number of CPD points allocated to training may differ between course providers and professional associations. Please visit fht.org.uk/cpd to learn more about how many CPD points the FHT recognises for different training activities

BEFORE EMBARKING ON ANY PAID OR VOLUNTARY WORK OPPORTUNITY, WE STRONGLY ADVISE MEMBERS TO ENSURE THEY HAVE APPROPRIATE TRAINING, PREREQUISITES AND INSURANCE COVER (WITH THE FHT OR AN ALTERNATIVE PROVIDER) TO CARRY OUT THIS WORK.

Want to advertise in International Therapist ?

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST, ISSUE 123

2018 Member Survey Amazon gift card prize draw (p2) Winner Anne Blee, MFHT Runners up Nafisa Chomoko, MFHT Alison Iles, MFHT Ann Jones, AFHT Janice Reed, AfFHT Jane Waller, MFHT Dr Chatterjee book prize draw (p20) Basma Gale, MFHT Karen Hopes, MFHT Alison Lording, MFHT Jodie May, MFHT Linda Smith, MFHT Living Nature competition (p49) Susan Baker, MFHT Spiral £20 Amazon gift card and a copy of Connecting with Cancer, by R R Hall (p51) Narinder Sohal, AfFHT

FHT, its Directors and staff accept no responsibility for the accuracy of any description within the classified section and members should ensure they are satisfied with goods and services offered/ advertised before accepting/ purchasing.

For information and rates please contact : fht@redactive.co.uk

Apologies and corrections Reflex and development (issue 123, p24) In the ‘Reflex and development’ feature article, by Lorraine Senior, we stated that the young man mentioned in the case study was ‘pictured right and below.’ However, this was not the case. The pictures were of another client and were used for illustrative purposes only. Our sincere apologies to Lorraine, her young clients in the article and our members for this error and any inconvenience or disappointment this may have caused.

SPRING 2018 INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST

12/04/2018 16:54

ON THE COUCH

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND...

I originally trained as a teacher in Ireland, where I was born and raised, and moved to London 33 years ago, where I worked with learners of all ages and abilities. As far back as I can remember, I suffered from niggling health issues such as ear infections, sinus problems, mild hair loss and digestive disorders. These left me feeling congested, tired and generally ‘under the weather’ most of the time. Whenever I felt particularly bad, I headed off to see my doctor, who usually prescribed a course of antibiotics or other medication. In the 1990s, I began to experiment with complementary therapies as I realised that perhaps my health problems could be tackled if I got to the root cause, rather than continually addressing the symptoms. Following advice from my sister, who was studying diet and nutrition, I began to make changes to my diet and found that by reducing my consumption of dairy products, my sinus congestion and ear disorders were greatly relieved. I then became fascinated with aromatherapy, which helped alleviate my stress and digestive problems; Indian head massage, which improved the condition of my hair; facial rejuvenation, which did wonders for my skin and self-esteem; ear candling which alleviated my ear problems; and reflexology, which had a balancing effect on my whole body. I went on to gain qualifications in all these therapies and, after a few years, I moved from my job as a primary school teacher to practising and teaching complementary therapies full-time.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A THERAPIST?

I enjoy the freedom of being self-employed. I love working with my clients as they teach me a lot, and it feels great to see the beneficial effects of the treatments I offer.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE QUALITIES OF A GOOD PRACTITIONER?

Excellent customer-service skills and a willingness to accommodate clients’ needs. Happy clients spread the word about your business and, in my experience, this is the best form of advertising. The ability to selfpromote without being overbearing and good management skills are also important to make a success of your business.

WE SPEAK TO MARY DALGLEISH, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FHT

go a long way. And never give up your own learning, whether it’s from your students, fellow therapists or formal training.

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE ROLE OF FHT VICE PRESIDENT?

When the opportunity arose to join the board, I had no hesitation. I particularly enjoy responding to queries, contributing to health-related articles and working with other board members and staff to ensure we meet our members’ needs and promote the great work they do.

WHAT KEY CHANGE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE HAPPEN FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INDUSTRY?

It would be great to see more public funding for research, to provide an evidence base for the safety and effectiveness of different therapies. It is easier to advocate our profession to commissioners and policy-makers when armed with evidence of how therapy services can improve health outcomes.

AND FOR A THERAPY TUTOR?

Preparation and patience are key, but a sense of fun is also important – learning should be enjoyable. Expect the best of your students and encourage those who may be struggling – a little bit of praise can

Pride and joy

INTERNATIONAL THERAPIST SPRING 2018

66 On the couch__International Therapist 66

WHAT DO YOU DO TO RELAX AND UNWIND?

Every day, I take time out to do a mindfulness ‘self-knowledge’ practice, which helps me to stop, feel my breath, say ‘thank you’ and be

mindful of what’s really important in life and of all the gifts I already have. I like to do this first thing in the morning; it really sets me up for the day ahead and helps me to live more in the moment and feel the joy of simply being alive, irrespective of my circumstances. As a therapist who offers lifestyle advice to my clients, I also ensure that I practise what I preach, so I make time for regular exercise and leisure activities. I particularly enjoy aqua aerobics, long walks in nature and socialising with family and friends.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE QUOTE OR SAYING?

I once heard someone say: ‘Find a job that you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.’ It really resonated with me, and I vowed that one day I would feel this way about my job. Now I can honestly say that I do.

Mary Dalgleish, FHT Vice President, completed her ﬁrst therapy qualiﬁcation in 1999, following a career in education. As well as running her own busy practice, she teaches a range of complementary therapies in London and Dublin, and regularly writes for health and wellbeing magazines. head2toemassage.co.uk

FHT.ORG.UK

13/04/2018 12:31

Looking for a professional therapist to join your tea m? Get your job listed on the FHT’s job opportunities webpage and ILULÄ[ MYVT! A direct link to your advert on two of FHT’s monthly e-newsletters, sent to more than 12,500 FHT members A direct link to your advert on FHT’s Facebook page, which has more than 12,500 likes A direct link to your advert on FHT’s Twitter page, which has more than 5,600 followers A direct link to your advert on FHT’s LinkedIn page, which has more than 5,600 followers A quick link on the FHT job opportunities section of our website, which receives 91,760 page views per month

Visit fht.org.uk/jobs

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Keeping you covered……

NOW WITH PERSONAL ACCIDENT COVER AS STANDARD, COVERING YOU IN CASE YOU BECOME UNABLE TO WORK, AND PROVIDING FOR YOUR NEXT-OF-KIN IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENTAL DEATH.

At the FHT, we are extremely proud to have kept our membership premiums frozen for more than eight consecutive years, and thanks to our insurance partners Hiscox, we’re also able to ensure you are covered with a market-leading insurance policy that keeps you and your clients safe.

Our medical malpractice, public and products liability insurance policy covers more than 360 therapies, with lots of added extras included as standard too: • Up to £5,000 to cover expenses that arise from identity fraud • Up to 30 days cover to work abroad • 9 LWSHJLTLU[ VѝJPHS KVJ\TLU[Z PM SVZ[ or irrevocably damaged • Much more; details available at fht.org.uk Not taking advantage of our marketleading insurance policy yet? Make sure you ask your current provider what’s included, or give our membership team a call today for information about upgrading.

INSURANCE PROVIDED BY:

Terms & conditions apply. See fht.org.uk for details.

Call 023 8062 4350 or email info@fht.org.uk DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THERAPISTS FULL DETAILS AT FHT.ORG.UK/INSURANCE INT.Spring 2018.068.indd 2

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