October 10, 2007
Bodywork for Clients With Calcium Deposits |
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An estimated 42 percent of Americans process calcium deposits. These bumps can be found in many different areas of the body and range from barely noticeable to painfully obtrusive. Although their diagnosis is beyond the scope of practice for massage therapists, professional bodyworkers can learn how best to handle clients with calcium deposits.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Calcinosis is the development of hard calcium deposits that form on the skin or in the body. There are four main types of calcinosis: dystrophic calcinosis, metastatic calcinosis, iatrogenic calcinosis and idiopathic calcinosis.
1. Dystrophic calcinosis is the most common type of calcium deposit, where people do not have a higher than normal level of calcium and phosphate in their blood. Calcification tends to occur around the site of a recent surgery or wound. Simple acne or minor cuts may cause dystrophic calcinosis, which usually occurs in the presence of damaged skin or other soft tissues. Tissue damage from autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma can result in calcinosis around the damaged areas. An injured joint or a tumor can also damage surrounding tissue, prompting the formation of calcium deposits. Dystrophic calcinosis typically results in calcium lumps localized to the area of tissue damage. However, some autoimmune disorders that result in damage to soft tissues in multiple areas may cause a systemic distribution of calcinosis lumps.
2. Metastatic calcinosis is caused by the presence of too much calcium and/or phosphate in a person’s blood. As a result, calcium deposits tend to build easily in various locations throughout the body. The main cause of metastatic calcinosis is a failure of the kidneys to rid the body of excess calcium and phosphates. Some other causes of metastatic calcinosis include:
· Overstimulation of the thyroid gland that can produce excessive calcium and phosphates in the blood supply.
· A deficiency of magnesium, a mineral required for proper calcium absorption.
· Diseases that destroy bone tissue, like Pagets Disease, or various bone cancers that cause metastatic calcinosis.
3. Idiopathic calcinosis may arise in children born with birth defects of the soft tissues. Some conditions, like Down’s syndrome, increase vulnerability to calcium deposits.
4. Iatrogenic calcinosis is usually localized to a single site where tissues have been damaged through surgery. For example, children who undergo frequent heel sticks to withdraw blood may develop calcium deposits on their heels.
Locations
While the pathology is not fully understood, there are many locations calcium deposits are found:
· If scar tissue calcifies, old injuries can result in calcium deposits. This is most typical on tendons and bone.
· Scleroderma, dermatomyositis and systemic lupus are all autoimmune diseases that can involve the development of calcium deposits, typically in the fingers.
· Calcific tendonitis is a condition that causes the formation of a small calcium deposit within the tendons of the rotator cuff.
· Calcium deposits can form in the blood vessels causing stiffening and contributing to atherosclerosis. This is not the type of calcium deposits a massage therapist would feel.
What Does It Feel Like?
Most early calcium deposits are very soft, but after a long time, they dry up and become chalk-like, sometimes even turning into bone. The probability of a massage therapist palpating a calcium deposit will depend on its location. A likely location is on the anterior border of the tibia, a bone prone to bumps and bruises. These likely will be felt under the skin, yet are attached to the bone.
Working with Calcinosis
Because most massage therapists are not licensed to diagnose medical conditions, it is important to have a client confirm the cause of any bodily lumps and bumps with his/her physician. An evaluation by a primary care physician can rule out anything more serious than a calcium deposit.
When the therapist knows the encountered bump is a calcium deposit, take relief in knowing that they generally are not dangerous. However, as the size of the deposit increases, it can put pressure on surrounding structures, causing inflammation and pain. As long as massage does not irritate the calcifications, they can be ignored.
Of interesting note to the massage therapist is that calcium deposits generally form at the body’s weakest points. Therefore, arthritic joints are highly prone to developing these protrusions. This knowledge can prompt the massage professional to find out more about a particular location, which may enhance the therapeutic purpose of a session. For example, being aware of a calcium deposit on the knee may prompt asking a client whether any pain or weakness exists around the joint. A positive response may indicate focused work on the musculature supporting the knee to relax any tightened muscles and increase circulation around the weakened joint.
The more knowledgeable massage therapists are about the anomalies they encounter, the more safe and effective treatment they can administer. While calcium deposits do not pose imminent danger to bodywork, a massage therapist will gain confidence in understanding why the bump might be there, and how they can provide the most therapeutic massage possible.
Recommended Study:
Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
References:
Werner, Ruth, LMP, NCTMB, Cysts, Cysts, Cysts!, Massage Today, November 2006.
www.askwaltstollmd.com, Calcium Deposits, Dr. Walt Stoll, 2006.
www.ezinearticles.com, Frequently Asked Questions about Calcium Deposits, Jeremy Low, calcium.articlekeep.com, 2006.
www.orthopedics.about.com, Calcific Tendonitis, Jonathan Cluett MD, About Inc., 2006.
www.wisegeek.com, What is Calcinosis?, Tricia Ellis-Christensen, Conjecture Corporation, 2006.
Posted by Editors at 11:56 AM
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October 09, 2007
The Triple Burner Meridian and Therapeutic Massage |
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While most meridians of Chinese Medicine are associated with a familiar organ, one stands out as the source of much mystery. Discover the keys to stimulating the triple burner meridian to ensure a therapeutic session.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Also referred to as the san jiao, triple warmer, triple energizer and triple heater, the triple burner metabolizes the fluids of our body. All of our body fluids (blood, sweat, tears, saliva, urine, etc.) originate from the food and drink we consume. Food and drink are transformed and separated by the spleen into “clean” and “dirty” parts. Clean fluids are directed to the lungs and skin, while the kidneys and small intestine process dirty fluids to be excreted as urine. According to Chinese Medicine, this process is a simplified version of how our body metabolizes fluids. The triple burner is responsible for the generation, transportation and removal of all body fluids.
Functions of the Three Burners
There are three portions that comprise the triple burner – the upper burner, middle burner and lower burner.
Upper burner – The main physiological process of the upper burner is distributing the body’s fluids via the action of the lungs. Often referred to as a mist, the upper burner is responsible for transforming the body’s energy into a vapor that maintains the lubrication necessary for healthful respiration. This vapor also assures the skin’s moisture, a necessary immunity guard to prohibit pathogens from invading the body. Our physical shield against viruses and bacteria, skin is our first line of defense against airborne illnesses.
Middle burner – The main physiological processes in the middle burner relate to digestion. In the process of digestion, the middle burner’s spleen and stomach break down food and drink by separating what is to be absorbed from what is to be excreted. Referred to as the maceration chamber, the middle burner is where nourishment is garnered and transported throughout the body.
Lower burner – The main physiological process in the lower burner is the separation of fluids for excretion in the form of urine. Referred to as the drainage ditch, the lower burner incorporates the functions of the small intestine, kidney and urinary bladder.
The Channel
The location of the triple burner is integral in understanding why its manipulation has such a significant impact.
Starting at the tip of the ring finger, the triple burner channel progresses dorsally between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones and up the lateral aspect of the arm, between the radius and ulna. It then climbs up the posterior portion of the arm to the shoulder joint and the supraclavicular fossa, where an internal branch descends into the chest, through the diaphragm to the abdomen. From the supraclavicular fossa, the triple burner channel ascends along the lateral portion of the neck to just behind the ear (where a branch connects with the gallbladder) before it dips down to the cheek and ends in the infra-orbital region. Due to its course, bodyworkers address the triple burner meridian for issues involving the lateral aspect of the forearm and arm, the shoulder, neck, ear and eye conditions.
Triple Burner Pathology
Because the triple burner is not a distinct organ, its pathology can incorporate many different patterns. Recognizing a typical triple burner disharmony is the best indicator of when to include bodywork on this meridian. Since the applications are so broad, the pathologies will be discussed according to the location, namely, the upper, middle and lower burners.
Upper burner – When the misting function of the upper burner is impaired, it typically leads to a breakdown of our defenses. This can result in a cold, with symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, temperature, sore throat, body aches, etc. Specific to the triple burner meridian are symptoms that correspond with the channel location, such as earache, pain behind the ears, cheek swelling, sore throat and pain in the outer canthus of the eye.
Middle burner – When the macerating function of the middle burner is impaired, there is an imbalance in the digestive process. Most typical of a triple burner imbalance are food retention issues, such as bloating, nausea, heartburn and excessive belching. Clients with these symptoms are likely too sensitive to endure abdominal massage. This scenario presents an ideal time to work with the triple burner meridian.
Lower burner – When the drainage ditch is not functioning properly, there are problems with water retention and urination. Imbalances involving the triple burner can include lower leg edema, burning urination, urinary retention, loss of bladder control and frequent urination. If a client shares any clues indicative of a lower burner imbalance, working on the triple burner meridian could positively benefit them.
With an understanding of the triple burner, massage therapists can take advantage of its easily accessible location to healthfully impact some very complex body imbalances. As our system for creating, processing and eliminating fluids, the triple burner is fascinating, and no longer mysterious.
Recommended Study:
Shiatsu Anma
References:
Maciocia, Giovanni, The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, Churchill Livingstone, New York, NY, 1989.
Posted by Editors at 02:26 PM
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October 08, 2007
Understanding Body Odor |
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Massage therapy requires prolonged, close contact with people. This can be particularly challenging when clients have body odor. Certain body odors are normal and can easily be addressed, while others may be cause for a physician’s referral. In this helpful article you’ll learn how to minimize unpleasant smells and find out when the situation might require medical attention.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Conventional wisdom suggests that perspiration is the cause of body odor. Perspiration is the body’s way of cooling off; a pea-sized bead of sweat can cool about one quart of blood by one degree Fahrenheit. Exposure to heat, physical activity and emotional stress can all prompt the body to activate its internal cooling system – perspiration. Although perspiration is practically odorless, it can take on an unpleasant smell when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin. While attention to personal hygiene will minimize odiferous bacteria, the frequency, quantity and odor of each individual’s sweat varies.
A client who has recently been perspiring excessively is most prone to having body odor. While a client’s smell is typically beyond the practitioner’s control, here are several tips to reduce its impact:
· Include a clause in your office policies regarding hygiene. Considering the nature of your work, it is appropriate to request clients bathe prior to a session or refrain from coming directly from the gym. Some massage therapists even post tactful signs in the waiting room emphasizing personal hygiene.
· While body odor may be offensive to you, attempts to cover it up can be equally unpleasant for others. Many massage offices and healthcare practices include a request to refrain from using heavily scented body products or perfumes in their office policies in polite, yet visible signage.
· Using an aromatherapy diffuser, scent the air with an essential oil known for its disinfectant properties, such as grapefruit, lavender or lemon. Make certain that this aroma will not disturb your client.
· In warmer weather, be certain to maintain adequate cooling and circulation methods. Whether this means installing a ceiling fan, vents or even air conditioning, keeping the treatment room a comfortable temperature will minimize perspiration and encourage relaxation.
When these suggestions are not enough, a responsible healthcare practitioner must consider the possibility a medical condition is responsible for excessive body odor. Any imbalances in metabolism will result in stronger body odors. Clients with the following types of smells may indicate further health questioning and a possible medical referral:
· Fruity – A person with diabetes mellitus experiencing uncontrolled blood sugar can go into a metabolic crisis. Diabetic ketoacidosis may produce body and breath odor that is frequently described as fruity or sweet, but is more accurately a strange, ketone-like odor. If hyperglycemia is untreated, it can lead to an emergency situation. If other signs of ketoacidosis are present, get your client help immediately!
· Beer – Some people with systemic yeast conditions (Candida) have a beer smell. Excessive yeast turns sugar into alcohol in the body very quickly. If the client also experiences chronic vaginal discharge and itching, excessive fatigue, pervasive skin problems, thrush, nail infections or rashes, refer them to their primary healthcare provider for evaluation.
· Fishy – Trimethylaminuria or fish-odor syndrome, may affect as many as one percent of Americans. Causing an overall fishy body and breath odor, this genetic and incurable disorder is due to an inability to properly metabolize choline. Dietary changes to reduce foods high in choline are the best line of defense for these individuals.
· Athlete’s Foot – The unmistakable smell of Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that usually begins between the toes and causes itching, burning and cracking, can be treated with anti-fungal medications.
· Ammonia – Reminiscent of urine, people with a strong ammonia smell may be suffering from chronic kidney failure. Chronic kidney failure is a gradual and progressive loss of the ability of the kidneys to excrete wastes, concentrate urine and conserve electrolytes, resulting in the accumulation of fluid and waste products in the body. While a massage therapist is not qualified to make this kind of diagnosis, awareness of its possibility can prompt work on the kidney meridian to enhance the massage’s therapeutic value.
Although there is not much a practitioner can do about a client’s smell, being aware of what you can do and what to look out for will put your nose at ease. Sometimes our sense of smell can make being a bodyworker challenging, and sometimes it can be a lifesaver.
Recommended Study:
Aromatherapy Essentials
Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
References:
www.ghchealth.com, Body Odor, Leon Chaitow, ND, DO, MRO, Global Healing Center, 2006.
www.health911.com, Body Odor, Newberry Naturals, Inc., 2006.
www.mayoclinic.com, Sweating and Body Odor: Causes, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2006.
www.medscape.com, Consult Your Pharmacist - Afraid to Exhale? Help for Halitosis, W. Steven Pray, Ph.D., R.Ph., Jobson Publishing, 1999.
www.nlm.nih.gov, Chronic renal failure, National Institutes of Health, 2006.
Posted by Editors at 09:20 AM
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