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OSTEOPATHY

The philosophy of Osteopathy is the underlying basis when an Osteopath treats a patient.

The human body operates in much the same way as a machine, with all parts interrelated, and with structure being closely related to function. Further to this and extending the machine analogy further, damage to one part can have adverse effects on other systems or organs.

Underlying this theory is our belief that the human body has all of the necessary elements to attain, and maintain, optimal health, and an in-built repair system that enables us to recover from injury and disease.

As with any system in the body, this in-built repair system functions best when the machine is functionally sound. By using clinically developed techniques, that promote sufficient blood flow, osteopaths help maintain optimal function of the internal organs, which in turn promotes and maintains the body’s balanced production of natural chemicals.

The principal technique that we employ is ‘Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy’ or OMT for short.

Examples of OMT are:

Soft Tissue Massage

Muscle Stretching

Passive Range of Motion

Gentle Joint Manipulation

Specially developed ‘slow release techniques’ are commonly used in the elderly and the very young, to ensure that the treatment is both safe and comfortable.

As part of the holistic, or ‘whole person’, approach to optimal health, osteopaths also consider the roles of appropriate exercise programs, a healthy diet and nutrition, and emotional well being (through techniques such as stress reduction exercises and strategies) as important factors in your treatment.

In a nutshell, the aim of osteopathy is to restore the individual’s natural abilities to heal, by using a combination of biomechanics, lifestyle improvements, and healthy nutrition.

In Australia, Osteopathy has been practiced since 1909 and, as well as the United States, is widely practiced throughout the United Kingdom, Europe and New Zealand.

NUTRITIONAL and ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE

What is Nutritional and Environmental Medicine?

Nutritional Medicine

Nutrients are the building blocks of human physiology and play a key role in a person's health and wellbeing. Current medical literature increasingly bears out the fundamental role of nutrition in health-optimisation and the prevention and treatment of many common conditions.

“Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.”
--Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.)

Although as quoted above it can be seen that maybe current knowledge is finally catching up with ancient wisdom!

Environmental Medicine

This area addresses the body's:

External environment - allergies, sensitivities, toxicities and level of ability to detoxify

Internal environment - the GI tract - gut flora, integrity of intestinal wall, nutrient absorption and the immune system

Environmental Medicine is concerned with those physical and psychological symptoms that result from allergy or sensitivity to various inhalants, foods, beverages and numerous chemical substances in air, water and food. The central nervous system, with its rich blood supply, is particularly susceptible to the effects of allergens and toxins. Consequently, individuals exhibiting physical or mental illness are suspected of having a sensitivity to some environmental factor that is upsetting the balance of nutrients within the body.

Environmental toxins are eliminated as far as possible. For optimum results, a regular program of physical exercise and relaxation is advised. Stresses of emotional, psychological and social origin must also be dealt with, as part of a total treatment program.

Nutritional and Environmental Medicine

is defined as the study of the interactions of both nutritional and environmental factors with human physiology, biochemistry, pathology and anatomy and the clinical application of these interactions in the optimisation of health and the prevention and treatment of disease. This may involve the removal of certain foods or chemicals from the patient's environment, the use of rotation diets and the provision of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and essential fatty acids,herbs or other nutritional supplements. Excesses or deficiencies of any nutrient or the presence of basic chemicals or electromagnetic radiation results in cellular dysfunction and illness. The underlying philosophy is closely aligned with Naturopathic principles and is a form of drug free Natural Medicine.

Pathology Tests

Some metabolic tests are available which may indicate imbalances within the body. These include: hair analysis, which gives an assessment of minerals and heavy metals; the prolonged glucose tolerance test, which analyses blood sugar levels; urine samples and various blood tests designed to evaluate vitamin, mineral or hormonal excesses or deficiencies. Lipid Peroxidation and antioxidant status are rapidly becoming important clinical investigations.

Perhaps one of the most important tests recommended is the IgG Food Sensitivity Test.

This test tells you what foods you should eat and those you should avoid for optimum health.

An IgG Food Sensitivity Test is a blood test that measures your immune response to different types of food.( usually 93 foods are tested )

It should be a routine test in medicine much like an FBE(Full blood examination) or a Biochemistry Panel.

Food sensitivities can make you chronically ill without you being aware for many years - even a lifetime.

They can be strongly associated with chronic illnesses such as:

Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
Chrohns Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Bloating,Constipation and Diarrhea
Weight problems
Dyspepsia,Heartburn and other Digestive issues
Anxiety and Depression
Migraines
Eczema
Asthma
Neurological and Behavioural problems in Children
Colic and Skin conditions and Failure to Thrive in Babies

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at prescribing a varied diet with good nutritional value, while at the same time eliminating any problem foods from the diet.

We then focus on correcting any underlying nutritional imbalances and its cause, as well as providing symptomatic relief from the illness.

Proper balance is achieved by providing the molecular environment that allows the body to heal itself. As stated above this is done by attention to basic nutrition that is individualised for the patient, providing those nutrients that are found lacking or reducing those found in excess. Macronutrients such as Protein or Amino acids, Fatty acids etc and micronutrients such as Vitamin and Mineral supplements are added where diet cannot satisfy the individual need for nutrients. Herbs,Plant ( phyto) nutrients and other nutritional supplements are also utilised where appropriate.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Chinese Medicine is a balanced and holistic approach to healing which incorporates a variety of different treatments and processes to achieve complete wellness. Chinese medicine believes that a return to optimal health can be attained by tackling the root or cause of the problem not just the symptoms, and also by addressing illnesses as soon as possible after they arise.

What to expect from a Chinese Medicine appointment...

A detailed consultation addressing not only the chief complaint, but also inquiries about your general health and emotional well being may be asked. These may include questions about any previous illnesses, immunity and energy levels, digestion, menstruation, family history and more depending on your individual case. Each consultation will also include tongue and pulse diagnosis.

Acupuncture is a gentle manipulation of energy channels, also called meridians wherein flow your body’s life force or Qi. When there is disease there may be blockages and stagnation of Qi flow, there may not be enough Qi or the Qi may simply be flowing in the wrong direction. By the insertion of very fine sterile needles into specific points along the channel the Qi flow can be corrected and the pain or disease eliminated or reduced.

Moxabustion is the application of heat to facilitate in the warming of the Qi flow in the meridians and to expel the accumulation of cold, which often causes pain and discomfort. This is done by burning a specific herb which the Chinese call Aiye to harness the heat and warm the meridians which flow all throughout your body.

Cupping is used to release muscle tension and stiffness by drawing fresh blood to areas which have been previously starved of nutrients due to continual muscular and vascular contraction. Round glass cups are quickly heated and then applied to the affected area which draws up the skin to create a suction cup like effect which is very relaxing as it releases the muscular tension.

Tuina (Chinese Massage) is an invigorating hands on body treatment which moves the energy in the meridians. It treats both acute and chronic disease which may be of a muscular or non-muscular nature. Techniques such as rolling, pressing and kneading are used to stimulate acupressure points, improve Qi flow and bring the body to balance.

Chinese Herbal Medicine will often be prescribed to the patient to complement the effects of the acupuncture and/or manual treatments which are given during your session. This will lengthen the effects of the treatment and facilitate a much faster recovery time. They function harmoniously with the body to restore the correct flow of Qi, blood and other nutrients, as well as work to expel toxins and pathogens which cause disease. They are very safe and easy to take with minimal to no side effects. The herbs are usually in the form of a powder which is mixed in a small amount of water to create a drinkable solution or in the form of ready-made pills.

Diet and life style suggestions also complete the session by addressing ways to prevent reoccurrence of the disease and to improve general quality of life.

Chinese Medicine has been practiced for over 5000 years and over the time it has adapted and changed for our ever changing lifestyles. Just as no two bodies are the same, no two treatments will be the same; Chinese Medicine tailors its treatment to the individual, therefore harnessing great results and a positive step forward to healthy wellbeing.

THERAPEUTIC / REMEDIAL MASSAGE

Therapeutic / Remedial massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation with physical, functional, and in some cases psychological purposes and goals.

Massage involves acting on and manipulating the client's body with pressure, tension, motion, or vibration. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels, and/or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage is applied with the hands, fingers, elbows and forearms.

How massage can help you

· Regular massage for cumulative therapeutic benefits.

· Occasional massage as a temporary relief from pain and/or stress.

· Regular massage as part of a management plan for ongoing conditions such as arthritis, diabetics, high blood pressure, asthma etc.

· Palliative care to soothe, relieve and provide comfort or reduce the intensity of uncomfortable symptoms such as when conditions are degenerative.

· Infant massage to encourage growth, increase circulation, aid digestion, increase attentiveness, improve immune function and much more.

Some of the benefits of Massage

· Alleviates pain

· Reduces stress

· Facilitates growth

· Increases attentiveness and learning

· Reduces stereotypical and off-task behaviour in autistic individuals

· Improves immune function, massage increases the number of natural killer cells

· Promotes healing of psychiatric problems

· Assists in overcoming addictions such as cigarette smoking

· Supports effective digestion and breathing through stimulation of the vagus nerve

· Diminishes premenstrual symptoms

· Encourages dietary compliance in diabetics, leading to more normal glucose levels

· Lowers blood pressure, anxiety, and hostility levels in individuals with hypertension

· Reduces pain and increases range of motion in individuals with on going pain

· Improves all clinical measures in paediatric eczema

THE LIFELINE TECHNIQUE & SPIRITUAL COUNSELLING

Is your body or your life speaking to you through physical illness, stress, fear, addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or patterns and problems that at times overwhelm you or stop you, from being who you want to be or doing what you love doing ?

Every symptom or stress is offering you the opportunity to explore, uncover and release emotions that are buried in your subconscious mind. You do not have to disclose your experiences, enabling you to heal without reliving emotional or physical shock or trauma.

Muscle reflex testing is used to allow us to dialogue with your subconscious mind, guiding us to understand why and how your symptoms have manifested.

One on sessions, support you, as you, experience change, heal and reconnect with your passion for life. We monitor and improve on the five basics for optimum health – water, food, rest, exercise and present time consciousness.

Dr Darren Weissman, Holistic Physician and Developer of The Lifeline Technique, Author and Educator, consolidated the following healing modalities and into one powerful technique that is practiced in 10 different countries.

· Applied Kinesiology – Muscle testing is used as a diagnostic tool to identify root causes of the symptoms that you are experiencing.

· Neuro-Linguistic Programming – NLP a system of creating success, health and well-being through changing your thoughts, behaviours and belief systems.

· Neuro Emotional Technique – NET helps you to identify and resolve events (actual or perceived) that are affecting your ability to have optimal health and well-being in mind and body.

· Psychoneuroimmunology – Scientific and medical disciplines, including psychology, neurosciences, immunology, physiology, pharmacology, psychiatry, behavioural medicine, infectious diseases, endocrinology and rheumatology, focusing on interactions between the nervous and immune systems and the relationship between behaviour and health.

· Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – An integrative health approach combining psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, interpersonal, experiential and body-centred therapies to help you heal from shock, trauma or loss.

· Total Body Modification – TBM a system of natural health that uses muscle testing and reflex points to eliminate roadblocks to health and unlock your body’s natural ability to heal.

· 5 Element Based Acupuncture – Five elements Earth Water Metal Wood Fire represent the natural flow of energy that occurs both in the meridians in the body and in nature.

· Chiropractic – Non invasive treatment of the musculoskeletal system and nervous system that focuses on alignment in body, mind and lifestyle for overall wellness.

· Colour Therapy – Each colour has a vibration and frequency of energy that can dramatically affect your health, inner harmony and emotions.

· Chakras – Energy centres in your body that have relationships with acupuncture meridians, physiological functions and certain beliefs.

· Shamanism – Utilising ancient healing traditions and practices to strengthen and unify your life.

You are welcome to contact Cathryn or Tony for additional information or see Web Site http://cherishhealing.com.au/

SHIATSU

Shiatsu is a form of bodywork based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and is designed to promote and maintain the body’s natural balance. During shiatsu, pressure is applied to points and energy pathways using fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows or feet. The purpose is to improve circulation and to support the body’s natural energy flow. Gentle stretches and limb rotations are used to help free joints and release muscle tension. Other techniques, such as cupping, may also be used to assist in releasing or nourishing areas of the body.

Shiatsu can help with:

· Stress, anxiety, depression and fatigue

· Back, neck and shoulder pain

· Headaches and migraine

· Joint pain and reduced mobility

· Digestive and respiratory problems

· Menstrual problems and PMT

REIKI

Reikiis a hands-on healing technique which, like shiatsu, originates in Japan. It promotes relaxation and wellbeing, and enhances the body’s natural healing ability.

Shiatsu and Reiki can be blended together to create a unique treatment for each client or they can be given as treatments in their own right.

Shiatsu and Reiki treatments are given on a purpose-built shiatsu table with the client wearing loose, comfortable clothing.

Health fund rebates are available.

Gift vouchers are also available.

HYPNOTHERAPY

Clinical Hypnosis is a natural relaxation focused state experienced as feelings of wellbeing. Hypnosis is natural and safe it is a state of mind between waking and sleeping, where a person is conscious, aware of physical sensations and surrounds and yet much more receptive to theraputive suggestions

Hypnotherapy can help with:-

By simply learning relaxation and breathing techniques, you will reduce your anxieties and fear, enabling you to tap into the wonderful inner resources and abilities we all naturally possess. These valuable tools assist with pregnancy, child-birthing and the rest of your life.

Benefits of Calmbirth® and Hypnobirthing

Eliminate the fear and tension using relaxation.
Use deep relaxation between uterine surges.
Give birth with ease and comfort as your body is naturally designed to do.
Your body is designed to naturally give birth with ease and comfort.
Create your body’s own natural anaesthesia.
Bond with your baby during pregnancy and afterwards.
Create a calm serene, joyful experience with you and your partner.
Gently breathe your baby into the world without the violence of hard pushing.

KINESIOLOGY

Kinesiology is a natural therapy – often categorised as mind/body medicine, which serves to create optimal conditions for healing within the body.

Kinesiology can benefit:

•Aches, pains

•Gynaecological disorders

•Increased energy and vitality

•Healing from Injuries and surgery

•Improved motivation, memory, learning and concentration.

•Irritable bowel syndrome

•Children’s behavioral and learning problems

•Inflammatory conditions

•Autoimmune disorders

•Migraine

•Depression and mood swings

•Skin conditions

•Nutritional and diet issues

•Many more health challenges

Kinesiology uses muscle feedback techniques to identify imbalances in the body’s physical, emotional, mental and energetic systems. Gentle but powerful correction techniques are used in the session to restore the energetic balance to the body.

Some Correction techniques used in a Kinesiology session can include:

•Emotional Stress Release technique

•Acupressure

•Neuro-Vascular and Neuro-Lympatic reflex points

•Flower essence and homeopathic remedies

•Aromatherapy

•Colour therapy

•Nutritional support

•Affirmation therapy

Muscle Response Testing (MRT) for Food Intolerances

Muscle Response Testing (MRT) as a convenient, pain free and cost effective way to identify the foods a person may be intolerant to. Food intolerances can contribute to many chronic health conditions but are often difficult to identify. MRT for food intolerances can quickly identify foods that may be affecting optimal health. A qualified Kinesiologist performs this test by manually assessing a person’s muscle response to individual test-vials of homeopathic food substances or foods that have been brought into the clinic session. By temporarily removing foods from the diet that have been indicated through MRT, chronic health symptoms can often improve significantly.

KINESIOLOGIST

Jamie Ferris-May

Dip, Holistic Kinesiology

Accredited Member of the

Australian Traditional-Medicine Society.

Associate member of the

Australian Kinesiology Association

Kinesiology is a natural therapy – often categorised as mind/body medicine, which serves to create optimal conditions for healing within the body.

Kinesiology ‘Tune Up’ or

‘Introductory Session’ – ½ hour $50.00

Kinesiology Session – 1 hour $85.00

Food Intolerance

Muscle Response Testing

(50 common foods) – 1 hour $85.00

Kinesiology Session – 1 ½ hour$115.00

REFLEXOLOGY

Within the feet there are reflex points which relate to every organ, gland and part of the body. By correctly stimulating these points, using specific hand and finger techniques, many health problems can be helped in a safe and natural way.

Reflexology is used primarily for relieving stress and tension. It also improves nerve and blood supply and helps restore the body to its natural state of equilibrium. As a result, many people find relief from lower back pain, sciatica, bursitis, insomnia, asthma, arthritis and dozens of other body ailments.

According to one theory, Reflexology is said to break down and disperse crystalline deposits in the feet, which cause congestion in the nerve and blood supply. Wherever a build-up of deposits of calcium or lymph fluid is found in the feet, it is a sign that stress and its effects have begun to accumulate in the corresponding parts of the body.

In energy terms, Reflexology restores the energy needed for the body to find its own equilibrium. Balance and order must be created before a state of health is achieved. Stimulation of the tender reflex areas triggers a subtle energy flow, which brings that remarkable return of vitality to the recipient, sometimes during the actual treatment. It is medically accepted that 75% of all disease is stress-related. Relaxation is the first step towards normalisation, where blood supply can flow unimpeded and nutrients and oxygen can be supplied to the cells.

If Reflexology does nothing more than assist relaxation, it must be well on the way to alleviating much sickness and suffering, since stress and disease are on-going facts of life for most of us.

Reflexology, in addition to its therapeutic uses, can serve as a preventative program. It enables each individual, on a daily basis, to help his or her body restore and maintain its natural state of balance.

In true Reflexology, only the hands are used to administer the treatment - without any gadgets or mechanical devices - and a complete treatment usually takes an hour.

Reflexologists do not advocate replacing conventional medicine. Reflexology can be given in conjunction with whatever other medical treatments the person may choose.

Care in health and sickness is becoming more and more the responsibility of the individual and Reflexology is one of the best and most effective ways of helping people to help themselves.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Medicare
You can now be eligible to receive up to 5 (five) Osteopathic treatments per year through Medicare. You must first be referred by your GP. Call us for more details.
HICAPS
We have a HICAPS Terminal at this Practice so don't forget to bring you private health fund card with you, on the date of your appointment, for your fast on the spot health fund refund.
(Check with your private health fund if they participate.)
Eftpos, Visa, & Mastercard
Work Cover
Remember to get a Doctors referral to this clinic prior to your initial treatment.
Veteran Affairs
Remember to get a Doctors referral to this clinic priorto your initial treatment.