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Aromatherapy treats sports injuries naturally

Posted by Reception On May - 13 - 2009

Aromatherapy treats Sports Injuries naturally by Jenny James of Chelsea Natural Health, Fulham Rd, SW10

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The definition of sports injuries is vast; ranging from simple sprains, strains, ligament damage and muscle tears to more serious traumas. Athletes at any level require specialist treatment dependent on the types of stresses they need to cope with. Aromatherapy can help!

Painkillers block the neural pathways so that the pain disappears, they don’t increase healing time by encouraging blood to the area or reduce inflammation by supporting the body’s natural healing ability. Aromatherapy does! Aromatherapy first aid for sprains and strains: RICE with a twist – rest, ice, compression, elevation: an ice pack is still an immediate priority but you could include a cold compress using analgesic and anti-inflammatory oils e.g. 1 drop Peppermint, 1 drop German Chamomile. Compress for 20 minutes. Strains can be treated with warmth after 12 hours. Fractures can be treated after the cast is removed, using topical circulatory stimulant essential oils to improve blood supply e.g. Rosemary or Ginger (analgesic, rubefacient) which has a reputation as a bone regenerator – resulting in improved healing time!

Sweet Marjoram/origanum marjorana:

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Analgesic, antispasmodic and very calming. It dilates capillaries in muscle tissue allowing blood to flow through so great for micro-traumas common with sporting injuries.

Most importantly of all aromatherapy can help prevent sport injuries, with muscle blends to help warm up the area beforehand and bath blends to use after. Alongside these, massage encourages blood flow to the area and prevents the build up of lactic acid and adhesions so performance will be improved!

Your treatment: the oils used in your treatment will take into account your case history and current needs. I will combine remedial massage and deep tissue or trigger point therapy/NMT with certain essential oils that work specifically to help your presenting symptoms. For instance, we can work with German chamomile (a powerful anti-inflammatory oil), Black Pepper (for its analgesic, antispasmodic and antiseptic properties) and Lavandin (which is a very stimulating oil and great for stimulating the circulation. It relaxes muscles and is indicated for cramps).

We can also discuss longer term strategies to prevent injury after your treatment; a home blend for use pre and post sports or a blend for use in the bath. And don’t forget that the healing effects of aromatherapy and massage are cumulative! Taking some time out for you regularly will leave you better equipped to manage the stresses and strains of your chosen sport.

Treatments: 45 min £45, 60 min £60, 90 min £90. For first appointments add 15mins for a free consultation.

Special offer: 6 Treatments for the price of 5. You will all know that one treatment is great for injury prevention and maintaining optimum health and fitness so imagine what a few would do!

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE on request

Jenny James

Aromatherapist BA (Hons) PGCE NYR MIFPA

Mobile: 07931 349 125

*Always consult a trained aromatherapist before applying home blended essential oils. Never apply essential oils neat.

**Jenny is a member of IFPA (International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists) and trained with Neal’s Yard Remedies in Holistic Aromatherapy & Essential Oil Science, Advanced Massage Techniques/Deep Tissue & Remedial Massage and Advanced Pregnancy Massage.

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