68 | November 2011 | woman this month Showcase The physical therapy treatment and rehabilitation process at Bahrain Specialist Hospital includes heat, electrotherapy, gymnasium, acupuncture and hydrotherapy. BSH’s fully qualified team’s services also extend to include massage therapy and pilates. What many people don’t know is that massages are not only a spa indulgence, but for years have been a means to relieve pain. They are also used as a treatment for a number of disorders. At BSH, with oils like lemongrass and natural essences from flowers, massage therapists use a variety of gliding, kneading, cross-fiber friction and strokes to work the muscle tissue, releasing tension and thus improving circulation. The three most widely used therapeutic treatments are the Swedish massage — for relaxation and treatment of spastic muscles, the Shiatsu massage — to release tension in the body by reducing the tension in the muscle and Reflexology — for relieving the feet of pain. To make the process all the more revitalising, these sessions are held in the hospital’s physiotherapy department, in a separate room with a relaxing environment. These sessions last up to one hour, depending on the type of massage. The benefits of a good massage are endless, ranging from stimulating blood flow, relaxing nerves and muscles and, of course, the psychological benefits of feeling pampered. A professional massage can effectively resolve many things. Simple therapeutic sessions can help reduce aches and pains caused by a number of reasons, including headaches, migraines, asthma, poor circulation, stomach-ache and even arthritis. Greatly beneficial for people who have muscular pain to release spasms; massages are also highly recommended to those who work in an office environment. Being required to sit at a desk all day may result in back troubles and it can also cause stiffness in the neck and other joints. Make a move Among the other services and treatments offered at the hospital’s physiotherapy department is pilates. A system of physical and mental conditioning that can enhance your physical strength, flexibility and coordination, regular sessions of pilates can reduce stress, help you lose weight, improve mental focus and foster an improved sense of wellbeing. BSH offers mat work pilates, with the use of gym balls for beginners in a private gymnasium. Sessions accommodate individual classes or groups of three per class, lasting up to a maximum of one hour per session. Conducted in conjunction with a patient’s ongoing treatment and depending on their medical condition, pilates helps people with posture problems and can cure back and body pain. Call 17 812-000. Relaxing Remedy BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL The field of physiotherapy continues to grow with every year of research and development, bringing with it innovative solutions to the medical world.
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