Sport & Fitness

Acupuncture
Alexander Technique
Aromatherapy
Homeopathy
Hypnotherapy
Indian head massage
Osteopathy
Reflexology
Reiki
Shiatsu

Hypnotherapy
What is it? TV shows featuring hypnotherapy have spawned a great many misconceptions. However, the benefits of a trance-like, ‘supernatural’ state have been appreciated since primitive times. During World War II it was recognised as a dynamic psychiatric tool to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, and in 1955 it was endorsed by the BMA as a viable form of therapy. It’s particularly helpful for a wide range of psychological and emotional problems, such as addiction, stress, anxiety, panic attacks and phobias, along with the physical symptoms that often accompany them, like IBS and skin disorders. It’s popular partly for the ‘short-cut’ nature of the treatments: either in short bursts or even just a one-off session. Its effectiveness is believed to be down to the state of deep relaxation brought about by hypnosis: your brain is more susceptible to suggestion, which in turn provokes change. Forget TV and uninhibited, out-of-control people impersonating chickens – in fact, you are always in control and can bring yourself out of hypnosis at any time. When looking for a therapist, try to find someone who is trained in psychotherapy as well. Feature continues

Is it safe? Although anyone can set themselves up as a hypnotherapist with no training, the profession is coming under greater regulation through the General Hypnotherapy Register (which has a searchable database of members). Nevertheless, it’s still vital to check that a practitioner is insured, and to ask how long they have been practising and whether they are linked to a clinic or practice.

Does it work? The House of Lords study placed hypnotherapy in Group 2 to reflect the lack of scientific evidence of its effectiveness. However, there are abundant anecdotal accounts of its impact on addictions, anxiety, phobias and panic attacks.

General Hypnotherapy Register (01590 683770/ www.general-hypnotherapy-register.com)

Indian head massage
What is it? In India, it is unusual to go for a trim at the hairdresser and not have a head massage. Indeed, the Hindi word for head massage is ‘champi’ – from which we get the word ‘shampoo’. Like body massage, the Indian head variety manipulates soft tissues but concentrates on the scalp and shoulders.

Some practitioners extend the movements down the arms and on to the back. It’s great for muscular and nervous tension, increasing joint flexibility in the neck and shoulders, as well as helping lymphatic fluid to circulate. Because it focuses on the head, it can also help with tinnitus, other sinus and ear problems and even mental tiredness. The International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) website has a thorough list of practitioners.

Is it safe? Unless a practitioner inadvertently jabs a finger in your eye, Indian Head Massage is wonderfully invigorating to receive. However, it should be avoided if you have a head or neck injury or a history of thrombosis or embolism. Most practitioners will be ITEC-qualified and insured.

Does it work? Indian Head Massage was placed in Group 2 by the 2000 House of Lords study, along with other massage and bodywork techniques, since the main evidence for its effectiveness is anecdotal.

ITEC (020 8994 4141/ www.embodyforyou.com).
London Centre of Indian Champissage (020 7609 3590/ www.indianchampissage.com).

Osteopathy
What is it? In the mid-nineteenth century, an American doctor, Andrew Taylor Still, noted that much of the pain we suffer stems from abnormalities in the function of the body structure. Osteopathy grew from the discovery that when these tensions are released, so are the symptoms of the disorder.

Osteopathy is best known for treating back pain, but it can also help with postural issues, RSI, arthritis and sports injuries. Techniques used include massage, stretching, traction and manipulation – producing the characteristic ‘click’. For anyone worried about the possible effects of overenthusiastic manipulation, be assured that students have to demonstrate absolute competence in this skill. Osteopaths also use a highly developed form of touch called ‘palpation’ to identify strains or weaknesses in the body. Additional evidence, possibly including X-rays and blood tests, may be gathered before deciding on a diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Is it safe? All osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council – which, in 2000, helped them become the first complementary practitioners to be regulated by government statute in the same way as GPs. Look for a DO (Diploma in Osteopathy) after a therapist’s name, in addition to a BSc degree. An increasing number of osteopaths now work with GPs, making it possible to get a referral on the NHS. The GOsC website has a directory of practitioners.

Does it work? The Select Committee study placed osteopathy in Group 1, a clear endorsement of its healing potential.

General Osteopathic Council (020 7357 6655/ www.osteopathy.org.uk).