Reflexology for Lupus
Whilst reflexology does not claim to diagnose, treat or cure a disorder,
it is thought that some disorders, such as these, have been shown
(through mainly anecdotal evidence due to limited investment in
scientific research) to respond well to reflexology.
Disorders of the immune / lymphatic system result in increased susceptibility to virtually every type of illness including Lupus.
Immune / Lymphatic System
The immune system is the body's defence against germs, viruses and
other invaders. The thymus gland, spleen, tonsils, adenoids and
lymph nodes, along with a variety of white blood cells, all protect
the body. The lymphatic system is a network of capillaries, vessels,
trunks and ducts and plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response.
Therapeutic effects of reflexology on the immune / lymphatic system
• Working over the entire foot towards concentration of lymph node
reflexes, following the flow back to the venous system, is like
having a lymphatic drainage massage.
• reflexology helps maintain homeostasis of blood flow and fluid
balance with constant beneficial effects for the free flow of lymph.
• reflexology helps deepen the breathing making the respiratory
pump more effective in helping the flow of lymph.
• reflexology helps peristalsis, which in turn will also help lymph
flow.
• Break down of deposits in the feet and the stimulation of reflexology
decongests energy pathways allowing the immune / lymphatic system
to work optimally (as it does for all systems).
• Stimulating the action of the muscles will assist the skeletal
muscle pump and so benefit the circulatory system as well as the
immune / lymphatic system.
What is Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the body's tissues. It is an autoimmune condition, which means that it is caused by a fault in the immune system. In people with Lupus, the immune system attacks the body's healthy cells and tissue instead of protecting the body from illness and infection.
The symptoms of lupus can vary from person to person. Some people only experience a mild form of the condition, whereas others are more severely affected and may develop serious complications (see "complications").
Lupus can be categorised into two main types, which are outlined below.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is by far the most common form
of the condition, and it is what most people mean when they use
the term "lupus". This article focuses on SLE.
Discoid lupus erythematosus only affects the skin, while systemic
lupus affects the whole body.
SLE primarily causes joint pain, fatigue and skin rashes, as the immune system attacks the body's tissue and cells.
How common is lupus?
In the UK, approximately three in 10,000 people have SLE. The condition is nine times more common in women than in men, although the exact reason for this is unknown. SLE is also more common in Afro-Caribbean, Asian and Chinese people.
Lupus normally develops between 15 and 40 years of age. The condition is rare in children, although it has occurred in children as young as two years of age.
There is currently no cure for lupus, but there are treatments that can help to ease and manage symptoms.