Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Let remedial therapies help you!
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IBS is a real pain in the backside…literally! It is thought that around 10% of the UK population suffer from various symptoms of this functional disorder from bloating and cramps to diarrhoea and constipation. Annoyingly, there is no specific test to diagnose IBS (instead, it tends to be diagnosed via ruling out various other disorders), however, many sufferers have reported that their symptoms have been reduced significantly by changing their lifestyle. One sector that is seeing an increase in people seeking relief is remedial therapies. Here are some that could help you beat the bloat and feel better in 2018.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an Ancient Chinese treatment whereby tiny needles are inserted into parts of the body to provide relief from pain or discomfort. Some studies have said that it can help with the symptoms of IBS, in particular, bloating. For this reason, it has positioned itself as a popular alternative method to treating symptoms of IBS.
Probiotics and diet
Probiotics, simply stated, regulate the bacteria in your gut, which can substantially alleviate IBS symptoms, such as constipation. You can get probiotic supplements in all good health shops. Certain foods can aggravate the symptoms. Some people have found a huge difference after changing to a plant based diet, (always consult your doctor).
Massage and meditation
We promise we’re not just trying to give you an excuse to book yourself in for a relaxing spa treatment – yes, massage can really work to reduce symptoms of IBS. If you are suffering from IBS, stress and upset can really trigger those symptoms and make you feel a whole lot worse. Science has proven that there are a lot of neural connections between your gut and your brain, so relaxing your mind as well as your body can truly help alleviate symptoms. Taking the time to do things that allow you to unwind, such as a nice relaxing massage could make you feel a whole lot better. If you don’t have the time or money for a massage, try doing some at-home mindfulness. Lie down, concentrate on your breathing and relax for 15 minutes a day. If you’re struggling, there are a lot of apps that could help you.
For therapists in any of these areas check out our directory