Reflexology and Pain Management – Part 3

Previously I have explained what DOMS is, and why it plagues some people and not others and given you some ideas on how to prevent it.  Given DOMS can be so debilitating and demotivating I wanted to give you more tips on how to prevent DOMS. 1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids Omega 3 fatty acids, like those found in fish and flax oil, are a fantastic addition to your recovery arsenal. Your body can’t make them, so you have to eat them, they are found primarily in fish and wild game, and to a lesser degree in certain nuts and seeds.  They are powerfully anti-inflammatory and pro-recovery, and are protective to connective tissue, nerve tissue, and muscle tissue. 2. Protease Enzymes A study by Innerfield in 1957 showed that protease enzyme supplementation may have anti-inflammatory effects, and others have shown them to be specifically effective at reducing DOMS.  Protease enzymes include trypsin, bromelain, chymotrypsin and papain, and they help modulate the pro-inflammatory response by blocking pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and stimulating anti inflammatory processes.  If you go this route, make sure you get a formula that includes that piperine. This is an ingredient extracted from pepper that increases enzyme absorption by up to 60%.  You need this boost because enzymes don’t absorb that well in the gut. 3. Compression Tights Research found that marathoners who wore compression gear in the 24 hours after a race reported less soreness. The technical fabric supports muscle groups, reducing movement, which can result in less soft tissue damage. Compression can also boost circulation. However, to ensure the right level of compression, you’ll have to work out the size you need using your height and weight. 4. Foam Roller Most people are familiar with foam rollers and know that using it on sore muscles can alleivate the pain.  Remember using a foam roller may be painful and shouldn't be unbearable.  Personally I prefer receiving massage to foam rolling my own sore muscles.   Both sports and deep tissue massage can help alleviate DOMS too. References

Pain is a fact of life, it is a necessary part of being human.  Pain is a universal experience that serves the vital function of triggering avoidance. Pain is not a simple sensory experience, it can occur even in the absence of tissue damage. It involves emotional, social and cognitive beliefs. The four pillars of pain include

1. Peripheral nervous system or the movement system
2. Autonomic system, composing the sympathetic, parasympathetic, hormonal and visceral systems
3. Central nervous system
4. Psycho-emotional aspects, such as stress, anxiety, fear, social life and memory of pain.

Way back when I first started at Barclays, one of the first clients I treated was returning to work after being signed off with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  Which is a common and painful disorder of the wrist, caused by pressure on the median nerve which creates numbness and tingling in the fingers.  At its worse it can lead to loss of grip and permanent numbness in the fingers. Repetitive computer use thought to be one of the causes, but scientific studies have shown contradictory results.   A recent review of the scientific evidence found that frequent computer or mouse use can nearly double the risk of developing the condition.  Repeated tapping, scrolling and swiping on your smartphone or tablet can also lead ot carpal tunnel problems.  If these sort of repeated movements are the cause then improving your posture will help.  But it is also worth ruling out other possible causes such as:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Thyriod Disease