Reflex Therapy Research Articles

Transcendental Communication in MH Saifurrahmi's Nerve Reflex Therapy: An Epistemological Perspective of Irfani

Transcendental communication is a relatively new concept in the realm of communication studies. It refers to communication between a servant and God, characterized as transcendent or vertical. One instance of this is observed in the phenomenon of nerve reflex therapy by MH Saifurrahmi, where transcendental communication is utilized. Transcendental communication is also a recent development in the field of communication studies. This article examines the transcendental communication phenomenon present in MH Saifurrahmi's nerve reflex therapy in Mayang, Jambi City. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach, collecting data through observations, interviews, and documentation. The research findings reveal that in the nerve reflex therapy conducted by MH Saifurrahmi in Mayang, Jambi City, the phenomenon involves the use of "tawasul" (mediation) as a means of transcendental communication directed toward his mentors and elders, ultimately reaching out to Allah. Additionally, prayer gatherings ("sholat hajat") and supplications serve as measures for healing, advised by MH Saifurrahmi before administering nerve reflex therapy. The outcome of this mediation manifests as intuitive insights experienced by MH Saifurrahmi, enabling him to diagnose conditions and recommend herbal remedies tailored for treatment.

Treatment algorithm for chronic vertebrogenic back pain: the role of chondroprotectors

Back pain constitutes one of the major medico-social problems of healthcare. The development of a unified approach to the diagnosis and treatment of back pain is hindered since it is difficult to assess the various approaches to its treatment, especially its chronic forms. Yet recent data witnessing the important role of the neuroinflammatory process in the pathogenesis of the degenerative forms of discopathy suggest that the traditional treatment approach, which includes physical therapy exercises and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and myorelaxants, could be enhanced by using drugs characterized by slow structure-modifying action on the structure of the cartilaginous tissue of intervertebral discs and joints. Given the intelligent use of manual therapy, needle reflex therapy, kinesiotherapy, as well as modification of psychosocial factors that pre-determine the yellow flag phenomenon, the application of sustained-release symptomatic drugs increases the efficacy of therapy and prevents subsequent pain episodes. As of today, a placebo-controlled study has proven the action of Alflutop, which can be administered both intramuscularly and paravertebrally. This approach not only improves the patients’ condition but also reduces the burden associated with chronic back pain problems for the society.

Medical rehabilitation strategies in complex assistance of people with COVID-19. Literature review

Covid-19 infection is a challenge for the medical system. The development of programs and strategies for the rehabilitation of people in different stages of the disease is relevant and current. The study is a bibliographic synthesis that aimed to analyze the methods and strategies of medical rehabilitation of patients with the new “coronavirus infection”. Data were collected from the academic databases PubMed, PubMed Central, Google, collecting relevant articles from 2019-2021, using the keywords: [“Covid-19” or “Covid 19” or “2019- CoV” or “SARS- CoV” or“ new coronavirus” or “SARS-CoV-2”] and [“rehabilitation ”or“ physical medicine”]. Th e aim of the study was to estimate the consequences of COVID-19 and to identify methods of recovery treatment. Because Covid-19 severely affects the respiratory system, pulmonary rehabilitation interventions with respiratory techniques and postural drainage combined with other physiotherapeutic methods may be used for a patient with COVID-19. The wide range of clinical manifestations in COVID-19 reveals the importance of adapting the rehabilitation program to functional deficits and patient needs. Multifactorial programs combined with active and supportive methods (physical therapy, exercise, occupational therapy, reflex therapy) are effective and can be used in the complex care of patients with COVID-19 at all stages of treatment.

A new experimental method to verify psycho-physiological phenomena

The relaxation methods and in general the body expression techniques (massage, reflex therapy, shiatsu, gymnastics, stretching, yoga, meditation, autogenic training and more), have beneficial effects on the state of health. The measurement of some electrical properties of the skin is able to verify the effectiveness of the techniques indicated in the Anglo-Saxon literature with the generic term of Wellness. William A. Tiller, lecturer emeritus at Stanford University (CA), has created a circuit, referred to in the literature as the Tiller Relaxation Circuit, capable of inducing a state of well-being and relaxation in human subjects. It’s the first time that relaxation methods are tested with a device of advanced electronics able to quantify biophysical or psychological response in terms of the values of a function – the electro-cutaneous potential – directly measured on consenting subjects; and that the relationship between special aspects of the state of health and values of a function are obtained by means of a reproducible experiment in which is well known what we measure.

Reflex therapy in patients with chronic tension-type headaches: Effectiveness via sensory and affective Mcgill pain questionnaire descriptors

IntroductionTension-type headaches is the most common type of headache among adults and it rises a challenge in findig an effective and safe treatment method.ObjectivesThe study aims to evaluate the corporal acupuncture therapy efficacy in patients with chronic tension-type headaches undergoing a complex treatment plan.MethodsThe study involved 132 patients (74% female and 26% men) aged 18-65 years, who were divided into two groups. Patients reported their pain lasted 0.4-12 years. All the patients received conventional treatment (central muscle relaxants and antidepressants). The study group additionally received classical corporal acupuncture 3 times per week, a course of 12 sessions. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated by measuring pain intensity using a subjective visual analogue scale (VAS) and McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ).ResultsMost of the patients (79% and 88% of study and control groups respectively) demonstrated moderate cervical musculoskeletal dysfunctions. At admission pain intensity was 4.2±1.5 and 3.8±1.7 VAS points in the control and study groups respectively, MPQ sensory rank pain index (RPI) was 5.92±1.49 points, affective RPI 3.41±0.84, the total RPI – 7.12±2.56 in the control group, and 6.22±1.74; 2.98±0.62 and 7.14±1.65 points in the study group. 4 weeks after treatment measurements showed following pain intensity changes: 4.21±0.74 vs 3.1±0.95 points in the control and study groups respectively. 3- and 6-month period revealed 3.1±0.57, 2.4±0.74 points and 2.1±0.62, 1.1±0.49 points in the control and study groups respectively.ConclusionsClassical corporal acupuncture course may benefit chronic tension-type headaches patients providing an effective treatment in a safe way.DisclosureNo significant relationships.

The role of scientists of the Department of Psychiatry of the S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy in the development of domestic narcology and pharmacological methods of treating this pathology

The study covers the history of the formation and development of narcology in the Russian Empire and the USSR. The role of the heads and psychiatrists of the Department of Psychiatry and the Clinic of Mental and Nervous Diseases of the S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy in the fight against alcoholism in the country and the organization of drug treatment was identified. Particular emphasis was laid on the work of Vladimir Mikhailovich Bekhterev, a prominent Russian and Soviet psychiatrist, neuropathologist, physiologist and psychologist, the founder of reflexology and pathopsychological direction in Russia. It was V.M. Bekhterev who did everything to reverse public views on alcoholism and transfer it from the category of moral turpitude to the status of the disease; he organized the research and treatment for alcoholic patients. This paper considers the aspects of scientific development of issues related to narcology by the staff and heads of the department. The priority of domestic psychiatrists in the theoretical justification and practical application of conditioned reflex therapy for alcoholism has been shown.

Reflextherapy in Healthcare – Reflection on Audit Result and Employment of Therapy

An article was published in 20141 reporting on an audit of the Membership of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Reflextherapy (ACPIRT). This article reflects on the outcome of the audit in the context of a treatment tool in physiotherapy and allied health professions in the United Kingdom and abroad. Background: ACPIRT was established in 1992 by Christine Jones, physiotherapist, and associated colleagues to provide a clinical interest group for physiotherapists and allied health professionals practising reflextherapy (RT), a manual therapy applied to the feet (or hands) similar and akin to reflexology. The audit was carried out in 2009 to establish a professional profile of members and to document their clinical experiences in using RT in healthcare. Methodology: 161 ACPIRT members were sent a postal questionnaire (including a stamped return envelope) regarding their experience using RT treating patients in the NHS and/or in private practice. One hundred (62%) members responded. A pilot study was carried out prior to the main enquiry including 14 ACPIRT committee members. Their results were included in the final audit result. Aims: i) To describe members’ demographics, work environments and opinions of the value of RT in healthcare. ii) To describe the historical background and development of RT to become an accepted therapeutic intervention by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Results: Sixty-eight respondents (68%) considered RT ‘very good’, ‘good’ and ‘as good as’ orthodox physiotherapy. Fifty-eight respondents (58%) thought RT had a 25% placebo effect. No one considered RT to have a 100% placebo effect. Overwhelmingly, 95 respondents (95%) reported ‘relaxation’, ‘reduced stress’ and ‘reduced pain’ as main benefits of the treatment. A few respondents reported ‘increased fertility’, ‘improved bowel function’ and ‘reduced appetite’. Comments were made on the future of RT and recommendation for a Foundation Course. The results showed a mature, highly experienced professional membership with a female gender bias.

Combined reflex therapy

According to VM Bekhterev (Vesti. Sovr. Med., 1925, No. 11), this therapy, being close in nature to suggestion, differs from it in a more mechanized character that deprives the patient of the possibility of counter-suggestion.

English

BACKGROUND Most patients experience post–operative pain and it is unavoidable. It is the duty of the nurses to ensure that patients' pain is assessed and managed effectively when they are at the hospital. Foot reflex therapy is one effective way nurses can adopt to manage the patient with pain after surgery. We wanted to evaluate the effectiveness of foot reflex therapy on post-operative pain in patients who are subjected to major abdominal surgery. METHODS This is a descriptive randomized control study that was conducted at Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, among 360 patients who underwent major abdominal surgery. They were equally divided into two groups as control and study groups and the results were analyzed statistically. RESULTS Majority of the patients in the study group showed a positive effect on pain control during 4th and 5th [ (Mean: 1.27 with SD: 1.12) (Mean: 0.03with SD: 0.32) at p < 0.001] post-operative day following foot reflex therapy. CONCLUSIONS The existing pain and the post-operative pain can be managed by nurses, patients, their care takers or families together, whenever appropriate, in a multidisciplinary manner. Foot reflex therapy is one such alternative complementary therapy which the nurses can adopt to implement the techniques independently. KEY WORDS Foot Reflex Therapy, Foot Reflexology, Alternative Medicine, Complementary Therapy, Post-Operative Day (POD)

Comparative efficiency of various accupucture methods in early rehabilitation of patients after ischemic stroke

Three hundred and thirty patients aged 3579 years, who underwent early rehabilitation in the primary vascular department, participated in a randomized controlled trial. In 220 patients (the main group of the study), non-drug rehabilitation (in the form of a combination of physiotherapy and exercise therapy) was optimized using various reflex therapy methods. The effectiveness of including them in rehabilitation schemes was analyzed in seven subgroups. One hundred and ten patients (the comparison group) underwent comprehensive non-drug rehabilitation without the inclusion of reflex therapy. The effectiveness of rehabilitation measures was evaluated by assessing dynamics (on the first day and after two weeks) according to the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Barthel index, Beck questionnaires (level of depression), Spielberger-Hanin (level of reactive anxiety), and the Motivation for Success and Motivation for Fear of Failure (level of motivation) questionnaire tests. The best indicators on almost all scales were obtained in groups where patients underwent combined reflex therapy techniques: dynamic electroneurostimulation (DENS) in combination with classical acupuncture, su jok therapy in combination with classical, auricular acupuncture and craniopuncture, and prolonged craniopuncture in combination with corporal and auricular acupuncture. Indicators were slightly lower in the cases when separate methods were applied: DENS or su jok, and in subgroups where corporal and auricular acupuncture were combined with craniopuncture (according to the methodology of Professor Yu Zhi Shun, China), or craniopuncture according to classical methodology. The lowest indicators were in the group of patients who did not use methods of reflex therapy. This study confirmed the need to integrate acupuncture techniques in the schemes of early neurorehabilitation schemes of post-stroke patients for whom combined technologies are most effective.

Effect of Reflex Therapy on Stress and Blood Pressure among Older Adults with Hypertension

Aims: Reflex therapy relieves tension, relaxes the mind, improves the circulation of the body. In hypertension, vascular resistance increases the pressure of the blood vessels. The study was aimed to assess the pretest and post-test levels of stress and blood pressure (BP), evaluate the effectiveness of the reflex therapy among older adults with hypertension, and to associate the level of stress and BP with demographic variables.
 Study Design: Community-based randomized controlled trial was adopted.
 Place and Duration of Study: The urban area, Poonamallee, in Chennai, between October to December 2019.
 Methodology: Among 100 older adults, 50 participants were selected in each experimental and control group by using simple randomization. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and dual function BP monitor was used to assess the stress and BP respectively. Reflex therapy was provided for 6 weeks to the older adults with hypertension, who had low and moderate levels of stress in the experimental group. The different pressures such as 100%, 75%, and 50%, that was applied in the foot for 15 minutes weekly twice by reflexology stick, when the participants were in an empty stomach. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
 Results: The mean and standard deviation value of pretest and post-test stress level was 14.84±6.02, 9.4±4.73 in experimental group, 13.32±5.3 and 13.04±5.09 in control group respectively. This proves that reflex therapy was effective in reducing stress levels which was statistically significant (P=0.001). Mean and standard deviation of systolic BP in pretest and post-test was 142.74±5.98 and 137.78±5.69; 141.11±6.18 and 142.03±6.29, and diastolic BP was 98.21±3.28; 97.31±3.15 and 97.94±3.59; 98.96±3.34 in experimental and control group respectively indicated that the reflex therapy helps to reduce the level of BP (P=0.001).
 Conclusion: Reflex therapy is beneficial to older adults particularly with hypertension for relieving stress and reducing systolic and diastolic BP.

The origins of the eastern meridian system

There is no doubt that the mechanical effect on the so-called bioactive points and areas may be extremely useful and leads sometimes to a complete cure for various ailments. The existence and benefits of a reflex therapy are absolutely indisputable. Indeed, from ancient times to the present, the unique experience and empirical knowledge about the meridians connecting the points of influence and the skin with all body systems have been accumulated in the depths of Eastern medicine. Until now, the physical nature of the meridians is unknown and has not been explained by anyone, that’s why the reflex therapy stands apart from standard medicine and is practiced as a semi-legal occupation, despite its obvious benefits and effectiveness. In this paper, an attempt was made to reveal the physical nature of the meridians and, thereby, legalize this ancient and extremely necessary discipline. The authors propose a coherent hypothesis, the main idea of which is the statement that if there is even a slightest wound, the nervous system will immediately send the impulse to increase the blood supply to this spot, in other words, a special address appears, the fresh blood directs that way and causes the healing. The mechanism of redistribution of blood flow is that there is a certain low-frequency modulation of the heart rate, which leads to a local increase in blood flow, as impact zones are characterized by certain reductions in time with the modulations. The corresponding organ in the body also has a similar address (i.e. a certain frequency), and therefore an intensified blood flow rushes there too, providing a vital effect on this organ. As a result, the supported organ more effectively fights the disease. This, in short, is the mechanism of recovery that nature has in place in the presence of heart rhythm modulations that can be made manageable. Naturally, by saturating the blood with exposure agents, we will obtain an increase in their effectiveness due to local penetration directly into the painful area.

Pharmacopuncture in common pathological conditions*

Clinical recommendations have been developed based on the analysis of Russian and international experience in the use of pharmacopuncture which is a contemporary medical technology combining the therapeutic possibilities of reflex therapy and clinical pharmacology. The first part of the recommendations sets out general provisions on the document structure and content that meet the requirements of GOST R 56034-2014 Clinical recommendations (treatment protocols).
 
 * Pharmacopuncture in common pathological conditions: clinical recommendations. M., 2017 p. 39. Available at: https://docplayer.ru/53018894-Klinicheskie-rekomendacii-farmakopunktura-pri-rasprostranennyh-patologicheskih-sostoyaniyah.html. Link active on 06/15/2018.

Comparison of Physiotherapy Approaches in Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of rehabilitation approaches in individuals with low back pain (LBP) on pain, spinal mobility, disability, and muscular strength.MethodsNinety volunteers were included and divided into four groups depending on the rehabilitation approach: group 1, soft tissue mobilization techniques and stabilization exercises (n=24; 11 females [F], 13 males [M]); group 2, Kinesio Taping and stabilization exercises (n=24; 12F, 12M); group 3, stabilization exercises (n=22; 11F, 11M); and group 4, reflex therapy and stabilization exercises (n=20; 10F, 10M). Visual Analog Scale for pain intensity, an isokinetic evaluation for strength at 60°/s and a side-plank position test for trunk stabilization were measured before and assessed at the beginning, after a 4-week treatment and during 4 weeks of follow-up. The functional status was evaluated with the Oswestry Disability Index.ResultsIndividuals in all groups showed similar decrease in pain after the treatment and at 1-month follow-up, but there were no significant differences in pain levels between the groups (P<0.05).ConclusionAll therapeutic approaches were found to be effective in diminishing pain and thus helpful in increasing strength and stabilization in patients with LBP.

To the Problem of Neuro circulating Saevs

A simple way of reflex therapy in vegetative dystonia is described. It provides for the effect on the parasympathetic nerves of the brain stem through active points located on the skin of the face, a blunt dense object with a diameter of 1.0 - 1.5 mm. This eliminates skin injury in the con-tact area and makes it completely bloodless. It is devoid of all the negative properties inherent in drug therapy, does not require special technical equipment and other material costs, and can at any time be easily and effectively performed by the patient suffering from this disease. For all these reasons, it needs to be widely publicized among the population.

PROBLEM OF CHRONIC PAIN IN ONCOLOGY AND APPROACHES TO ITS RELIEF

This article reviews modern ideas about the pathogenesis of chronic pain in cancer patients and describes main approaches to its relief. Special attention is focused on factors important for the development of a patient-specific approach to the pathophysiology and management of chronic pain syndrome. These factors include genetics, gender, age, early anamnesis, patients’ immunological and endocrine status, as well as those shedding light on the pathogenetic aspects of chronic pain thus facilitating the choice of an optimal therapeutic approach. The review identifies limitations of pharmacotherapy as the major method of chronic pain management and justifies the need for alternative approaches. The latter include monitoring of the circadian rhythms of pain and various nonspecific effects, such as physical factors, psychological methods or reflex therapy. The experience and possibilities of non–pharmacological methods in the complex pathogenetic therapy of chronic pain are analysed, along with preventive measures permitting the development of chronic pain to be avoided. The pathological disorganizing and stressful role of chronic pain is considered with regard to the theory of functional systems. The pathogenetic significance of chronic pain in carcinogenesis and cancer progression is illustrated by examples from scientific literature. The authors emphasize the necessity of effective pain prevention, including invasive methods, in order to ensure an acceptable quality of life for cancer patients at any stage of the malignant process.

Enuresis: modern aspects of etiology, pathogenesis, psycho-, pharmaco-, physical therapy and phytotherapy (part 2)

In the second part of the review, the current state of the pharmacological, psycho-, physical therapy and phytotherapy of enuresis is analyzed in detail. An algorithm for the treatment of bedwetting, recommended by experts from the International Children's Continence Society, based primarily on behavioral therapy, alarm-therapy (“bedwetting alarm clock”), pharmacotherapy, is considered. Methods of psychotherapy are discussed in detail: behavioral therapy, in particular the token system, as well as the differentiated application of the method of suggestion (hypnotic, "maternal suggestion", the method of "hypnosis-repose", self-hypnosis). The using of play therapy, cognitive-behavioral, family-, art therapy, and a child variant of gestalt therapy in psychotherapy of neurotic disorders in case of enuresis is substantiated. The date showing the effectiveness of alarm therapy (a lower rate of subsequent relapses and a lower risk of side effects compared with the widespread treatment with desmopressin) are given. The main targets of pharmacotherapy and the corresponding drugs are analyzed in accordance with the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease. The use of psychostimulants, tricyclic antidepressants for normalization of the sleep depth, nootropic drugs (especially calcium hopantenate) in neurosis-like enuresis, and anxiolytics and sedatives in the relatively rare neurotic form is substantiated. New approaches to pharmacotherapy are discussed, including the use of uroselective antagonists of M3-cholinergic receptors (tolterodine, solifenacin), α1-adrenoblockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the off label format. A critical analysis of treatment with desmopressin is given. The features of differentiated physical therapy of enuresis (high frequency current, electrophoresis with antispasmodics, magnetic therapy, thermal procedures, electric sleep, reflex therapy, exercise therapy, biofeedback method) are considered. The analysis of traditional approaches to herbal medicine as an auxiliary method of enuresis treatment using neurotropic, anticholinergic, antispasmodic properties of plants is presented. Strategies for increasing compliance and creating a therapeutic alliance are discussed. The researches supporting the benefits of early treatment of bedwetting are analyzed.

Complex rehabilitation of a patient with marked motor and cognitive impairments after a brain injury

In the presented case report, the complex approach of rehabilitation in the remote period of traumatic brain injury (TBI) allowed the achievement of the significant clinical effect. The authors analyzed the experience of reflex therapy in the treatment of TBI. The effectiveness and potential of acupuncture, objectification of the results are topical issues that require further research.

Foot Reflex therapy and Energetic Chronotherapy Tools for Better Individual Healthcare and Welfare?

Foot Reflex therapy and Energetic Chronotherapy Tools for Better Individual Healthcare and Welfare?

Pathogenetic treatment of patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis and accompanying neurological pathology: our experience

A total of 127 patients (mean age 38.1 ± 7.8 years) with chronic bacterial prostatitis who had concomitant neurologic diseases were treated. The patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 (n = 47) included those with pain of the upper lumbar spine and myofascial syndrome; group 2 (n= 41), those with disorders of general and peripheral autonomic tone with vascular disorders in the pelvis; and group 3 (n = 39), those with disorders of the joints of the pelvic girdle, ligaments, and muscles of the pelvic floor. Treatment was given for the specific neurologic and hemodynamic disorders identified. No antibiotic therapy was prescribed. Patients in group 1 were prescribed pathogenetic therapy, including manual and regional therapy (for effects on the sclerotome and myotome), as well as medical correction of hemodynamics, physiothe rapy, psychotherapy, and hyperbaric oxygenation. Group 2 received treatment aimed at correcting autonomic innervation, including medications and magnetic therapy. Patients in group 3 were prescribed specific therapy aimed at eliminating pain-provoking factors, medications, massage, physiotherapy, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and reflex therapy. Treatment was associated with a decrease in the severity of pain and improvement of pelvic hemodynamics in patients in all 3 groups. Thus, the results indicate the potential efficacy of pathogenetic therapy for patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis with concomitant neurologic pathology.