1/2. The physiological basis of reflexology and its use as a potential diagnostic tool.Ill-health changes the anatomy and physiology of affected organs, some of which can be observed visually, elicited through physical examination or confirmed through biomedical analysis. Understanding how anatomical changes contribute to physiological signs and symptoms will help practitioners identify the pathology, appreciate its origin and development and justify prescribed interventions in a way which can be upheld by critical external scrutiny. Reflexology contributes to an holistic approach to care and has recently improved its credibility as a discipline which supports orthodox care. Several research publications have identified possible theories and principles for the mechanism of action of reflexology, but more research to explain its contribution in identifying ill-health and diseases, as well as appropriate treatment modalities, is needed. This paper explores the physiological basis of reflexology, some of the theories for the mechanism of action and its potential as a diagnostic tool.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = physical (Clic here for more details about this article) |
2/2. hyperemesis gravidarum: a biopsychosocial perspective.The literature on the psychological, social and biological factors in the etiology of hyperemesis gravidarum is reviewed. Four cases seen in the last year in psychiatric consultation in a general hospital are then presented to illustrate and highlight the biopsychosocial factors in the literature that seemed most relevant to diagnosis and treatment. Emphasis is placed on the concept of hyperemesis gravidarum as a special type of somatization (an illness behavior in which dysphoric affect is expressed with physical symptoms), whereby physical symptoms are expressed to elicit care by physicians and family and to gain a "time out" from stressful home environments.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 2keywords = physical (Clic here for more details about this article) |