Feet-fix may help your whole body

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 638, 28 May 1996, Page 9

Feet-fix may help your whole body

In the follow1ng article, Karen Hughes, RN, ND, explains the new practice of 'foot joint mobilisation' (FJM): Foot joint mobilisation is a fairly recent practice and over the last two decades has been having some remarkable results. It is a completely safe procedure in the hands of an experienced and trained practitioner. When standing, our body is reliant on our feet for balance and stability. If any one of the 28 bones in the foot are incorrectly aligned (or subluxated) the whole body can become affected. The knee can rotate inwards affecting the hip, which in turn affects the back, groin and stomach muscles. This abnormal stress can reach up to the neck and shoulders as the body attempts to compensate for the incorrect alignment or placement of the foot bones. If you have ever suffered from sore or aching feet; sore or swollen ankles; abnormally high arches; bunions; knee pain; calluses; recurrent corns; hip pain; shoulder or neck pain; back pain, then perhaps you should consider foot joint mobilisation, as these disorders can be improved or permanently relived. Many people suffer problems to some degree or other with their feet, and some of the abovC-mentioned symptoms may be evident, particularly those of unexplained hip, knee, shoulder or neck pain. The more direct symptoms of incorrectly aligned feet are corns, calluses, bunions, and pain or swelling around the ankles. Following an initial assessment, FJM sessions are required three times per week for approximately six to eight weeks . Some people may require additional treatment, and appropriate referral to a podiatrist is made. Exercises are a very important part of the realignment procedure as they assist in stabilising the realigned joints. Good comfy footwear is also a very important part of the treatment of the feet. If you have any queries about this therapy, please contact Karen on 385 8692.