Chrones disease

[Teala]

Hello,
I have a new client coming on Friday and she has Chrones disease. My pathology book was borrowed and never returned.
Any info on this? I know it's painful and has to do with the digestive (intestines)...that's about it. How can I best help her?
Thanks in advance.
Karen

 

[Wott Wott]

SimplyBee,
I had a co-worker once who had Chron's (inflammatory bowel) disease and I know symptoms often get worse when the client is undergoing a lot of stress. I believe that some people have had moderate success with stress reduction techniques, which of course, includes massage.

Chron's disease:
http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/Crohns-Disease/tc/Crohns-Disease-Topic-Overview

Chron's disease - other treatment:
http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/Crohns-Disease/tc/Crohns-Disease-Other-Treatment

I might be inclined to suggest aromatherapy to enhance the massage's stress reducing effects.

Let us know how it goes for you!

 

[daffodil]

I have a client with Crohns. Flair ups are directly related to stress and diet. Massage really helps her with her stress level.

 

[Pompal 09.]

Thanks guys.
Light abdominal work is helpful or contraindicated? Will she have any problems laying on the table?
Her doctor recomended massage but she's never had it before.
Thanks again, Karen

 

[tales06]

Both my brother and son have Crohn's Disease. Neither one has ever had any problems lying on the table. Abdominal massage would be good unless they are in the middle of a flare-up. Just check with your client to see if she'd like you to massage or abdomin or not.

Stress relief certainly helps.

Angie

 

[Elsabe]

Have never massaged anyone with Chron's disease as I worked with the above mentioned co-worker before attending MT school. (About 11 years ago.)
On the other hand my BIL has Ulcerative Colitis, which is also an inflammatory bowel issue and he receives massage as often as possible when I visit. I haven't specifically worked his abdomen in a long time but he always requests lower back work. When he is in flare up (and this would be true of clients with Chron's as well) he doesn't usually request massage because he may have a "bathroom emergency" and have to make a dash for the bathroom. (Not so relaxing, you know?)
I'd recommend having a bathroom close by, and a spa robe or something quick for her to slip on in case such an emergency comes up!
The most important thing is to of course find out what she thinks will help her to feel better.
Perhaps a warm compress, water bottle or herbal pack to soothe the abdominal muscles before working them? Essential oils which aid digestion or help with inflammation? The type of music which soothes her soul?
IMHO, the fact that you are taking into consideration her needs or possible needs will probably earn you big points with her!

 

[Meeka]

Thank you everyone!!
The appointment went fine. I'm not sure she knew what to expect anymore than I did. It turns out there were no flair up problems. I didn't do any abdominal work per her feedback but she REALLY enjoyed the massage. It turns out it wasn't any different than any other client but the info was good to know. Who's to say that she won't be a having flair up next time. ???
I really appreciate the info from you guys.
Karen

 

[|Gordon| |Freeman|]

I have Crohn's disease and I can tell you from my experience that it's rare to find anyone as understanding and accommodating as you seem to be. I'm sure she could feel your caring intent. Stress is definitely a huge factor with Crohn's, and many simple things like getting a massage can become unnecessarily stressful as the Crohn's thing is always on the mind.

People with Crohn's often suffer from lower back problems, arthritis, joint pain, wandering inflammation, tenderness, headaches, etc etc as a result of the disease and drug treatments. The side effects of drugs can often be worse than the symptoms of the disease, especially if not in a flare - giving some focus to those could really help someone manage this illness.