CASE STUDIES

Case Study 1: Frozen Shoulder

Mary, a 44 year old charity worker, was referred by her acupuncturist because of pain in the left shoulder and neck, and restriction of movement of the left arm, that had been increasing over several weeks. Examination revealed considerable immobility and was quickly identified as the early stages of ‘Frozen shoulder’. Prompt action was taken to prevent the restriction becoming more severe and long-term.
Treatment consisted of a combination of gentle mobilisation technique for the shoulder and soft-tissue and muscle release techniques for the neck and a personalised exercise programme for the patient to practise at home on daily basis. After just 3 sessions, combined with daily exercise, the full range of movement of the patient’s arm was restored and all neck and shoulder pain had disappeared.

Case Study 2: Back Pain

John, a 42 year old banker is a keen sportsman with a very active lifestyle that was being drastically affected by his chronic back pain. He had tried many different forms of treatment to relieve the pain but none gave lasting improvement and he was suffering from acute stress. During assessment Andre noticed a marked discrepancy in leg length and advised wearing a specially made orthotic (shoe support) as well as following a course of mobilisation treatments and adopting a personalised programme of stretches and exercise to strengthen the lower back. He also advised on stress management and John joined the weekly free meditation class.
After just 6 weeks John was pain free and has remained so. He also reports feeling much more relaxed and able to deal with stress.

Case Study 3: Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Joanne, a 45 year old secretary was suffering from painful RSI on both wrist joints due to excessive typing and poor posture. She had to use anti anti-inflammatory medication daily basis in order to continue working. Andre treated her wrist with gentle mobilisation and soft tissue massage and gave her a daily programme of special exercise to strengthen the wrist. He also did a comprehensive ergonomic assessment of her work environment and posture and advised on changes that would reduce strain on the wrist. After a few weeks Joanne was free from wrist pain for the first time in years. Her productivity at work has increased and she continues with her daily exercises as a preventive measure.