Fantastic treatment, can't recommend them enough. Tom helped with my various aches and joint pain from running and also gave me so much advice for my upcoming half marathon. The staff are all very friendly and helpful and very accommodating- helping to sort last minute appointments and change/alter when needed. I have seen a few different chiropractors at the clinic and they have all been very knowledgeable and explained everything so clearly. Tom particularly has been great and got me back out running pain-free.
Derek Spicer
Excellent treatment with Aaron, very thorough, and very informative regarding what the various movements and treatment were for, and considerate throughout, highly recommended.
Alison Lane
I had one appointment with Jamie after suffering tremendous pain and he totally relieved the pain, allowing me to carry on with my life as normally as possible with my ongoing back weakness.
I would highly recommend him to anyone and would totally trust him to help me again in the future.
L
Tom has been great right from the start. From listening to me and everything I had to tell him in our first meeting. Taking me and my previous (less good) experience with chiropractors into account and seriously considering why I was there. He helped me, that first time and has done for the number of sessions I've had since. He answers all my nerdy, analytical questions and adapts to me as I need him to. He's also not a snake oil salesman, talking himself out of the possibility of a job within the first month if I found I no longer needed him. None of this "oh, look, another problem I'll need to see you for" malarkey. Tom has been honest and so helpful every time. The reception staff at Skelian are lovely, the atmosphere is nice, and whilst not cheap I have never felt swindled. Only understood, because back pain is a universal suffering we can all sympathise with. Couldn't recommend them and Tom more. And I'll soon be in maintenance, somewhere I never thought I'd get to when all this started in February.
Sarali Thomai
Treatment here took all of my back pain in some appointments. Tom was excellent professional and now I feel safe that whenever I have the same problem I have someone to rely on .
Maria Smith
Will has transformed me. Such knowledge, compassion and expertise! definitely recommend!!
Bethany Norris
Jamie at Skelian has really helped with back injuries and always has helpful suggestions to keep my back at its best.
Lisa Kent
I have been seeing Jamie for the last couple of months, and absolutely can’t recommend him enough. I love his holistic approach and looking at the bigger picture to try and piece together the reasons why my neck and hips are so painful. I always feel anxious when having to go to someone different when it comes to my health, but Jamie is so kind, friendly and understanding of people and how they are feeling. We have had some great results so far with my treatment and feel we are making some headway with all my aches and pains. If you are feeling nervous and not sure what to expect, Jamie is the guy for you.
Imogen Williams
I recently had a sports massage with Brad, due to extended periods of computer use, I suffer with neck and shoulder tension. Brad was able to work out all the knots in my back and shoulders. I have definitively felt the benefits ever since.
Skelian Chiropractic Clinic offers pregnancy massage to members of the public. Sarah Beech is our brilliant massage therapist who is qualified with ITEC in a range of techniques such as, sports massage (level 3), holistic (relaxing) massage, hot stone massage, aromatherapy, Indian head massage and most recently in pregnancy massage. Sarah’s goal is to help her patients lead a pain-free life, whether that is through helping with recovery from an injury, maintaining a balanced, healthy body, or simply allowing oneself to relax and unwind and recover from the stresses of everyday life.
While pregnancy massage can be used for a range of issues, lower back pain is very common during pregnancy, which expecting mothers have treatment for. Lower back pain during pregnancy can be caused by hormonal and biomechanical changes that the body goes through. Lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain are common during pregnancy and people often utilise complementary manual treatment methods such as massage, manipulation of the spine, as well as chiropractic in order to help manage the symptoms.
A large part of your massage during pregnancy with Sarah will be done in the side-lying position, supported with soft pillows for maximum safety and comfort. You will be led mainly on your left-hand side which offers optimum blood flow to the uterus. Seated massage is also an option for those who find it too uncomfortable to lie on their side for long periods. Pregnancy massage at Skelian is offered for people in their second or third trimester and we do advise that you inform your GP or midwife before starting treatment. It can also be used alongside Chiropractic treatment in order to help you reach your goals.
Why might I get lower back pain during my pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the most obvious change that occurs is the gain in weight throughout this timeframe. A female of average weight (before her pregnancy), may gain between 25 to 35 pounds, which is a combination of the weight of the baby, the placenta and the extra fluid retained throughout the body. A range of Postural changes also occur throughout pregnancy, and to stop your centre of gravity from moving too far forward as the baby grows, the curvature of the lower back, known as the lordosis, increases. This leads to a shortening of the lower back muscles and an approximation of the moveable ‘facet’ joints (seizing up of the muscles and joints) within the lower spine, which can be uncomfortable.
In the third trimester, ankles may begin to swell, whilst the legs and feet may begin to outwardly rotate to compensate for the altered pelvic position, as it tilts forwards, which can cause aching in the lower back. During pregnancy, a release of the hormone called ‘relaxin’ leads to an increase in the laxity/stretch of the ligaments which become increasingly elasticated, in order to prepare the body for the birthing process. This may lead to stability issues around the pelvic girdle and increased stress through the sacro-iliac joints of the pelvis.
Benefits of pregnancy massage
Relieves anxiety and stress
Massage is helpful for relieving any stress and anxiety that may be building up throughout your pregnancy. In your 9 month-long journey you will probably experience many ups and downs, and a relaxing, hour-long session can help to clear your mind and leave you feeling more relaxed.
Massage helps to aid sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep during pregnancy can be a challenge for a variety of reasons – from the increased pressure on your muscles and joints to having more fluid in your body. Pregnancy massage may help you to sleep better throughout the night by reducing tension within the body.
Promotes a sense of well-being
If you want to feel good about yourself, mind and body, then massage can certainly help you to feel this way. An hour-long session of pregnancy massage can leave you feeling comfortable, healthy and happy and provides a good opportunity to unwind.How do I book my pregnancy massage? If you are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy and are not considered to have a high-risk pregnancy (your midwife or GP will clarify for you if this is the case), then you are able to book directly through our clinic reception on: 01242 254000 between 8.30-7pm on weekdays or on Saturday between 9-1pm.Sarah Beech is available at Skelian Chiropractic Clinic in Cheltenham on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for appointments. If you have any questions then please call the clinic and we will do our best to answer your questions.References:
Muhlemann D (2015). Low back pain in pregnancy: Diagnosis, Treatment options and outcomes.
Hall et al. (2016). The effectiveness of complementary manual therapies for pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain: A systematic review with meta-analysis.
