Gastrointestinal System

Finally! We are to the poop and vomit chapter. A real life "garbage in, garbage out". Today we reviewed the gi anatomy; keeping in mind that the alimentary canal is just one large tube. We discussed the organs and the accessory organs. What does the LMT do for the patient with a colostomy bag? We discussed the three body types (and I came out of the closet as a happy endomorph!) When providing massage for the larger patient, remember your treatment area is an area of unconditional acceptance.

Symptoms of gi disease
Abd. pain is never normal
Neither is blood in the stool
Difficulty swallowing
Having a mass in the abdomen might be pretty cool if you are into chanting, incense, and all that kneeling/standing/sitting. It's a joke people!
Nausea or vomiting
oral lesions
rebound tenderness
fatigue or lethargy

Our pathologies d'jour:
Appendicitis
Cholecystitis
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Constipation
Diarrhea
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Obesity
Ulcers

The worksheet is the only homework for this week.

Remember, NO SCHOOL NEXT THURSDAY OR FRIDAY NOV. 21 OR 22. You are more than welcome to come sit in the parking lot for four hours those days, but your time will not be used productively as school will be closed. So, your call.

I wish you a blessed Thanksgiving holiday. Don't forget: Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday, it's an attitude.

Hugs and mashed potatoes!
val.