Packs of medicinal effect
During this treatment the skin is salved with ointment that contains medicine then it is covered first with a moist then with a dry sheet, finally it is wrapped into a blanket. The medicinal materials can absorb more easily thanks to the warm. Particularly effective for arthritis.
Padel
combination of tennis and squash
Parafango
Volcanic mud is mixed with paraffin wax to alleviate aches and pains caused by such illnesses as rheumatism and arthritis.
Penzel massage
It is based on traditional Chinese therapy and acupuncture but it is without pinprick. The body’s functional complaints can be treated this way.
Perspiratory pack
A cold, moist sheet is wrapped around the body under which there are pre-heated bottles and even eiderdown and blanket is put on top. During the two hour treatment the body temperature augments by 1-2 °C intensifying certain function of the liver and the metabolic system. This way the body’s resistiviy increases, the immune system gets stronger and the patient loses weight.
Phosphorus
Along with calcium, it is an important building block in the development of teeth and bones. Phosphorus also plays an important role in the protein, body fat and carbohydrate metabolism as well in the storage of energy in the body. Found mainly in fully ground grains, -bread, -flour, egg yolk (recommended maximum consumption is 3-5 egg yolks weekly), spinach, green peas, meats, meat products, offals, cheese.
Physiotherapy
those therapeutic processes where physical energy is expended to serve the healing process. This includes mechanotherapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound and phototherapy .
Pilates
Body conditioning program developed by Joseph Pilates meant to develop flexibility and strength without building bulk via a system of controlled movements and specially designed exercise equipment.
Potassium
An important element in the development of cells. Also important for the working of the muscles and, therefore, is needed for the heart. Potassium is also part of the regulation of bodily fluids. When there is a lack of potassium, it can cause weak muscles, muscle spasms, and an increase in blood pressure as well as cardiovascular problems, peristalsis and problems with the functioning of the kidneys.
P. Acnes
Bacteria associated with the sebaceous follicle.
Panchakarma
Ayurvedic purification treatments incorporating essential oils, massage and meditation.
Parafango
A treatment incorporating paraffin and mineral-rich volcanic mud. See also Fango Therapy.
Paraffin
Warm, melted wax enriched with hydrating substances such as menthol and essential oils.
Paraffin Wrap
Melted paraffin wax is brushed on to help relax muscles and soften skin.
Parcours
An outdoor trail that contains various exercise stations of increasing difficulty along the way. Trail is usually less than 2 miles; also spelled parcourse or called vitacourse.
Papule
Pimple; small –circumscribed elevation on the skin containing no fluid.
pH
Measurement of the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution of a scale of 1 –14 with anything below 7 being acidic and anything over 7 being alkaline.
Photo-aging
Includes sun damage, fine lines, and discoloration.
Physiochineitherapy
Therapy incorporating heat, light, electrical and mechanical movements to rejuvenate strength and flexibility.
Phytotherapy
A system of Western herbal medicine, combining tradition with science.
Pilates
Strength training and conditioning program Invented by Dr. Joseph Pilates of Germany. It uses specialized stretches to tone muscles, often performed on Pilates equipment or floor mats.
Pilo–Sebaceous Unit
Unit comprised of the follicle, the hair and the sebaceous gland.
Piloga
An exercise routine combining Pilates and yoga.
Pinda Swedana
Deep massage using rice boiled in milk and herbs. Relaxing, rejuvenation, and detoxifying.
Pitta
Term for one of Ayurvedic body functions, referring to heat and metabolism. See also Doshas.
Pituitary Gland
The hormone-secreting gland found at the base of the brain that regulates hormones.
Pizichilli
A continuous stream of warm herbal oil is poured over the body as two therapists gently massage.
Plunge Pools
Two pools filled with hot and cold water revitalize circulation as the person immerses themselves in each, alternating hot and cold. Also known as Roman pools.
Polarity Massage
Massage technique to promote balance of energy in the body; often incorporates gentle rocking motions. Developed by Dr. Randolph Stone.
Polysaccharide
A sugar, such as glycogen, starch and cellulose; carbohydrate composed of many monosaccharide units.
Polypeptide
A molecule made of many joined amino acids.
Prolotherapy
An irritant solution is injected into soft tissues, such as ligaments or tendons, to promote healing in the area.
Pus
Fluid product of inflammation, consisting of a liquid containing white blood cells, dead cell debris and tissue elements.
Pustule
Pus filled lesion raised above the surface of the skin.