The colon is an extremely important organ which carries out a number of vital functions. These include the synthesis of certain vitamins and the absorption into the body of water soluble nutrients. The colon is also a major part of the excretory system of the body, which removes those by-products of digestion and the waste produced by the very many processes in every cell of our body, as well as protecting us from infection and disease.

In a normally functioning colon, all this is achieved with the help of billions of friendly bacteria which normally inhabit the colon and make up some 70% of the dry weight of our faecal waste. However, the delicate balance of this internal ecosystem can very easily be disturbed by a number of factors including stress, pollution, electromagnetic influences, poor food and drink choices, certain drugs, smoking and exposure to toxic substances.

The results of this imbalance may be seen in the fact that although the transit time of food through a healthy body is less than 24 hours, on average in the UK it is more than 60 hours for men and 70 for women. One in three people consulting G.P.'s have a bowel problem. Bowel disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, Diverticulitis and yeast infections are now widespread. The repercussions of a toxic bowel may be seen throughout the body system in a wide range of health problems.

Colonic Hydrotherapy, also referred to as Colonic Irrigation, is simply an internal bath that helps to cleanse the colon of poisons, gas, accumulated faecal matter and mucus deposits. Such techniques as practiced at the Northern Integrative Health Practice in Sacriston, Durham were first recorded in 1500BC and have been used in traditional medicine since that time. Using sterilised equipment, filtered water is gently introduced into the rectum and this causes the progressive softening of faecal matter and compacted deposits. Colonic Hydrotherapy is more effective and causes much less discomfort than an enema, since the whole colon is treated and water is not purposely retained. It is an excellent complementary therapy in that it markedly improves the response of the client to dietary, homeopathic, herbal, manipulative and other therapies.

Poor elimination of waste products soon leads to a toxic environment, then every cell of your body is trying to do the many millions of chemical and electrical processes it does, under an enormous handicap. It's like you trying to work in a home with no drains or refuse collection. This toxic environment can contribute to many chronic conditions; it is these very conditions that colonic hydrotherapy can help: Constipation - Diarrhoea - Colitis - Spastic Colon - Diverticulitis - Liver sluggishness - Sinusitis - Headaches - Flatulence - Skin Problems (Acne, Eczema and Psoriasis) - Abdominal bloating - Allergies - Asthma - Fatigue - Feelings of Fatigue and Depression - Conditions such as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and intestinal Candidiasis can be helped by the effect of Colonic Hydrotherapy.

YES. Equipment is sterilised using medically approved sterilisation solutions which kill all prevalent bacteria, viruses and fungi in minutes. Hundreds of thousands of colonics have been given safely; the water pressure is low, so there is no danger of bowel perforation and the water used is pre-filtered. Normal bowel bacteria are replaced within 48 hours. Unlike the regular use of laxatives, colonic hydrotherapy is not habit forming and in fact improves colon muscle tone. Therapists at The NIHP Sacriston Practice in Durham belong to the Association and Register of Colonic Hydrotherapists and are required to maintain high professional standards. The Association was founded in 1987 by Dr. M Siewart, a Medical Practitioner and Chiropractor.

No special measures are necessary prior to treatment, although results may be more rapidly achieved by following a course in colon cleansing. Following the first appointment, which can last up to an hour and a half, each appointment lasts roughly one hour. Conducted by a trained therapist, filtered water at carefully regulated temperature is introduced under gentle gravitational pressure through the rectum into the colon. With special massage techniques, the water begins to soften and cleanse the colon of faecal matter and old deposits which are piped away with the waste water. The therapist works progressively round the structure of the colon allowing water alternately to flow in then release. Herbal preparations may be used for certain conditions and Lactobacillus acidophilus may be used to assure normalisation of bowel flora. Advice on diet may also be offered. The modesty of the patient is preserved at all times.

Most people quickly experience improved mental clarity after colonic hydrotherapy. With their toxic load diminished and elimination improved, a feeling of well being and lightness is felt. Relief from bloating and constipation, toxic headaches, painful haemorrhoids and skin problems follows and in the longer term, risk of bowel disease is diminished and nutrients are better absorbed leading to an all-round improvement in health.

Call today on 0191 398 0000 or drop-in to the practice on Durham Road in Sacriston, Durham, DH7 6FE.