Bulimia Treatment
Bulimia Treatment
Contact me about in-person and virtual treatment options for bulimia or other eating disorders.
Amelia Lindberg, MSPT, CLT
230 West 79th Street, New York, New York 10024, United States
Email: amelia@bodyfluentwellness.com Phone: 646-849-2729
What Is Bulimia Nervosa?
Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or misuse of laxatives or diuretics. These cycles often stem from an overwhelming urge to control weight, coupled with intense body dissatisfaction and emotional distress. Individuals with bulimia may feel a loss of control over their eating during binges and experience deep shame or guilt afterward.
My holistic approach to bulimia nervosa recovery goes beyond symptom management, addressing the root causes and fostering a healthier relationship with food and body. It integrates elements of physical therapy, sensory modulation, and personal discovery to create a comprehensive plan tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Signs of Bulimia
Physical Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
- Fluctuations in weight (usually within normal range)
- Swollen cheeks or jawline (from frequent vomiting)
- Calluses or scars on knuckles (from inducing vomiting, known as “Russell’s sign”)
- Bloodshot eyes (from vomiting-induced pressure)
- Sore throat, hoarseness, or chronic throat pain
- Tooth erosion, sensitivity, or discoloration (due to stomach acid from vomiting)
- Bloating or stomach pain after eating
- Chronic digestive problems, such as acid reflux, constipation, or diarrhea
- Frequent dehydration or signs of electrolyte imbalance
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or experiencing headaches
- Irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea in women
- Muscle weakness or cramps (due to low potassium)
- Heart palpitations or chest pain (could indicate electrolyte imbalances)
- Dry skin, brittle nails, and thinning hair
- Constant fatigue or low energy
- Fainting or passing out
- Edema (swelling in the hands and feet)
Behavioral Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
- Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals (often to purge)
- Use of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas for weight control
- Excessive exercise (often as compensation for binge eating)
- Secrecy around eating behaviors (e.g., eating alone or hiding food)
- Rapid eating followed by purging
- Frequent fasting or skipping meals as a means of control
- Frequent binge eating episodes (eating large quantities of food rapidly)
- Stockpiling food or having hidden stashes of food
- Obsessive calorie counting or monitoring
- Use of diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants for appetite suppression
- Stealing or hoarding food
- Engaging in food rituals, like cutting food into tiny pieces or eating foods in a specific order
Emotional and Psychological Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
- Low self-esteem tied to body image and weight
- Preoccupation with food, body shape, and weight
- Extreme mood swings
- Feeling out of control during binge-eating episodes
- Feeling guilty, ashamed, or disgusted after binge eating or purging
- Perfectionism and a harsh internal dialogue
- Anxiety or stress, especially related to weight or food
- Depression or feelings of hopelessness
- Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming “fat”
- Distorted body image (seeing oneself as overweight despite normal or low weight)
Social and Interpersonal Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
- Avoiding social situations involving food (or becoming withdrawn in general)
- Sudden changes in friendships or relationships
- Avoidance of meals or making excuses to not eat with others
- Problems at work or school (due to preoccupation with food or mood changes)
- Avoiding intimacy or relationships due to body image issues
Cognitive Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
- Rigid, all-or-nothing thinking about food and body weight
- Obsessive thoughts related to calories, food, and body weight
- Black-and-white thinking regarding dietary rules (e.g., labeling foods as “good” or “bad”)
- Intense fear of being “out of control” around food
- Persistent belief that thinness equals worth or success
Amelia's Holistic Treatment of Bulimia:
My holistic approach to bulimia nervosa recovery focus on healing both the body and mind. I also work with other healthcare experts when needed to make sure each person gets the best possible care. The key elements of my holistic approach include:
1. Reconnection with the Body:
- I educate clients about anatomy and physiology to help them understand how the body functions and how interconnected systems impact eating behaviors.
- I use sensory modulation techniques, posture awareness, and vestibular nerve stimulation to foster a positive connection with the body, reducing stress and increase body awareness.
2. ‘Active Self-Respect’ Movement:
- Clients are encouraged to embrace an approach called "Active Self-Respect," which emphasizes building strength, stamina, and holistic well-being rather than focusing solely on weight or appearance.
- This movement supports active engagement in personal growth, connection with others, and contributions to the world.
3. Customizable Recovery Framework:
- I offer a flexible recovery framework that empowers clients to design their personal plans for health. This includes meal timing guidelines, stress management, exercise routines, and a focus on personal values and goals.
- Instead of rigid dieting or exercise regimens, I help clients create a balanced, fulfilling life that respects their individuality and preferences.
4. Addressing Biological and Emotional Needs:
- My program restores natural hunger and satiety cues, addressing biological imbalances and emotional triggers that drive disordered eating behaviors.
- Clients learn to identify and meet their biological and emotional needs, replacing disordered eating with healthier coping mechanisms.
5. Integrating Somatic Healing Techniques:
- I incorporate sensory modulation, posture awareness, and vestibular nerve stimulation to reduce anxiety, increase body awareness, and support overall physical and emotional well-being.
- I teach visceral mobility techniques help improve digestion, relieve physical tension, and enhance the body's sense of safety, facilitating a more grounded state.
6. Collaborative Care and Referrals:
- I serve as the first clinician for many clients in their eating disorder recovery journey, offering primary guidance and treatment.
- If needed, I can provide referrals to trusted professionals within my network or collaborate with an established team to integrate specialized techniques and holistic strategies into the client's ongoing recovery efforts.
Amelia Lindberg, physical therapist, provides sensory modulation training and movement-based recovery therapy to decrease body dysmorphia and disordered eating behaviors.
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