A new study to evaluate Reiki
Complementary therapies have been an integral part of the LJMC service offering since the centre first opened. Reiki has been offered as a therapy for some years and we now have an opportunity to evaluate patients’ experiences in more depth.
Reiki (pronounced ray-kee) means ‘universal life energy’. It is a gentle therapy which works by the warmth and comfort of the therapist’s hands which are held on or just above the body.
It is particularly thought to be of benefit when patients are experiencing high levels of pain or discomfort and do not choose to have a touch therapy.
This new study will be led by Neha Pragji who is undertaking it as part of her professional doctorate in health psychology. Neha will particularly be looking at the benefits perceived by patients and how it affects their quality of life and the way in which they cope.
Complementary therapies are often helpful in helping patients cope with their diagnosis and treatment and Neha will be examining a number of different aspects including emotional and physical responses to Reiki.
When patients request a course of complementary therapy at the LJMC, in addition to aromatherapy and reflexology, they will be offered Reiki and invited to participate in the study.
Patients will be asked to complete a short questionnaire before their first treatment which will provide a baseline measure. They will also be asked to complete other questionnaires during their course of five treatments to assess both the short and long term benefits.
The study will also be extended to include patients on the wards of the Cancer Centre. This is the first time we have been able to offer Reiki as part of our inpatient service and it is hoped that nurses may be able to provide invaluable feedback on patients’ welfare following the therapy.
The team is also looking at ways in which Reiki can be given in the chemotherapy suite while patients are receiving treatment.
If you would like to know more about Reiki and about this study, please contact our Complementary Therapy Co-ordinators, Cherry Mackie and Pam Thorpe, on 01923 844694.
Last updated: 22 March, 2011
