Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Why Complementary Therapy?
Many patients recognise the benefits of Complementary Therapy. The evidence base of its effectiveness is documented in literature but some argue its scientific basis.
Benefits
- Can play a role in relieving stress related symptoms
- Can promote better sleep
- Can support you to feel more positive
- Can ease the effects of constipation
- May help to reduce pain and muscle tension
The risks of complementary therapy are minimal and will be discussed before treatment, e.g., you may experience a localised allergic skin reaction to some essential oils. There are no known risks to Reiki.
Reflexology
- It is thought that there are points on the hands and feet which relate to different areas within the body.
- Very gentle pressure or palpation on these reflex points is carried out and aids relaxation, helps relieve pain, lifts your mood and gives a feeling of well-being.
- Only socks or stockings and shoes need to be removed in order to receive this therapy.
Massage
- Therapeutic massage encourages the body tissue to ‘let go’ of tension and strain, enabling deep relaxation.
- It is gentle, non-invasive and can aid in reducing stress and anxiety levels, promote sleep and enhance mood.
- It can help you cope with pain, muscle stiffness, breathlessness, anxiety and fatigue.
- Massage treatments that we give here are usually part-body treatments only, such as lower arm and hand, lower leg and feet, face and scalp or neck, shoulders and back.
- It can be provided in a chair, on a massage couch or at the bedside.
Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years.
- Essential oils obtained from flowers, herbs, fruits and trees are used in a blend to enhance a massage as they are absorbed through the skin to help promote relaxation and a feeling of well-being.
- Essential oils can also be inhaled or applied topically in creams and lotions.
- The oils will be carefully chosen and used in a very dilute form, taking into consideration any symptoms you may have, your conventional treatment and any side-effects caused by it.
Indian Head Massage
- Treatment is focused on the upper back, shoulders, arms and neck followed by the scalp then finally the face. It is in these areas that a lot of people carry most of their tension.
- Indian head massage can be particularly helpful in the relief of headaches and eye strain and promotes relaxation.
- The massage can be given through light clothing or with minimal removal of upper clothing and is usually given whilst you are sitting in a chair.
Reiki
- The word ‘Reiki’ is a Japanese word meaning ‘universal life energy’.
- Therapists use this ‘energy’ to enhance well-being and harmony within the body.
- You remain fully dressed during a Reiki session and you may receive the therapy lying down or sitting in a chair.
- The therapist places his or her hands on or a little above your body at short intervals. Each position is held for two – five minutes.
- During Reiki some people feel heat, tingling sensations or sometimes nothing at all, but most feel really relaxed and calm on completion.
- After the treatment the client is usually left for a few minutes to ‘come to’, listening to quiet music.
Patients’ Feedback
“A life-line at a very stressful time.”
“Before I saw…….. I was feeling both emotionally and physically low. After my treatment I had greatly improved on both counts.
I feel complementary (therapy) is a very positive experience with great benefits to patients.”
“When you aren’t feeling very well it’s nice to know that this is available and gives you a sense of well being. Great. x “
For further information
Please contact Chemotherapy Day Unit 0n 03006131181
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Cancer care service.
About this information
Service:
Cancer care
Reference:
HH/008
Approval date:
21 June 2024
Review date:
1 June 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.