Reflexology & Complimentary Therapies Ease Stress in Hospice Care

“We use a lot of reflexology and healing touch. Complimentary therapies  including reflexology, massage, healing touch, bedside harp and aromatherapy can bring patients and their caregivers a sense of peace.” That’s what Valerie Hartman, Leader of the National Council of Hospice and Palliative Professionals had to say about the complementary therapy program at Holy Redeemer Hospice Care in Philadephia, PA. 

Complementary therapies can help the patient and caregiver cope with fear and stress and alleviate the symptoms caused by them, Hartman said.  Studies are also being done to determine the efficacy of the therapies by measuring the amount of cortisol and adrenalin — stress hormones — in the blood stream.  “When we finish working with someone, we provide that type of relief and comfort and that looks and feels a lot like peace,” said Hartman. “That’s what the hospice team is trying to achieve and complementary therapy is a very important adjunct.”

Complementary therapies are being increasingly used in palliative care in the drive to improve patients’ emotional, psychological and spiritual health, and enhance the quality of their lives. A study published in England with 34 patients completing 4-6 sessions of reflexology identified relaxation, relief from tension and anxiety, feelings of comfort and improved well-being as beneficial effects of their course of reflexology. Researchers are now challenged to provide a relevant holistic assessment of complementary therapies using approaches that are both ethical and sensitive to the needs of this vulnerable patient population.

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