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Complementary Therapies
“It’s so rewarding to see people’s anxiety and tension just melt away, andto hear that they feel better after their treatment.”
Barbara Burden, complementary therapist
The benefits of complementary therapies, such as aromatherapy, massage, Indian head massage, reiki and reflexology, are widely acknowledged.
From relieving stress and headaches to helping with pain control, insomnia and skin irritation, they add an extra dimension to the programme of care we offer at the hospice.
We have a private treatment room where patients can relax and enjoy some time just for them, or therapists can visit patients on the ward.
We also offer this service to carers, who can often forget their own well- being is important too.
Tailoring the therapy to you
Our professional therapists can advise on the best treatment to have, taking any medical concerns into consideration.
It’s not always possible to offer the full range of treatments to patients, depending on their condition, but we can tailor a treatment to individuals’ needs.
Therapies
Massage
Massage is the manual manipulation of the body’s soft tissue for therapeutic purposes, promoting health and well-being. It has beneficial effects on all bodily systems, including the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, lymphatic, nervous, respiratory and digestive systems. It can:
- Help increase joint mobility
- Relieve muscular stiffness and spasms, increasing flexibility
- Improve circulation and help to decrease blood pressure
- Help reduce oedema (excess fluid in the tissue)
- Either stimulate or soothe nerves depending on the techniques used
- Reduce pain by the release of endorphins
- Deepen respiration and improve lung capacity
- Help relieve constipation, colic and gas by stimulating digestion
Aromatherapy
The combination of massage and the medicinal and therapeutic qualities of the essential oils (both inhaled and absorbed through the skin) can soothe, revitalise, uplift the spirit, encourage positive thinking and boost the immune system, enabling the body to heal itself.
“It makes me feel special”
Kamla, patient
Reflexology
Reflexology is based on the belief that there are reflex areas on the feet (and hands) corresponding to all the parts of the body, including major organs. The therapist stimulates these organs and systems through the reflexes, applying pressure to the feet with thumb and fingers.
Most people can benefit from reflexology. It can bring relief to a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions and is suitable for all ages.
“I don’t know what I’d do without it”
Doreen, carer
Indian Head Massage
This simple yet effective therapy uses a variety of techniques to manipulate soft tissue. The therapist uses a range of different massage pressures and rhythms to stimulate the head, neck, upper back and shoulder area.
Indian Head Massage can provide instant relief from tension and stress and induce a state of calm, peace and tranquility.
”Absolutely wonderful. Very unexpected, despite a full explanation. Very warming and relaxing - fabulous.”
Angela, patient
Reiki
Reiki (pronounced ray-key) means “universal life energy”. It is a Japanese system of healing which promotes all aspects of well-being.
Unlike other therapeutic touch therapies, Reiki is a form of healing which involves the channelling of positive energy flow to the receiver through touch. This means that it is not easy to describe the physiological effects of treatment. However, it is still a profoundly powerful healing tool and its benefits are generally far-reaching. Reiki is something which has to be experienced and is often impossible to describe clearly in words.
“It makes me relax mentally and I think it is very good for me. I would never refuse a session”
Jean, patient
If you have any further questions about Compton Hospice and Services/Medical, please call 0845 225 5497 or contact us. We will do our utmost to help with your enquiry.
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