Complementary Therapy
What are complementary therapies?
Treatments such as massage, reflexology, aromatherapy or Reiki, which work in conjunction with conventional treatments such as medication. Our therapists work alongside the medical team of doctors and nurses, providing therapies which will help a wide range of symptoms such as anxiety or pain.
Why do we offer complementary therapy at Severn Hospice?
Complementary therapies play an important role in supporting patients at the Hospice, aiding relaxation and giving a sense of comfort and pleasure. They are sometimes referred to as ‘holistic therapies’, which means that they treat the whole person, body, mind and spirit. Most people find that they benefit greatly from receiving a treatment. Therapies can help with
- Relaxation – patients feel soothed and comforted
- Reducing anxiety or feelings of depression
- Feelings of fatigue
- Reducing pain
- Improving sleep patterns
- Improving symptoms associated with constipation, muscle tension or poor circulation
We can provide emotional support which helps to improve quality of life and gives a real sense of well-being, comfort and security.
One of our patients, Norma, has spoken here about the benefits she has experienced through treatments at the Hospice.
Who can receive the treatments?
At our Shrewsbury site, treatments are provided for in-patients on the wards, patients who attend the Day Hospice and out-patients who have been referred specifically for complementary therapy. As services at our Telford site are still being developed, therapies are only provided for Day Hospice patients at present. However, we do plan to extend our services there as resources become available. At our Newtown site, Day Hospice patients are also able to enjoy a therapy.
Who provides the treatments?
Our qualified team of complementary therapists comprises a mixture of full time and part time staff as well as volunteers.
How can I be referred for complementary therapy?
Your GP, Hospice outreach nurse or Macmillan nurse can refer you as an out-patient. Or, if you are already part of the Hospice family, you can be referred for complementary therapy by any of our healthcare professionals or by our social work team. We do not charge for therapies.
What happens when I have been referred?
Your first meeting with your therapist is very relaxed – a chance to get to know each other, and for your therapist to assess your needs to ensure that treatments are safe and tailored to your individual needs. You can discover the range of therapies available and, together with your therapist, decide which might suit you best.
Treatments take place in the Day Hospice, at your bedside or in a therapy room, depending on your personal needs.
How long do the treatments Last?
Our treatments tend to be fairly short and very gentle. Treatment times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your needs. During the treatment, some patients like to talk, or you may prefer to rest, relax or even fall asleep.
What Therapies are available?
Reflexology
Reflexology is based on the principle that the entire body is ‘mapped out’ 
and reflected in the feet. By applying pressure to the reflex points on the feet and stimulating the nerve endings, it is said we can cause a reaction elsewhere in the body. A wonderfully relaxing treatment, reflexology can help to release tension and reduce stress as well as helping to relieve many other symptoms such pain, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety.
You need only remove your shoes and socks and gentle pressure is applied to provide comfort and deep feelings of relaxation.
Massage
The ancient art of touch – therapeutic, rhythmical, gentle – the kneading and manipulation of the soft tissues to relax, de-stress, ease away aches and pains. Massage can help the body to release our own natural painkillers and provide a sense of contentment, relaxing mind and body.
Aromatherapy
The use of fragrant essential oils which are extracted from plants, trees, flowers, shrubs and fruits, all of which have therapeutic properties – some uplifting, energising or stimulating, while others are relaxing, calming and comforting. Using a blend of essential oils in a massage can help to enhance the benefits as the oils are absorbed through the skin and at the same time the aromas are inhaled, to stimulate both the senses of touch and smell.
Essential oils can be provided as an inhalation so that the fragrant aromas can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or nausea and enhance feelings of well-being, comfort and calm.
Indian Head Massage
A simple yet effective therapy which involves gentle, but firm massage to the upper back, upper arms, neck, shoulders, head and face. Performed over clothing, it can help to ease tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, easing away anxieties, providing feelings of deep calm and inner peace.
Reiki
Pronounced Ray-kee, and translated from Japanese as ‘universal energy’, Reiki is a simple therapy which can help to calm and soothe, providing great comfort. It is based on the principle that ‘universal energy’ is channelled through the therapist to the patient. Performed over clothing, either sitting or lying down, the therapist places hands on or just above your body. Simply relax and enjoy the feelings of warmth and relaxation.
If you would like more information about our complementary therapy service, or are interested in becoming a volunteer complementary therapist, please contact Sue Williams on 01743 235 656 or email suew@severnhospice.org.uk
