Healing by gentle touch
reduces pain and stress in patients, new research from the
University of Cumbria has shown.
Ongoing research by
the university shows that patients’ symptoms improved when
treated by using this technique.
A study of data from
300 clients of the Centre for Complementary Care in Muncaster,
Cumbria, with a wide range of ailments, who received four
one-hour treatment sessions within six weeks showed
statistically significant improvements in psychological and
physical functioning, particularly in stress reduction, pain
relief, increased ability to cope and increased general health.
The most substantial
improvements were seen in clients with the most severe symptoms
when they entered the study. Sub-group analyses of data from
clients with cancer, musculo-skeletal ailments and with mental
health disorders or psychological stress showed clear benefits
for each group of clients.
Helen Leathard,
Professor of Healing Science and Pharmacology, said, “On the
basis of this sound evidence, healing by gentle touch should
play a part in the treatment of people with cancer, mental
health problems, or a wide variety of illnesses where help with
pain or stress reduction will enhance their well-being. The
treatment provided at the Centre for Complementary Care is
beneficial and well regarded by many doctors and nurses in the
Cumbria area, where this research was conducted. It is very
definitely complementary to conventional medicine and not a
replacement.”
The Centre’s Director,
Gretchen Stevens, said, “Our form of complementary care is
proven to help patients who are suffering with a wide variety of
illnesses. We never over-promise and consistently have patients
referred to us who benefit from our treatments. I’m not
surprised by the research outcomes but I am by the level of
scepticism linked to the treatment.
“As well as
individual treatments of healing by gentle touch, the Centre
offers a place of peace and safety where people can come for
help and information at times of personal crisis. We run an
active volunteer programme in which clients with disabilities
and health problems regain social skills, participate in useful
work and, when possible, regain employment.”
To find out
more please log on to
http://www.cccare.org/|.
The Faculty of Health,
Medical Sciences & Social Care at the University of Cumbria
currently provides the greatest breadth of Health & Social Care
education provision between Greater Manchester and Central
Scotland, as well as the largest post-qualifying Social Work
provision in the North West. It is also a leading centre for
Medical Imaging Research, especially in image interpretation and
medical imaging education.
