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565 Foxhall Road
Ipswich,
Suffolk
IP3 8LX
T: (01473) 727776
F: (01473) 274717
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Which complementary therapies are offered at the Hospice?

The complementary therapy team at St Elizabeth Hospice has expertise in a range of therapies including aromatherapy, massage, reflexology, Reiki and Bach flower remedies.

Aromatherapy is the controlled use of essential oils obtained from plants. It is used in the treatment of physical symptoms such as skin problems, muscular aches and pains and to promote a feeling of well-being, relaxation and stress relief. It is usually combined with massage and home blends can be provided.

Reflexology is a unique method of stimulating reflex areas on the hands and feet to activate the body's own healing powers, bringing the body and mind back to a balanced state. It has been found to be beneficial for physical and emotional symptoms. Reflexology is often combined with aromatherapy to promote a deeper sense of relaxation and benefit.

Reiki is a hands-on complementary therapy promoting a feeling of relaxation and comfort, and is both gentle and non-invasive. During a Reiki treatment, the energy balancing effects experienced may give rise to sensations of heat, cold or slight tingling. These feelings will pass when relaxation occurs. Reiki has been found to be beneficial for physical and emotional symptoms.

Bach flower remedies help to balance the emotional demands of everyday life. They are usually mixed together to match the way you feel and taken as needed.

What to expect

A complementary therapy treatment can be received in day care, at the bedside or in a specially designated treatment room, depending on your personal circumstances. The practitioner will make an assessment and discuss the treatment that is most suited to meet your individual needs. The choice of aromatic oils depends on your personal preferences as well as their therapeutic value. Before treatment you may need to remove clothing covering the area to be treated. (NB: full body massage is not available.)

Each treatment is a time for you; you may wish to talk or rest. Your comfort will be considered at all times. Following treatment you will be assisted back to your bed area/chair as necessary. Additional treatments will be offered according to your assessed need and complementary practitioner availability. As a member of the Hospice team, the complementary practitioner has access to your notes and will record the treatment given and can liaise with other members of the team with your permission.

After care advice

Most people find that they relax during a treatment. It is therefore important to take time to feel fully alert before starting other activities, especially driving or using machinery. It is recommended that you relax and rest for as long as possible following treatment, avoid alcohol and avoid eating a heavy meal for two hours. The body may be stimulated to remove toxins that have been released by the treatment.

Symptoms such as thirst, increased urination, headache, pronounced emotions, tiredness or feeling invigorated and energised are all possible signs of this. Drinking extra water may enhance the benefits of the treatment.

Treatments may relieve physical symptoms; however it is important to continue with all prescribed medication.

In the unusual event of a rash developing, report this to the complementary therapy practitioner or a member of the Hospice medical team as this may indicate an adverse reaction to the aromatherapy oils used.

Qualified practitioners are usually available from 10:00 -15:30, Monday to Friday. For an appointment and/or assessment you can self-refer by contacting the complementary therapies team leader or via any member of the Hospice staff. Referral forms are available from a patient services secretary.