In Patient care

Complementary therapy

Complementary therapies are now very much part of the overall care given in hospices throughout the country. Pilgrims Hospices offers three of the most effective complementary therapies available: aromatherapy, massage and reflexology.

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils to help promote and maintain health and vitality. Essential oils are extracted from a wide variety of aromatic plants, flowers and trees and have been used in medicine for thousands of years. These essential oils are diluted in vegetable massage oil and then massaged onto the body.

Massage is one of the oldest and simplest forms of therapy. It helps the body and mind to relax; it relieves pain, stimulates the blood circulation and improves the elimination of waste products – all vital to good health.

Reflexology is a specialised massage treatment carried out by applying gentle pressure to specific reflex points on the feet or hands, and helps to promote health and the feeling of well being.

All therapies given in the hospice are truly holistic, helping to ease physical pain, anxiety, and spiritual distress.

Therapies are given free of charge as part of the medical care at Pilgrims Hospices and are offered to all patients, whether they are in one of the hospices or at home. They are also available for carers attending Carers Days. Treatments are available in the afternoons, Monday to Friday, from qualified and trained complementary staff and volunteers.

Next steps

Go to the National Association of Complementary Therapist in Hospice and Palliative Care website.

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