Complementary Therapies

Complementary therapies can work alongside orthodox treatments, helping to improve quality of life and reducing stress. With specialist guidance, they are safe and appropriate to use for most conditions.

We are able to offer patients, free of charge, a number of sessions of either aromatherapy or reflexology, subject to availability. All our therapists are qualified practitioners who are offering their time on a voluntary basis.

Aromatherapy is an ancient therapy, which combines the medicinal properties of plants with the tradition of healing massage with oil. Aromatherapists work holistically and the treatments aim to bring a feeling of wellbeing and relaxation to the client.

Reflexology is a therapy that works on the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands, which correspond to all the organs, glands and parts of the body. Gentle stimulation of these reflexes with the thumbs and fingers relieves stress and tension, improves circulation and promotes normal body function.

For further information, ring 01225 722988

The following contacts may also be helpful:

The Institute for Complementary Medicine
Provides information on complementary therapies, administers the British Register of Complementary Practitioners and is looking at ways to control, regulate and research the different disciplines and techniques. Tel. 020 7237 5165
www.icmedicine.co.uk

The Foundation for Integrated Medicine
Aims to promote integrated healthcare, including orthodox and complementary medicine. Tel. 020 7688 1881
www.fihealth.org.uk

Cancerlink
Publishes a booklet on 'Complementary Care and Cancer'
www.cancerlink.org

Bristol Cancer Help Centre
Offers healing and positive healthcare to people affected by cancer. Practises and develops an holistic approach as an integral part of cancer care. Patient helpline: 0117 980 9505; Information: 0117 980 9500.
www.bristolcancerhelp.org

International Institute of Reflexology (UK)
Maintains professional standards, provides training and has a register of qualified practitioners.
www.reflexology-uk.co.uk

National Federation of Spiritual Healers
Operates a healer referral service to help you find a healer in your area.
Old Manor Farm Studio, Church Street, Sunbury on Thames, TW16 6RG
Tel. 01932 783164; Healer Referral Service 09068 616080
www.nfsh.org.uk

British Acupuncture Council
Represents and governs professionally qualified traditional acupuncturists and publishes a register of practitioners.
Tel 020 8964 0222
www.acupuncture.org.uk

British Homeopathic Association
Professional body which regulates the teaching and practice of homeopathy by registered healthcare professionals.
27A Devonshire Street, London W1N 1RJ
Tel. 020 7935 2163
www.trusthomeopathy.org

Do's and Don'ts Checklist for Complementary Therapy

Do

• Find a reliable practitioner. Recommendations are useful, but it is also worth checking whether there is an organisation that sets standards in the field, and if they have a list of qualified practitioners.
• Try and find someone who has worked with people with the same type of illness as yourself.
• Check on the cost. Most therapies are not available on the NHS and can be expensive. It is worth checking what the cost of treatments should be with a recognised organisation for the therapy you choose.
• Check the number of sessions needed before benefits are felt, and how long each session will take.
• Choose someone you feel comfortable with.

• Be afraid to ask for credentials and references
• Be led to believe there are 'miracle cures'
• Be taken in by people who say you should follow their method and abandon everything else