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June 9, 2006
Integrative Therapy Works In RI Hospital
A Kent County, Rhode Island hospital has implemented an integrative therapies department offering massage, Reiki, craniosacral therapy and reflexology. They provide discount massage to hospital staff and the public at large, while offering massage for free to patients admitted for longer than 24 hours.
The hospital conducted an extensive research study on the impact of these treatments on customer satisfaction.
Wharton discovered through her study that there are proven benefits for patients with stroke, those undergoing dialysis, those with orthopedic injuries and obstetrics patients. Some patients who received these types of treatments, Wharton said, were able to go without their pain medication for longer periods of time and, in some cases, forego them completely. These treatments have also been shown to lower blood pressure, help with immunity, circulation, improve coloring and increase comfort level, Wharton said.
"Even for cancer patients who were receiving integrative care, outcomes turned out far better than those receiving just the traditional forms of treatment," she said. "The power of the human touch is amazing."
Hospitals everywhere could benefit from an integrative therapy department.
tags: massage massagetherapy wellness massage therapy bodywork health
Posted by linda at June 9, 2006 12:23 PM
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