Another recent clinical study, conducted by doctors at the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, demonstrates that complementary therapies that elicit the relaxation response, which include acupuncture, acupressure, massage therapy, healing touch (such as Reiki), reflexology and others, provided pain relief and reduced discomfort in up to 50% of hospitalized patients. 

Patients who receive complementary therapies may be able to reduce the amount of pain medication they’re taking, as well as cope better with the often strong side effects associated with opioid medications.  In my experience having facilitated Reiki treatments to people in the clinical setting, I have seen patients drift off comfortably to sleep, and they have reported to me that they felt significantly less pain and improved sense of well-being, which is critical to a good recovery. 

If you or someone you know is undergoing a medical procedure, I suggest seeing if the hospital has someone who can provide these complementary therapies through a patient wellness program, or contact someone who is practicing professionally who can make a hospital visit.  Reiki is a good choice, because hands-on contact is very gentle, but it can be done without direct contact if the patient is sensitive to touch following surgery.   However, any of these complementary therapies will provide benefit to the patient, depending on their personal preference.