What is therapeutic touch?
Therapeutic touch is a complementary medicine therapy that combines insights from ancient healing practices, such as massage and “laying on of hands,” with contemporary theories of energy transfer drawn from physics and neurochemistry. The modern system of therapeutic touch was developed by Dolores Krieger, PhD, RN, a professor emerita of nursing at New York University.
Can therapeutic touch help people with cancer?
Yes. therapeutic touch can be safely used as a comforting complementary treatment to help ease symptoms and side effects of conventional treatment. Many patients report feeling calmer, more relaxed, and energized after therapeutic touch sessions.
Therapeutic touch alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor is it known to affect the biology of the disease or an individual’s outcome. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does therapeutic touch work?
In typical therapeutic touch therapy sessions, the therapist focuses his or her attention on the patient, assesses underlying energy imbalances in the patient’s body, and works to rebalance the patient’s energy field. To accomplish this, the therapist passes his or her hands, held 2 to 6 inches over the patient’s body, down the length of the body, past the toes, and out of the body.
Sessions usually last 30 to 60 minutes. Treatments conclude with practitioners transferring energy to the patient through their hands, using their mind, breath, and intention, to further promote healing at all levels.
Are there any risks or complications associated with therapeutic touch?
No. therapeutic touch is safe, and there are no known risks associated with it. As with other complementary therapies, consult your physician for more information.
How can I find a qualified therapeutic touch practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.