We use a holistic approach to cancer care to help us identify and support your needs. We recognise the impact that a cancer diagnosis can have which is why we aim to support you in a range of ways.
We provide complementary therapy services for oncology and haematology patients at Thames View at Charing Cross Hospital, alongside our conventional medical treatments and surgery.
Complementary therapy treatments can offer both emotional and psychological support by helping you relax and experience some relief from your symptoms. Our treatments are delivered by a highly experienced therapist within a tranquil therapy room situated in the private oncology department.
We provide the following complementary therapy services for our patients with cancer:
Indian head massage (IHM)
Aromatherapy massage
Cupping
Reflexology
Reiki
Acupuncture
Indian head massage (IHM)
IHM is a treatment based on old Ayurvedic techniques involving a pressure point massage that focuses on the head, neck, shoulders and upper back areas. Using little to no oil, the massage is mild to moderate pressure and therefore can be modestly given over clothes. A variety of massage movements are used to relieve accumulated tension, stimulate circulation and restore joint movement.
IHM is also used to aid the condition and health of the hair, as well as promote hair growth.
Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils with various beneficial properties to improve wellbeing. Essential oils are extracted from the flowers, fruit, seeds, leaves and the bark of certain trees, each having their own individual benefit.
During the treatment, a bespoke blend is formulated for each patient taking into consideration symptoms and emotional state. The massage is kept light to allow for better absorption of the oils into the skin and bloodstream.
Cupping
Cupping stems from Chinese Medicine and is often combined with acupuncture during a treatment. Cupping is the application of silicone cups being applied to skin to create suction, with the aim of drawing blood and Qi to the surface and rejuvenating inactive tissue cells. The cups can also be glided over the skin with the aid of a little oil, to massage tense or cramping muscles.
Cupping is not recommended for people with fragile skin, low platelet count or history of thrombosis.
Reflexology
Reflexology is an alternative therapy where pressure is applied to specific reflex points to stimulate corresponding nerves and restore balance. It can also be used to pick up on changes in the body.
Reflexology has been known to help boost the immune system and stimulate nerve endings to soothe peripheral neuropathy. It is commonly used in cancer care for its minimalistic approach in treating a person holistically.
Reiki
The Japanese meaning for the word Reiki is ‘Universal Life Energy’. It is the name given to a system of natural energy healing.
During treatment, the patient relaxes into a comfortable position while the practitioner gently places their hands non-intrusively in a sequence of positions to cover the whole body and in doing so, helping channel the universal life energy to you.
Although probably one of the more subtle therapies, Reiki has become increasingly popular among cancer therapy centres for the effect it can have on the emotional state of patients.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient traditional form of medicine used to help restore a natural working order in the body.
It is highly recommended for symptom control during chemotherapy. Clinical studies have proven its effectiveness at relieving nausea and vomiting, improving dry mouth syndrome, reducing hot flushes and treating pain and neuralgia.
Some people have also said that acupuncture helps them feel relaxed and improves their general wellbeing.
Pricing and packages
Complementary therapies can be used alongside conventional treatment such as chemotherapy to support your wellbeing and your therapist will be on hand to discuss the best treatment options for you.
Initially, we offer a consultation including a 15-minute taster session, free of charge for private patients. After these initial sessions, you have the choice of purchasing single 1 hour sessions, which include 45 minutes of hands-on therapy time, for £60 each. For more information email imperial.private.ctherapies@nhs.net, or speak to your Clinical Nurse Specialist or a member of your team.
Blog
How complementary therapies can help patients with cancer
Our complementary therapist, Sabrina Ashraf talks about the benefits of therapies which complement our conventional medical treatments and surgery for our patients with cancer. Here, Sabrina shares her knowledge and experience working as a therapist at Imperial College Healthcare.
