Specialist Complementary Therapy Service

Walsall’s Specialist Complementary Therapy Service offers patients with a diagnosis of cancer and those with palliative care needs a range of treatments which aim to ease the burden of their condition and improve their wellbeing.

The Complementary Therapy treatments offered can be used safely alongside conventional medicine but are not offered as an alternative treatment.

Patients often comment that our therapies have helped to ease their symptoms of stress and anxiety, while some report a reduction in pain, nausea and hormonal symptoms.

Our service offers the following range of Complementary Therapies:

Guided Relaxation Techniques

A range of empowering techniques to induce relaxation through progressive muscle relaxation, breathing techniques and guided imagery e.g techniques may involve describing a relaxing scene to you like a beach walk or walking through a forest.

Suitability and booking for these therapies is assessed and offered on an individual basis as appropriate.

Download: 01-Learn-to-relax-With-music.mp3
Download: 02-Learn-to-relax-Just-voice.mp3

Right-click to save-as and download. The audio files are copyright of Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and must not be transferred or copied without the express permission of the Specialist Complementary Therapy Service.

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils derived from plants which may be used within gentle massage, provision of  inhalation blends, lotion blends or rollerball blends. To promote health and well being of the body, mind and spirit.

Massage

A gentle massage can help to induce feelings of calm while also improving circulation, easing tension in muscles and reducing pain. The application of gentle pressure and massage techniques can provide a deep sense of relaxation and comfort. Your therapist may use cream or base oils to provide a gentle massage. It may also include the use of aromatherapy oils to enhance the treatment if appropriate to your needs.  Massage can be applied to various parts of the body, most commonly to the back, neck and shoulders or to the feet. Your therapist will discuss with you the most suitable massage for your needs.

HEARTS Process

A gentle relaxation process developed by Ann Carter. Hearts stands for: Hands on, Empathy, Aroma, Relaxation, Textures and Sound. It draws on a range of natural skills and sensory experiences to relax and calm.

Auricular Acupuncture

(Ear) Acupuncture – A branch of traditional Chinese medicine involving the insertion of acupuncture needles into the outer ear aiming to provide relief from a variety of symptoms.

This treatment may be offered to you to support with hormonal symptoms such as hot flushes / sweats. Auricular acupuncture is routinely delivered in group settings. Your therapist will advise if this therapy is suitable to your needs.