In a recent study published by the journal, Research in Gerontological Nursing, Reiki was found to reduce pain. depression and anxiety in older patients in a community setting such as nursing homes.

Study participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental or wait list control group. The pre- and post-test measures included the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale-Short Form, Faces Pain Scale, and heart rate and blood pressure.

A quick summary from the report.

Significant differences were observed between the experimental and treatment groups on measures of pain, depression, and anxiety; however, no changes in heart rate and blood pressure were noted.

Analysis of treatment notes and interviews revealed five broad categories of responses:
• Relaxation
• Improved physical symptoms, mood and well-being
• Curiosity and a desire to learn more
• Enhanced self-care
• Sensory and cognitive responses to reiki.

Here is an interesting article about a healthcare professional that was on the fence about Reiki, and now uses it as complimentary therapy for her patients. Click the link to see the entire article.

http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/lifestyle/health/x863181409/Reiki-complements-healing-of-traditional-medicine?img=2
ROCKFORD, Ill. — Her training as a registered dietitian and master’s level health-care administrator left Cathy Keith with little regard for complementary medicines and therapies such as Reiki.

“I was definitely thinking this was all out on the fringe and kind of woo-woo, foo-foo,” Keith said.

Now, she makes Reiki — a therapy using a light touch or hands placed near a patient’s body to assist the idea that energy as a universal life force can be channeled for healing — and a half-dozen other mind-body services available to patients as manager of SwedishAmerican Hospital’s Holistic Health Services.

Keith changed her mind about complementary therapies when she heard what patients said after they had received the treatments.

“I decided to be more open-minded about the possibilities,” she said, “and I set out to engage in more educational and experiential activities so I could make a decision for myself. I became less dogmatic about yes or no, or black or white.

“Suddenly, there was a lot more gray and I had to say maybe there’s more to this than I understand.”