A number of different one-to-one ‘touch’ therapies are offered. Some may be more suitable for you than others. We will discuss this with you when we make your first appointment.
Aromatherapy massage is a form of gentle massage using carefully selected essential oils. These oils are extracted from flowers, herbs, trees or other plants. Their therapeutic value has been recognised since ancient Egyptian times and they have been used in many cultures.
The oils will be carefully chosen with you and used in a very dilute form, taking into consideration any symptoms you may have, your treatment and any side-effects cause by it.
This is particularly important in order to prevent, as far as is possible, any skin sensitivity to the oils (very rare) or any increase in existing symptoms such as nausea. Most people find the sessions extremely relaxing and beneficial to mind and body alike.
Indian head massage is a relaxing treatment concentrating on massaging the head and also the shoulders, neck and face. As the name suggests, this therapy originated in India.
The treatment involves massage and acupressure point techniques on the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp and face.
Indian head massage helps to bring about a feeling of calmness, well-being and relaxation and may help to alleviate stress, tension and insomnia. It may also help to relieve neck and shoulder stiffness.
The treatment will take place in a quiet room within the LJMC. You will be seated in a chair and you do not have to remove your clothing.
The treatment normally lasts 15-30 minutes and we may be able to offer a short course or a one-off session.
Reflexology is based on the theory that particular areas of the feet are related to different areas of your body. By applying gentle pressure to these points, the different body ‘systems’ can be gently re-balanced.
The main use of reflexology at the LJMC is to improve relaxation and wellbeing. In some instances people report that it can help specific symptoms such as pain or constipation.
Reflexology has the advantage that some painful areas can still be treated through your feet rather than touching the painful parts.
Please note that reflexology is not suitable for anyone with phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the arms and legs. Please contact the LJMC Helpline (020 3826 2555) if you have any concerns about this.
Reiki is a complementary therapy which can also be used alongside other therapies to help and support you. It is a very gentle therapy which promotes better health and a feeling of well-being.
The treatment will take place in a quiet room within the LJMC. There is no need for you to undress and you may receive the treatment lying down or sitting in a chair, whichever is most comfortable for you. The therapist will make sure of your comfort at all times.
The therapists will move their hands either with a light touch or no touch at all (if you prefer) over your body at short intervals.
There is no need to wear special clothing. Comfort is the main aim so we advise you to wear something loose.
Patients often have side-effects following treatments for their cancer. These can include side-effects such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, digestive problems, hot flushes and urinary problems.
Research conducted at the LJMC has also shown that some women with early stage breast cancer experience many side-effects such as hot flushes following their treatments and that acupuncture can help them cope with these side-effects.
Research undertaken in other centres and our own pilot research project has shown that men with prostate cancer have also benefitted from this treatment.
At the LJMC, this treatment is given in a small group setting. Please note that there are some eligibility criteria which you must meet in order to be given ear acupuncture at the LJMC.
Download our information leaflets for more details:
| PI18a Ear acupuncture service for women |  |
| PI18b Ear acupuncture service for men | |