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Research: OLSON and colleagues,
Listed in Issue 98
Abstract
OLSON and colleagues, Faculty of Nursing and International Institute for Qualitative Methodology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, report on a phase II trial of Reiki for the management of pain in advanced cancer.
Background
Background: The trial aimed to assess Reiki as a pain-relieving and quality of life-improving measure in advanced cancer pain.
Methodology
24 cancer patients received either standard opioid treatment plus rest or opioids plus Reiki on two non-consecutive days. VAS pain ratings, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration were assessed before and after each treatment or rest time. Analgesic use was reported for 7 days. Quality of life was assessed before and after the treatment period.
Results
Patients who received Reiki reported better pain control after each treatment and better quality of life over the period. Opioid consumption was however unchanged.
Conclusion
The authors find the results encouraging but feel that future research will need to control the intervention for touch alone.
References
Olson K et al. A Phase II trial of Reiki for the management of pain in advanced cancer patients. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 26(5): 990-7. Nov 2003.
Comment
Again, the treatment assessed is not enough to produce a substantial effect. It also seems a pity that the rather obvious proper control, simple touch, was not used in the first place.
