Positive Health Online

Abstract

PHIPPS, Division of Behavioral Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 332 N. Lauderdale, Memphis, TN 38105-2794, USA, sean.phipps@stjude.org, has reviewed (64 references) complementary health promotion interventions in the reduction of distress associated with bone marrow transplants in children. Abstract: Bone marrow transplant remains a prolonged and physically demanding procedure that can produce high levels of distress for patients and their families. The paper reviews work documenting the somatic distress and mood disturbances experienced by children undergoing this procedure and points to the necessity for strategies to reduce it. Research is reviewed to support the potential benefits of a number of complementary therapies (relaxation/imagery; massage; humour therapy; expressive therapies) for the reduction of transplant-related distress. A series of pilot studies are described assessing the outcomes of various such therapies. Based on these pilot studies, massage and humour therapy emerge as most promising and are currently in the randomized clinical trial stage.

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References

Phipps S. Reduction of distress associated with paediatric bone marrow transplant: complementary health promotion interventions. Pediatric Rehabilitation 5 (4): 223-234, Oct-Dec 2002.