Complementary and traditional walk hand in hand to help patients

Receiving the news that you are suffering from cancer is particularly difficult to come to terms with at the best of times and although it is a source of comfort to know that effective treatments are now available to deal with this disease it can still be a difficult period for all those involved - for both patients and families.

The Alaw Unit at Ysbyty Gwynedd is central to the care that is provided for patients in the North West Wales NHS Trust's area and offers complementary therapies to patients, including aromatherapy and relaxation, on a regular basis, to complement the 'traditional' methods of tackling the disease.

A nurse on the Alaw Unit is responsible for arranging and administering the therapy and on the basis of the response that has been received it is clear that there is a great deal of demand for such complementary therapy.

A dedicated complementary therapy room is available for treatment but patients can also receive treatment on the day unit or in their room if they are inpatients. It is a free service for the patient.

Therapeutic massage:

This can ease tension, reduce pain and also help to relax the body and mind without causing pain or bruising.

Research has shown that it can make people less anxious by slowing down the pulse rate and lowering blood pressure. Tense muscles are relaxed and the mind feels less stressed. It can also help to relieve back and muscle pain.

Massage is given with the use of oils or without and each session lasts about 30 minutes, but can be longer or shorter depending on each person.

Aromatherapy:

This is the use of pleasant-smelling oils. The therapist will mix oils according to your preferences and your particular needs. They are derived from plants and have different qualities.

Some stimulate the immune system, many assist relaxation, and others can help ease muscular aches and pains while some have uplifting or energising properties.

  Consultant Medical Staff (Oncology)