Treating children with therapeutic and healing touch

Pediatr Ann. 2004 Apr;33(4):248-52. doi: 10.3928/0090-4481-20040401-11.

Abstract

HT and TT are unique touch techniques with origins in the nursing profession. They are widely available in pediatric hospitals and often are used as adjunct therapies to decrease stress, anxiety, and pain. Practitioners, as well as patients, may notice improved sense of well-being during and after treatments. Additional research is needed to determine the mechanisms by which these effects occur, the optimal duration and frequency of treatments, factors predictive of treatment response, and the overall costs and benefits of including TT and HT in treatment in addition to traditional therapies. These therapies are safe and readily available.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Welfare*
  • Holistic Health*
  • Humans
  • Pain / nursing
  • Pain Management*
  • Relaxation Therapy
  • Stress, Psychological / nursing
  • Therapeutic Touch* / methods
  • Therapeutic Touch* / nursing
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome