Therapeutic Touch is a type of healing that involves the practitioner placing his or her hands in the patient’s energy field. It is based on the belief that good health requires a balanced flow of energy. Practitioners say they feel a flow of energy through the tips of their fingers and that they can sense when a person’s energy is hot or cold, active or passive, blocked or free. Therapeutic Touch can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other treatments.

A therapeutic touch session is usually short — 15 to 30 minutes. A person remains fully clothed while the therapeutic touch practitioner uses light touch and sweeping hand motions above the skin surface to assess and balance the client’s energy fields, which extend beyond the physical body. The session begins with the practitioner calming his or her own mind and bringing himself or herself into a state of compassion. The practitioner then assesses the client’s energy field, clears and mobilizes the client’s energy field and directs energy toward wholeness and balance.

The session ends with the therapeutic touch practitioner rechecking the client’s energy fields and asking the client how he or she feels. The practitioner may also discuss ways the client can use his or her newfound energy to promote wellness.

Although research on therapeutic touch is limited, some studies indicate that it reduces pain and stress in people who have cancer. Other studies show that it helps people heal wounds faster. Some people who receive therapeutic touch report feeling a refreshed spirit and a boost in their immune systems, but no studies have proved that it can help cure diseases.

Many hospitals have nurses trained in therapeutic touch, which is often offered in inpatient and outpatient settings. There are also private practitioners and schools of therapeutic touch. Some medical professionals have questioned the effectiveness of therapeutic touch, but others believe that it is safe and can be combined with other therapies.

The most well-known medical application of therapeutic touch is the treatment of patients in a hospital, in which therapeutic touch is used to comfort patients and speed their recovery. It is also used in hospices, birthing centers and home care.

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, muscles and ligaments of the spine. A chiropractor can help with a wide range of symptoms, including back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches and joint problems.

A chiropractic adjustment can reduce the pressure on nerves caused by misaligned bones, which can lead to pain and discomfort. It can also improve posture and flexibility, and decrease muscle tightness. A chiropractic treatment can be beneficial for people with fibromyalgia, arthritis and other chronic conditions. It can also improve sleep, help with weight loss, and increase healing after surgery or chemotherapy. The technique can be safely performed in combination with other treatments, such as massage therapy. Talk to your doctor about any complementary healing practices you are considering.