Holistic Therapies

Due to the abnormal sickle shape of some red blood cells as a result of Sickle Cell Syndrome, in a less severe 'sickling' episode, obstruction of the normal flow of blood and scraping of the walls of small blood vessels occurs, which results in severe pain and reduced oxygen transfer to tissues and organs.

Medical treatment would include prescribed orally administered drugs and an increase in fluid intake.

In the case of morre severe crisis, hospitalisation with either opiate or narcotic analgesia would be administered and the patient is often put onto intravenous antibiotics and hydration.

Kate Coleman a qualified massage therapist on the Haematology ward at the Royal Free Hospital London states that [significant] Sickle Cell episodes can be managed by the patient at home, through orally administered painkillers, increasing fluid intake. managing diet, and ensuring adequate nutrition, maybe even taking nutritional supplements.

A number of relaxation techniques can also be utilised which help lessen the risk of a crisis; these include massage.

In addition to aiding the sufferer with relaxation, massage also has the benefit of promoting blood circulation. This method of control has the benefit of being free from all adverse side effects and poses none of the risks of harmful dependency that are associated with opiate and narcotic analgesics.

The use of massage as a treatment also has psychological benefits as it helps to remove or at least lessen dependency upon drugs, which can cause depression, personality distortion, mood swings and euphoria (SCARF).

Massage and other holistic therapies, such as diet, aromatherapy and yoga exercises can bring with them a sense of responsibility, control and a positive outlook for Sickle Cell sufferers.

Holistic methods also help to promote a positive outlook on life and aid the sufferer to live a more normal lifestyle which in turn can transform the sufferer from frequent hospitalisation and reliance on drugs to a more independent state of mind.

References

SICKLE CELL SOCIETY (2002)Massage therapy in the treatment and management of sickle cell anaemia. London

(accessed 19th June 2002).

THE SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA RESEARCH FOUNDATION (SCARF 1988) A case for the use of natural holistic therapies in the treatment of sickle cell disorder, an integrated approach. London: Melville Jones (The Millennium Report).

News Line. October 2002, Volume 2, Issue 4