Reiki For Pain Relief

  • Eithne McGowanMaster of Science - MSc, Prosthetics and Orthotics, University of Strathclyde, Scotland
  • Jiya PatiraMaster's degree, Biomedical Sciences, General, St George's, University of London
  • Richa Lal MBBS, PG Anaesthesia, University of Mumbai, India

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Introduction to Reiki

How does Reiki help relieve pain?

In recent years, people have become more interested in alternatives to conventional medicine for relieving pain. Reiki offers a non-invasive and low-risk approach to managing pain by promoting relaxation and improving overall well-being without any adverse side effects. By balancing the energy flow within the body, Reiki is thought to promote the body's natural healing processes, leading to less pain and improved mobility.1,2

Through the gentle manipulation of energy, Reiki practitioners aim to alleviate painful sensations and enhance the body's ability to cope with discomfort, offering hope and relief to individuals seeking a more natural solution to their pain.2 But how effective is Reiki, and is there any science behind it? Let’s begin by learning a little more about Reiki and pain.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a Japanese holistic healing practice that channels energy through the body to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This reorganisation of energy is thought to help restore balance and harmony within the body. Through gentle touch or by hovering hands over the body, Reiki allows energy to flow through and address imbalances on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.2,3 Beyond physical ailments, Reiki is also believed to address emotional and mental health issues by promoting a sense of inner peace.

Understanding pain

Definition and types of pain

Pain is commonly defined as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. In simple terms, there are two main types of pain: acute pain and chronic pain. Acute pain typically arises suddenly and is often related to an injury or as a response to a surgical procedure, whereas chronic pain persists over time and may be caused by an underlying health condition. 

Pain can be disruptive to your daily life and overall well-being by limiting activity and disturbing sleep, leading to fatigue and reduced productivity. Chronic pain can also be emotionally taxing, often causing anxiety or depression and significantly reducing quality of life.

Challenges of conventional pain management approaches

Conventional pain management approaches, such as taking medicine, attending physiotherapy, and surgical procedures, do not always work for everyone and can come with intense side effects. Medications, such as paracetamol, may offer some temporary relief but come with risks such as dependency and side effects like headaches and stomach pain. 

Physiotherapy and surgery may provide relief for certain conditions but are not always suitable or accessible to everyone. There is now a growing recognition of the need for holistic and multidisciplinary approaches to pain management that address the complex nature of pain.

How Reiki works

Reiki's principles and philosophy

Reiki is grounded in the belief that energy flows through all living things and that disruptions or imbalances in this energy can lead to physical, emotional, and spiritual ailments. By channelling this energy, Reiki facilitates healing and restores balance within the body.

Concept of energy flow and balance in Reiki healing

According to Reiki philosophy, when the body's energy centres, known as chakras, are in harmony and energy flows freely along the body's meridians, individuals experience a state of optimal health and well-being. However, disruptions or blockages in energy flow can manifest as either physical or emotional symptoms. Reiki practitioners work to unblock this stagnant energy and restore balance, allowing the body to heal itself naturally.

What do Reiki practitioners do?

Through training and experience, Reiki practitioners learn to connect with and channel Reiki energy, allowing it to flow through their hands to their patients. Beyond energy manipulation, they provide a safe and supportive environment for people to explore their physical and emotional needs, offering gentle guidance and encouragement along their healing journey. 

Scientific evidence and studies

Summary of scientific research on Reiki and pain relief

Scientific research on Reiki and pain relief has gained attention in recent years, with studies exploring its efficacy in alleviating various types of pain, including chronic and acute pain conditions. While research is still ongoing, preliminary findings suggest that Reiki is not an effective standalone treatment for pain.4,5 

However, individuals have reported that Reiki may offer some benefits in reducing pain perception, enhancing relaxation, and improving the overall quality of life for people experiencing pain when used in combination with conventional pain management tools.6 Further research is needed to establish the effectiveness of Reiki as both a standalone and complementary treatment for pain.

Findings and limitations of existing studies

Existing scientific studies on Reiki and pain management have produced mixed findings, with some research showing positive outcomes in pain reduction and others reporting minimal or inconclusive results. One main limitation is the lack of standardisation in study design, including variations in Reiki techniques, efficacy assessment, and participant numbers.5 These limitations highlight the need for more rigorous and well-designed studies to further investigate the potential benefits of Reiki for pain relief.6

Reasons to consider trying Reiki for pain relief

Reiki sessions provide a safe and non-invasive approach to pain management, suitable for individuals of all ages.6,7 The holistic nature of Reiki is also thought to address the emotional and spiritual aspects of pain, offering a comprehensive approach to healing that supports the individual's overall health and quality of life. 

Reiki has shown promising results in supporting emotional and psychological wellbeing and helping people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.8 Moreover, Reiki could complement conventional medical treatments enhancing the overall healing process and quality of life for those seeking a more natural approach to wellness. While scientific evidence is limited, personal testimonies suggest potential benefits of Reiki for pain relief.

Downsides of using Reiki for pain relief

One of the main challenges is the lack of scientific evidence supporting Reiki's efficacy, with many studies producing mixed or inconclusive results. As a result, Reiki may not be universally effective for all individuals or pain conditions, and its outcomes may vary depending on the practitioner's skill level and the individual's receptiveness to energy healing.

Additionally, Reiki should not replace conventional medical treatments or serve as a standalone solution for pain. Instead, it should be used as part of a holistic pain management plan that integrates complementary therapies with conventional healthcare interventions such as medication. 

As with any alternative therapy, individuals considering Reiki for pain relief should consult with qualified healthcare professionals and practitioners to determine its suitability and potential benefits in their specific circumstances.

Importance of seeking qualified Reiki practitioners

A qualified practitioner will have undergone comprehensive training and certification in Reiki techniques and principles, ensuring they possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and ethical standards to provide safe and effective treatments. Qualified Reiki practitioners adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct, prioritising the well-being and best interests of their clients. They create a supportive and nurturing environment for healing, respecting the individual's autonomy and privacy throughout the treatment process. 

By choosing a qualified Reiki practitioner, you can feel more confident in the quality and professionalism of the care you will receive, maximising the potential benefits of Reiki for your health and wellbeing. 

FAQs

When should Reiki not be used?

Reiki should not be performed if you have been drinking alcohol or using drugs, as it is thought that the energy flow may be too intense to act on your body whilst you are under the influence of a stimulant. 

How often should Reiki be done?

Your Reiki practitioner will help determine the best frequency for your sessions. Typically, once a month is recommended as this is the ideal timeframe for general maintenance of energy flow. Always consult your Reiki practitioner for professional and personalised advice.9

How do you know if Reiki is working?

To determine if Reiki is working, pay attention to any physical, emotional, or mental changes you may experience after a session. Many people report feeling more relaxed, calm, and at peace after a Reiki session.

Summary

Reiki offers a holistic and non-invasive approach to pain relief, addressing well-being's physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. Its gentle techniques and focus on energy flow facilitate relaxation, stress reduction, and overall balance within the body. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, Reiki is thought to help alleviate tension-related pain and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing chronic or acute pain conditions. 

While scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, Reiki's potential to complement conventional medical treatments makes it a promising tool for pain management. As research continues to explore its potential efficacy and mechanisms, Reiki holds potential as a valuable tool in promoting pain relief and supporting holistic health practices.

References

  1. Jahantiqh F, Abdollahimohammad A, Firouzkouhi M, Ebrahiminejad V. Effects of Reiki Versus Physiotherapy on Relieving Lower Back Pain and Improving Activities Daily Living of Patients With Intervertebral Disc Hernia. J Evid Based Integr Med [Internet]. 2018 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 23:2515690X18762745. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871054/.
  2. Freitag VL, Dalmolin IS, Badke MR, Andrade AD. Benefits of Reiki in older individuals with chronic pain. Texto contexto - enferm [Internet]. 2014 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 23(4):1032–40. Available from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0104-07072014000401032&lng=en&tlng=en.
  3. Birocco N, Guillame C, Storto S, Ritorto G, Catino C, Gir N, et al. The Effects of Reiki Therapy on Pain and Anxiety in Patients Attending a Day Oncology and Infusion Services Unit. Am J Hosp Palliat Care [Internet]. 2012 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 29(4):290–4. Available from: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1049909111420859.
  4. Lee MS, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Effects of reiki in clinical practice: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials: Effects of reiki in clinical practice. International Journal of Clinical Practice [Internet]. 2008 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 62(6):947–54. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1742-1241.2008.01729.x.
  5. Ferraz GAR, Rodrigues MRK, Lima SAM, Lima MAF, Maia GL, Pilan Neto CA, et al. Is reiki or prayer effective in relieving pain during hospitalization for cesarean? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sao Paulo Med J [Internet]. 2017 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 135(2):123–32. Available from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1516-31802017000200123&lng=en&tlng=en.
  6. Demir Doğan M. The effect of reiki on pain: A meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice [Internet]. 2018 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 31:384–7. Available from: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1744388117303626.
  7. Midilli TS, Eser I. Effects of Reiki on Post-cesarean Delivery Pain, Anxiety, and Hemodynamic Parameters: A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial. Pain Management Nursing [Internet]. 2015 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 16(3):388–99. Available from: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1524904214001520.
  8. Dyer NL, Baldwin AL, Rand WL. A Large-Scale Effectiveness Trial of Reiki for Physical and Psychological Health. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 25(12):1156–62. Available from: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2019.0022.
  9. McManus DE. Reiki Is Better Than Placebo and Has Broad Potential as a Complementary Health Therapy. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med [Internet]. 2017 [cited 2024 Sep 10]; 22(4):1051–7. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871310/.

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This content is purely informational and isn’t medical guidance. It shouldn’t replace professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician regarding treatment risks and benefits. See our editorial standards for more details.

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Eithne McGowan

Master of Science - MSc, Prosthetics and Orthotics, University of Strathclyde, Scotland

Eithne is a researcher and Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist (CPO) with clinical research experience in both the UK and the EU. Her unique background allows her to delve into a wide range of scientific topics across neuroscience, pain, medicine, and health. Alongside academic writing, Eithne is advancing her medical writing skills in the commercial sector.

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