About | Benefits | Conditions & Treatments | Expectations | Eligibility
About
What is Therapeutic Touch?
Therapeutic Touch (TT) is a modern therapy with its origin in several ancient healing practices. It was developed in the early 1970s by the late Dora Kunz, a natural healer, and Dolores Krieger, RN Ph.D., Professor Emerita at NYU.
It is an intentionally directed process of energy exchange during which the practitioner uses his hands as a focus to facilitate the healing process. TT re-patterns the body’s energy field so that one can use the body’s own natural healing potential. There have been over 33 doctoral thesis and many research studies compiled to attest to its benefits. Some of the research was funded by the National Institute of Health.
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Benefits
- Induces a relaxation response
- Alleviates tension and anxiety
- Alters the perception of pain
- Noticeably enhances the body's natural healing process
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Conditions & Treatments
What Type of Conditions Does it Help?
Noting the above benefits, it can help ease anxiety, and accelerate the healing of wounds, fractures, and infections. It may help minimize injuries from falls, sprains, and burns and accelerate their healing.
TT can ease the aches and pains of both minor and chronic conditions. It can ease the transition from life to death by its calming effect as it decreases discomfort. TT can also be used for health maintenance.
Touch is important at all ages from the premature to the elderly for continued emotional and physical health.
Where is Therapeutic Touch used?
Therapeutic touch was the first healing modality to be taught in a fully accredited university curriculum. It is used in hospitals and colleges throughout the world. In the USA alone there are over 38,000 practitioners.
Classes are being presented through the Integrative Medicine Department at Hartford Hospital. These are held at the hospital and at Optimal Being in Canton.
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Expectations
What Can I Expect During a Session?
You will sit or lie, fully clothed, as the therapist moves her hands in smooth rhythmic motions within a few inches of the body. This process is always individualized and does not exceed 30 minutes for the actual treatment. Some of the sensations that may be experienced are changes in temperature, tingling, and relaxation.
You may not feel any changes at all during the session but that does not mean that the session was not effective. Later you may realize that you have slept better or have less discomfort. Your response is influenced by many factors including the duration and severity of your illness.
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Eligibility
Therapeutic Touch Classes offered at Hartford Hospital:
- Basic
- Intermediate
- Practice Group
- Nursing Touch Therapy Validation
For information regarding Therapeutic Touch classes offered at Hartford Hospital, or to make an appointment for a session, call Health Referral Services at 860.545.1888 or by e-mail HRS@hhchealth.org.
To learn more about Therapeutic Touch:
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