FORCE offers a range of free complementary therapies – massage, aromatherapy massage and reflexology – delivered by qualified therapists.
Complementary therapies work alongside medical treatments and can be a valuable aid to relaxation, helping promote physical and emotional wellbeing.
We have two dedicated therapy rooms at our Exeter Centre where new patients and their immediate carer can access free sessions by appointment only.
To find out more about the FORCE complementary therapies service, please call 01392 402086 or email admin@forcecancercharity.co.uk
We also offer yoga sessions for symptom relief and, when possible, acupuncture by appointment and via referral from specialist nurses for patients who have had radiotherapy for head and neck cancers.
Your therapist will talk through your options and you can decide the treatment that best suits your needs.
Massage is a hands-on treatment. The therapist manipulates muscles and other soft tissues of the body with a base oil to improve health and well-being.
Aromatherapy is similar to massage but, in addition, essential oils are used to suit individual requirements. Your therapist will advise you of the range available.
Reflexologists work on the reflexes in the feet with their thumbs and fingers, using specialised massage techniques. Clients need remove only shoes and socks, tights or stockings.
Reiki is a hands-on treatment that uses light, non-manipulative touch to guide energy through the body. Clients remain fully clothed.
When possible, our therapists visit patients on the oncology wards at the RD&E. If you would like us to see someone who can’t get to our Support Centre, please call 01392 402086 or email admin@forcecancercharity.co.uk.
Yoga, led by a specialist teacher, focuses on gentle exercises and breathing techniques to help with symptom relief while recovering from cancer. This class can help you learn what is useful for you throughout your cancer recovery and ongoing general health and wellbeing. Call 01392 403094 or email physio@forcecancercharity.co.uk for more details.
Acupuncture is offered free of charge at our Exeter Support Centre but you must make an appointment.
Patients experiencing treatment-induced hot flushes should call us on 01392 402086.
Head and neck patients need a referral from the Head and Neck Specialist Nurse, who can be contacted on 01392 402215.
Treatment can result in an unpleasant side effect known as xerostomia (dry mouth), which occurs when the salivary glands are damaged by radiation.
Symptoms may include dry mouth, difficulty chewing, swallowing, tasting or speaking, a burning feeling in the throat, cracked, sore lips, a dry, rough tongue.
Techniques similar to acupuncture were originally developed in the Far East and have been used for more than 5,000 years. Patients often notice an improved sense of wellbeing and it may also help some of the symptoms of xerostomia, fatigue, anxiety and hot flushes.
Acupuncture sessions are held in small groups and last for 60 minutes. Acupuncture needles are very fine. Treatment is generally pain-free but a tingling, dull sensation may be experienced.
You will be seated comfortably for the duration and there is no need to remove any clothing. The acupuncturist will explain the treatment and a small number of needles will be inserted into specific points on the outer ear and thumbs. These are left in position for up to 30 minutes.
Once the needles have been removed, your treatment is complete.
For xerostomia (dry mouth) and hot flushes, you will be offered six weekly appointments. These must be booked in advance.
Tuesday mornings.
MooGoo products are often recommended for cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, because these treatments can cause dry, red, irritated and sensitive skin.
We have a hand-picked selection of products available for purchase at our main Support and Information Centre in Exeter. Come in and see us to try them out or get a sample to try before you buy!
If you would like to purchase MooGoo products online then please visit their website direct.
To find out more about the FORCE complementary therapies service, please call 01392 402086 or email admin@forcecancercharity.co.uk
When possible, we also offer acupuncture sessions by appointment and via referral from specialist nurses for patients who have had radiotherapy for head and neck cancers.
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The 2024 FORCE Matters magazine is out now with the latest news on how we support local people dealing with a cancer diagnosis and how your generosity helps us to do that.
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