Reiki
Reiki is a complementary therapy sometimes used by people with MS.
Reiki was developed in Japan in the mid 1800s. It's said to direct healing energy into the body, to rebalance energy and activate the body’s own healing processes. To do this, the reiki practitioner holds their hands in various places above or on your body.
Reiki and MS
There's been very little published research into reiki and MS. Some surveys of people with other conditions suggest it might help some people with fatigue, mood, pain, anxiety and sleep.
Reiki is generally well tolerated. Practitioners sometimes say it should be used with caution if you have diabetes or a pacemaker.
Speak to your GP or MS team if you're thinking of trying it.
Reiki in the UK
Reiki isn’t regulated by law and practitioners aren’t required to have any specific qualifications.
Reiki practitioners who follow certain standards can register with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).
There are lots of holistic treatments which can help to manage MS. For more information, read our two-part explainer with Dr Agne Straukiene.
