Controversies in therapeutic touch

Abstract

One of the most puzzling areas covered under the umbrella of integrative medicine is the field of energy healing. Based on the notion of a subtle vital force which is presumed to be the source of health, many ancient healing techniques have been evolved within this paradigm, including the modern American variant called Therapeutic Touch (TT). This article reviews the history and underlying theory behind TT, and examines some of the recently developed and recently researched clinical applications. Particular emphasis is given to several important aspects of research into TT research that highlight the methodological challenges of research into energy healing, as well as the politicized atmosphere within which CAM is being assessed today. Directions for future research are suggested, and a selected bibliography of relevant research is included.