Complimentary therapies – time to open our minds?

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder associated with significant a burden of illness and high healthcare utilisation. Management can be difficult and treatment often unrewarding. Public awareness and usage of complementary therapies is increasing; their use in the setting of IBS is attractive but unclear.

Methods: We evaluated the effects of complementary therapies on symptoms in outpatients with IBS over a 3 month period. 12 patients with IBS attending gastrointestinal outpatient clinics were recruited. In addition to conventional therapies 5 half hour sessions of complementary therapies (Indian head massage or reflexology) were administered over 5 weeks by professionally qualified therapists.

Results: Patients completed 2 structured questionnaires (one immediately prior and the second four weeks following completion of the study). Symptom severity decreased significantly (P<0.01) while general feeling of well-being improved significantly (P<0.01) following the study. 35% of patients reported that the treatment helped them understand the cause of their disorder. 96% of patients indicated that they liked the treatment they received and would take the opportunity to avail of treatment again.

Conclusions: This study suggests a benefit from complementary therapies for patients with IBS and should be considered by physicians as an adjunct to conventional treatment modalities.