RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Evaluation of the Effect of Reiki on Pain After Spinal Fusion

This study is investigating whether Reiki, a type of energy healing, can help people manage pain after spinal fusion surgery. Spinal fusion is an operation on the lower back. The main goal is to see if Reiki can reduce how much pain people feel, cut down on the amount of traditional painkillers they need, and generally make their recovery period more comfortable. This is important because finding effective, non-drug ways to manage pain after surgery could offer a gentler recovery experience for patients and potentially reduce reliance on strong medications. The study compares Reiki with a 'no treatment' approach to understand its specific effects.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Clinique Bizet

Enrolment target

Start

09 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

28 Jul 2026

Chirurgical Intervention

What is this study about?

This research study is about finding new ways to help people with pain after a common type of back surgery called spinal fusion. Spinal fusion is an operation where bones in the lower back are joined together to make the spine more stable. After this kind of surgery, many people experience pain, and doctors often prescribe painkillers to help.

In this study, we're looking at a gentle therapy called Reiki. Reiki is a complementary therapy where a practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above a person's body. The idea is that it helps to balance the body's energy to promote healing and reduce pain. We want to find out if having Reiki sessions after spinal fusion surgery can make a real difference in how much pain people feel and how many painkillers they need during their recovery.

The main aim is to see if Reiki can reduce pain, meaning patients might not need as many strong pain medications. We also want to understand if it can help patients feel more generally comfortable and supported as they heal from their operation. This could potentially offer a way to make recovery smoother and less reliant on drugs for pain relief.

Key takeaways

This study explores Reiki for pain after lower back (spinal fusion) surgery.
The goal is to reduce pain and the need for painkillers.
It aims to make recovery more comfortable.
Participants will be adults (18-75) having specific back surgery.
It compares Reiki to a 'no treatment' approach.
Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and scheduled to have a specific type of lower back surgery called a spinal fusion. This surgery can involve up to three levels of your spine. You also need to be covered by a social security plan, like the NHS in the UK, or be a beneficiary of such a scheme. We also ask that you're not currently taking part in another medical research study.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have nerve pain (neuropathic pain), a condition called fibromyalgia, or if you've had similar touch-based therapies (like therapeutic touch, polarity therapy, or a professional massage) in the last four weeks. The study also isn't suitable if you're unable to attend follow-up appointments or if you're under legal guardianship.

Overall, the study is designed for adults aged between 18 and 75, regardless of whether you are male or female, who are having this specific type of back surgery and don't have certain other conditions or therapies that might affect the study results.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you having spinal fusion surgery on your lower back (up to 3 levels)?
Do you not currently have nerve pain or fibromyalgia?
Have you not had hands-on therapies like professional massage in the last month?
Are you able to attend follow-up appointments?
Are you covered by a social security scheme (like the NHS)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed involvement for participants isn't fully described here, but generally, taking part in a study like this would mean you would receive either the Reiki therapy or no treatment sessions after your spinal fusion surgery. You would likely have regular checks of your pain levels and how much pain medication you are using. This might involve answering questions or completing questionnaires. There would also be follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and recovery over a certain period after your operation. The total duration of your active participation, including these assessments and any therapy, would be explained in full by the study team.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer the potential benefit of reduced pain and a more comfortable recovery after your spinal surgery, possibly lessening your need for strong painkillers, if Reiki proves effective. As Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive therapy, direct risks are generally considered low. However, as with any medical study, there's always the possibility that the therapy might not work for you, or you might be in the group that doesn't receive Reiki. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Clinique Bizet
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is spinal fusion surgery?

It's an operation on your lower back where bones in your spine are joined together to make it more stable.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle, hands-on therapy where a practitioner lightly touches or hovers their hands over your body to promote healing.

Will I definitely receive Reiki if I join?

The study compares Reiki with a 'no treatment' approach, so you might be in either group. You won't know which one until after you've joined.

Can I still take my usual pain medication?

The study aims to see if Reiki helps reduce the need for painkillers, but your medical team will manage your pain relief as usual.

How long will I be in the study?

The exact duration isn't specified here, but it would involve regular checks and follow-ups after your surgery.

How to find out more

Bouchra BENKESSOU, PM

b.benkessou@hexagone-sante-paris.fr 0033140693525 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.