Myeloma and Reiki: How Energy Healing Can Support Patients

When a diagnosis of myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells that live in bone marrow and produce antibodies lands on a patient’s doorstep, the treatment journey can feel like an endless marathon of chemo, stem‑cell transplants, and constant medical appointments. While life‑saving, those conventional options often bring fatigue, pain, and emotional turbulence. That's where many turn to complementary approaches-one of the most talked‑about being Reiki a Japanese technique that channels universal life energy (known as Qi) through the practitioner’s hands to promote balance and relaxation. Below we unpack what the science says, how it can fit into a myeloma care plan, and practical steps to make the most of this gentle, non‑invasive therapy.

Understanding Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma accounts for roughly 10% of all blood‑cancer cases worldwide. In 2025, the National Cancer Institute estimates about 35,000 new diagnoses in the United States alone, with a median age of 69. The disease originates from malignant plasma cells that crowd out healthy marrow, leading to bone lesions, anemia, kidney problems, and heightened infection risk.

Standard treatment regimes typically combine:

• High‑dose chemotherapy (e.g., bortezomib, lenalidomide)
• Targeted immunotherapy such as monoclonal antibodies
• Autologous stem‑cell transplant for eligible patients

These interventions dramatically improve survival-five‑year survival now hovers around 55%-but they also generate intense side‑effects. That reality fuels interest in supportive therapies that can ease pain, boost mood, and maybe even aid the immune system.

What Is Reiki?

Reiki, which means “spiritual energy” in Japanese, was founded by Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. Practitioners believe that by placing their hands lightly on or just above the body, they can facilitate the flow of Qi the vital life force that circulates through all living things. When Qi moves freely, the body’s self‑healing mechanisms are said to work more efficiently.

Sessions typically last 30‑60 minutes, are fully non‑invasive, and require no special equipment. The practitioner may follow a standard hand‑position sequence or adapt it based on the client’s needs. Importantly, Reiki is classified as a complementary therapy-it does not replace conventional medical treatment.

Why Myeloma Patients Consider Reiki

Patients report several areas where Reiki feels beneficial:

• Stress reduction: Gentle hand‑placement triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering cortisol and heart rate.
• Pain management: Some trials note a modest drop in visual‑analog pain scores after a series of Reiki sessions.
• Fatigue relief: A 2023 pilot study found that patients receiving Reiki alongside chemotherapy reported less perceived fatigue.
• Emotional support: The calming environment can improve mood, which correlates with better adherence to treatment.
• Immune modulation: Early lab work suggests Reiki might influence cytokine levels, though findings are preliminary.

While we’re not claiming Reiki cures myeloma, these quality‑of‑life boosts can make a grueling treatment schedule more bearable.

Evidence Snapshot: What Research Says

Scientific scrutiny of Reiki is still evolving. A 2022 systematic review in Supportive Care in Cancer examined 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving cancer patients of various types, including a small myeloma cohort (n=38). The review concluded:

1. Reiki consistently lowered self‑reported anxiety scores (average reduction of 1.2 on a 10‑point scale).
2. Pain scores improved modestly in 8 of 12 trials, though effect sizes were small.
3. Evidence for immune changes (e.g., increased NK‑cell activity) existed but was not robust enough for clinical recommendation.

Another 2024 phase‑II study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center specifically tracked myeloma patients receiving Reiki twice weekly during induction therapy. Over six weeks, the Reiki group showed a 15% reduction in fatigue severity compared to controls, with no adverse events reported.

Bottom line: the research signal is positive for symptom relief, but larger, disease‑specific trials are still needed.

Safety, Interactions, and Professional Guidelines

Reiki is regarded as low‑risk. The primary safety concern is patients using it as a substitute for proven medical care. Most oncologists advise an "add‑on" approach: keep chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and regular lab monitoring untouched, while using Reiki as an adjunct.

Key guidelines to follow:

• Always inform your oncology team before starting any new complementary therapy.
• Choose a practitioner who has completed a recognized Reiki certification (e.g., International Association of Reiki Practitioners).
• Avoid Reiki over open surgical sites or active infections without medical clearance.

When applied responsibly, Reiki can coexist peacefully with standard myeloma treatment plans.

Finding a Qualified Reiki Practitioner

Not every hand‑holder is created equal. Here’s a quick vetting checklist:

1. Credentials: Look for Level II or III training and membership in a reputable association.
2. Cancer experience: Ask whether they have worked with oncology patients before.
3. References: Request testimonials from other myeloma or blood‑cancer patients.
4. Setting: A quiet, clean space with proper sanitation is a must.
5. Insurance: Some plans cover Reiki under "complementary health services"-check your benefits.

Many hospitals now host integrative medicine clinics where licensed Reiki therapists collaborate with oncologists, providing a convenient, vetted environment.

Integrating Reiki Into Your Myeloma Care Plan

Here’s a step‑by‑step roadmap you can discuss with your care team:

1. Consult your oncologist about the intention-to ease pain, reduce anxiety, etc.
2. Identify a practitioner using the checklist above.
3. Schedule sessions around chemo dates-many patients prefer Reiki on rest days to maximize recovery.
4. Track outcomes with a simple log: note session date, duration, how you felt, pain level, and any side‑effects.
5. Review with your doctor every 4‑6 weeks to ensure no unexpected interactions.

Consistency matters. Most studies used 6‑12 sessions over a month to see measurable benefits.

DIY Reiki: Self‑Practice Tips

Even if you can’t see a practitioner every week, you can harness Reiki’s calming vibe on your own:

• Hand‑position meditation: Sit comfortably, place your hands on your thighs, palms up, and breathe deeply for 5‑10 minutes.
• Visualization: Imagine a warm, golden light flowing from your hands into areas of discomfort.
• Grounding exercises: Before each session, walk barefoot on grass or soil for a few minutes to connect with Earth energy.

Self‑Reiki isn’t a replacement for professional sessions, but it can add an extra layer of relaxation on busy treatment days.

Quick Comparative Snapshot: Reiki vs. Other Supportive Therapies

Checklist Before Your First Reiki Session

• Confirm with oncologist that Reiki is approved as a complementary therapy.
• Verify practitioner’s certification and cancer‑care experience.
• Bring a list of current medications and recent lab values.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy arm movement.
• Plan to drink water afterward to stay hydrated.
• Use a journal to note mood, pain, and any new sensations post‑session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bottom Line

For myeloma patients, Reiki for myeloma isn’t a miracle cure, but mounting evidence suggests it can ease anxiety, lower pain scores, and reduce fatigue-issues that often dominate the cancer journey. By choosing a certified practitioner, coordinating with your oncology team, and tracking outcomes, you can safely weave Reiki into a holistic care plan that respects both medical rigor and the body’s subtle energy needs.

Remember, the most powerful medicine is a partnership: modern oncology’s life‑saving tools plus the gentle, calming presence of energy healing. When used together, they give patients a fuller, more humane experience of fighting myeloma.