Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 2002 Aug; 8(3): 138-41.

Will aromatherapy be a useful treatment strategy for people with multiple sclerosis who experience pain?

Howarth AL.

Pain Management Service, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK. amanda.howarth@chelwest.nhs.uk

This paper outlines the use of massage and aromatherapy for pain management and how it might work, concentrating specifically on patients with multiple sclerosis who have long-standing pain. The services currently offered to these patients are discussed to include the assessment procedure, the treatments undertaken and the range of essential oils used. The review procedure, and continuation of the treatments are also outlined with a brief summary of audit results being presented. Plans for future service development and research are also proposed.