Toothill's Phoenix doctor's practice is broadening the range of health care available by making space at the surgery available to complementary therapists.

InterActions, which brings together a range of therapists, has come to an agreement with the practice to offer treatments like Indian head massage, reflexology, nutrition and kinesiology, chiropody and Reiki.

Practice partner Dr Peter Swinyard said it was becoming more usual for doctors to make agreements with therapists to offer complementary treatments. "We welcome InterActions into the practice. The practitioners are properly trained, reputable and most importantly, they know their limits and will advise patients to see their GP if appropriate.

"We won't be referring patients to the therapists, but we will make them aware that there are alternatives available. I think a lot of people will gain great benefit from the relaxation that the complementary therapies bring about."

Jane Child of InterActions commented, "a high proportion of illness is related to stress or dis-ease. Therapists offer appointments of half an hour to an hour and a half which aim to reduce stress."

She said different therapies suit different people, from reflexology, an ancient form of foot massage which stimulates nerve endings and helps ease tension, to kinesiology which analyses dietary sensitivity to Reiki, which induces deep relaxation.

Reiki practitioner Fred Taylor said, "people are more accepting of complementary therapy as an alternative and we're very pleased to be working with a GP who accepts there are a range of ways to achieve health and well being."

Unfortunately the therapies are not available on the NHS; thirty minute sessions cost from £10. To find out more, pick up a leaflet at Phoenix surgery at Toothill Village Centre or telephone 01793 600440