Application of magic in healthcare: A scoping review.

Authors :: Lam MT
Lam HR
Chawla L
Source :: Complementary therapies in clinical practice [Complement Ther Clin Pract] 2017 Feb; Vol. 26, pp. 5-11. Date of Electronic Publication: 2016 Nov 02.
Publication Year :: 2017
Abstract: Study Design: Scoping review. Introduction: The art and science of magic traces back to ancient days. Physicians are often compared to magicians metaphorically. Nonetheless, there exist various genuine applications of magic in the healthcare setting. Purpose: To explore and summarize the literature reporting the applications of magic tricks or any derived techniques in healthcare or clinical environments. Methods: A literature search was performed on ten databases: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PEDro, Scopus, the International Index to Performing Arts, General OneFile and Newstand, to identify references related to the application of magic in healthcare. Relevant studies were charted, categorized, and summarized. Results: 29 relevant references were found, consisting of 20 peer-reviewed publications and nine popular literature articles. Five distinct applications of magic in the clinical setting were identified. The literature showed an overall lack of academic evidence. (Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)