Energy work is often given to complement (not replace) traditional medicine and it complements any method of alternative healing.  An energy practitioner's hands focus the energy. The practitioner's hands may be placed on or off the body.

It is impossible to force energy to heal the body. That decision is in God’s hands. However, energy work may heal the body, often by accelerating the healing process. 

How is all this possible?  I really have no idea, but it works. The most important part of the treatment is the intention of the practitioner and client.  It is important to understand that everything is basically energy and every person has an energy field that is affected by life events. Some people choose to receive energy work as needed to relieve stress and fatigue through the peaceful relaxation it offers. They may choose energy work to accelerate healing and treat the pain from an injury, illness or surgery. Some people choose to receive energy work regularly to help with ongoing physical or emotional issues. Energy work is an effective complementary support to medical and psychological treatment.