Pain is a universal experience that we all encounter at some point in our lives.
Whether it is acute or chronic, physical or emotional, pain can have a significant impact on our well-being and quality of life. But what if there was a way to reduce or manage pain without relying on medication or invasive procedures? Hypnotherapy can offer a natural and effective alternative for pain relief, for some people. As clinical hypnotherapists, we must screen our clients well, to ensure that:
- There is a reasonable chance of success.
- Hypnotherapy can be carried out safely for both the client and hypnotherapist.
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that uses hypnosis to induce a state of deep relaxation and focused attention.
In this state, the mind becomes more receptive to positive suggestions and imagery that can help change the perception and experience of pain. Hypnotherapy can also help address the psychological and emotional factors that may contribute to or worsen pain, such as stress, anxiety, fear, anger, or depression.
For what types of pain may hypnosis be helpful?
Hypnotherapy can help a variety of pain conditions, such as:
- Headaches and migraines.
- Arthritis.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Back pain.
- Cancer pain.
- Post-surgical pain.
- Childbirth pain.
- Phantom limb pain.
Effectiveness
Is there any scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for pain management?
A study by Jensen and Patterson (published in American Psychologist journal) found that hypnosis can consistently help to decrease the pain associated with a number of chronic pain problems.
The study:
- Reviewed the results of 13 previous studies that used hypnosis or self-hypnosis for chronic pain management.
- Concluded that hypnosis is an effective and safe treatment option for chronic pain.
- Found that there were positive effects beyond pain reduction, such as improved mood, sleep and quality of life.
- Suggested that hypnosis can modulate brain and spinal cord functioning in response to specific hypnotic suggestions.
How does it work?
It is thought that (under hypnosis), changes take place in the brain, including reduced activity in the regions of the brain involved in pain processing. Alongside this, there is increased activity in the brain regions involved in pain modulation.
This suggests that hypnosis can alter the way the brain responds to pain signals and create a more positive and helpful perception of pain.
What does the hypnotherapy process look like?
Hypnotherapy sessions typically involve an initial consultation where the therapist assesses the client’s pain condition, medical history, goals, and expectations.
The therapist then guides the client into a hypnotic state using various techniques, such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery.
The hypnotherapist then uses positive suggestions and imagery to help the client reduce or manage their pain. For example, the hypnotherapist may:
- Suggest that the client feels a warm or cool sensation in the painful area.
- Have them imagine being in a safe and comfortable place where they feel no pain.
- Teach the client self-hypnosis techniques that they can use on their own to cope with pain.
Conclusion
Hypnotherapy is not a magic bullet that can cure all pain. It is a complementary therapy that can work alongside other treatments and interventions. However, some people respond better than others, and an effective hypnotherapist will be able to gauge how well you are likely to respond to it.
Hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool to help people who suffer from pain. By using the power of the mind, hypnotherapy can help change the perception and experience of pain and create a more positive and hopeful outlook on life.
Further reading
Jensen, M.P. and Patterson, D.R. (2014) ‘Hypnotic Approaches for Chronic Pain Management: Clinical Implications of Recent Research Findings’, American Psychologist, 69(2), pp. 167-177.
