MAY 2004, VOLUME 32, NUMBER 1, Abstract 7
Hypnosis in the Management of Acute and Persistent Pain: Support from the Recent Literature
Penelope W. Svensson, Ipswich Hospital
Despite conclusive evidence for the efficacy of clinical hypnosis in the management of both acute and persistent (chronic) pain, hypnosis is under-utilised in these applications. The present literature review was undertaken with the aim of providing practitioners with the necessary evidence to support their clinical practice in this important area. The contribution of the elements of the hypnotic induction – suggestion, relaxation, imagery and distraction – are examined and contrasted with similar elements in a cognitive-behavioural intervention. The literature on the neurophysiology of hypnotic pain modulation is summarized. Four of the major areas where hypnosis is of particular efficacy – surgery, childbirth, burns, and cancer – are specifically discussed.