Chronic pain conditions can have a detrimental impact on both the body and mind, affecting emotional, cognitive, behavioural and physiological reactions. Chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, endometriosis and symptoms of long Covid are exacerbated when we experience stress and anxiety, due to the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones such as cortisol, which stimulate nerve fibres and therefore heighten pain messages.
 

Hypnotherapy can help to manage any fear and anxiety that you may have relating to the pain. By helping your nervous system to relax in order for it to become less reactive to the pain, it can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Shift your focus to the more positive things
• Relax your nervous system
• Improve your sleep cycle
• Improve your ability to cope with life’s challenges

Hypnotherapy for chronic pain involves using hypnosis as a therapeutic tool to help manage and alleviate pain. While the exact mechanisms aren't fully understood, it is believed that hypnotherapy can influence the perception of pain and the way the brain processes pain signals. Numerous studies including a large meta-analysis of the impact of hypnosis on treating chronic pain found that “hypnosis interventions consistently produce significant decreases in pain associated with a variety of chronic pain problems” (Mindset Health, 2024), (Elkins et al., 2007).

Here are some ways in which hypnotherapy may work for chronic pain:
 

Altering Perception of Pain:
Hypnotherapy can help change perception of pain. By entering a relaxed state, individuals may become more open to suggestion, allowing the therapist to suggest alternative, less painful perceptions or sensations. Chronic pain often leads to increased tension and stress, which can exacerbate the perception of pain. Hypnotherapy aims to induce a state of deep relaxation, reducing overall stress levels and promoting a sense of calm. This relaxation can help manage pain and improve overall well-being.

Modifying Responses to Pain:
Hypnotherapy can help develop coping mechanisms and modify emotional and behavioural responses to pain. This may involve changing negative thought patterns, reducing anxiety related to pain, and promoting a more positive mindset.

Enhancing Mind-Body Connection:
Hypnotherapy often involves focusing on the mind-body connection. By bringing awareness to the connection between thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, individuals may gain better control over their response to pain.

Addressing Underlying Issues:
Chronic pain can sometimes be linked to emotional or psychological factors. Hypnotherapy allows individuals to explore and address any underlying emotional issues that may be contributing to their pain. Hypnotherapists may teach individuals self-hypnosis and other pain management techniques that they can use independently. This empowers individuals to take an active role in  managing their pain.

Please note that if you are experiencing pain, before considering hypnotherapy it's advised to consult with a medical professional / GP to ensure that the chosen approach aligns with individual needs and is integrated into a well-rounded treatment plan.

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References:
Elkins, G., Jensen, M. P., & Patterson, D. R. (2007). Hypnotherapy for the management of chronic pain. The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis, 55(3), 275–287. https://doi.org / 10.1080/00207140701338621
MindsetHealth.com. Accessed 30/03/2024

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