ABSTRACT
In the past decade there has been a dramatic increase in (1) understanding the neurophysiological components of the pain experiences,
(2) randomized clinical trials testing the efficacy of hypnotic treatments on chronic pain, and (3) laboratory research examining
the effects of hypnosis on the neurophysiological processes implicated in pain. Work done in these areas has not only demonstrated
the efficacy of hypnosis for treating chronic pain but is beginning to shed light on neurophysiological processes that may
play a role in its effectiveness. This paper reviews a selection of published studies from these areas of research, focusing
on recent findings that have the most potential to inform both clinical work and research in this area. The paper concludes
with research and clinical recommendations for maximizing treatment efficacy based on the research findings that are available.
(2) randomized clinical trials testing the efficacy of hypnotic treatments on chronic pain, and (3) laboratory research examining
the effects of hypnosis on the neurophysiological processes implicated in pain. Work done in these areas has not only demonstrated
the efficacy of hypnosis for treating chronic pain but is beginning to shed light on neurophysiological processes that may
play a role in its effectiveness. This paper reviews a selection of published studies from these areas of research, focusing
on recent findings that have the most potential to inform both clinical work and research in this area. The paper concludes
with research and clinical recommendations for maximizing treatment efficacy based on the research findings that are available.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-8
- DOI 10.1007/s13142-011-0084-5
- Authors
- Tiara Dillworth, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 354944, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- M Elena Mendoza, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Box 356912, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Mark P Jensen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Box 356912, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Journal Translational Behavioral Medicine
- Online ISSN 1613-9860
- Print ISSN 1869-6716