Hypnosis in Pain Management

One issue that continues to face medicine is the lack of trust in innovative procedures, even those which have proven effective in practice. Without application of these procedures, though, there is little opportunity for the advancement and evolution of medicine. According to clinical and experimental research, hypnosis is very effective at pain management. Yet, despite the visible evidence, the techniques are still not used to a great degree. The phenomenon of hypnosis is difficult for some to accept because it is defined in psychological rather than physiological terms. The process involves the induction of a trancelike state which is characterized by extreme relaxation, focused attention, and heightened susceptibility to suggestion. The two most common applications of hypnosis to pain reduction are hypnoanalgesia (the use of hypnosis to decrease sensitivity to pain) and hypnoanesthesia (the use of hypnosis to numb sensation of pain). For both conditions, the most important factor is the patient1s ability to focus attention. Research into psychological and physiological mechanisms supports the idea that the use of attention is what gives the mind power over the body. The acceptance of hypnosis into mainstream treatment could have profound effects on the practice of medicine. It will permit the patient to get involved in the healing process and to take control of his or her own health.