Unlock Your Inner Healer
Hypnosis in Contemporary Medicine
Mayo Clin Proc. 2005;80(4):511-524
JAMES H. STEWART, MD
From the Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Fla.
Individual reprints of this article are not available. Address correspondence to James H. Stewart, MD, Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (e-mail: stewart.james@mayo.edu ).
For the full text of this study go to http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.com/inside.asp?AID=888&UID
Abstract
Hypnosis became popular as a treatment for medical conditions in the late 1700s when effective pharmaceutical and surgical treatment options were limited. To determine whether hypnosis has a role in contemporary medicine, relevant trials and a few case reports are reviewed. Despite substantial variation in techniques among the numerous reports, patients treated with hypnosis experienced substantial benefits for many different medical conditions. An expanded role for hypnosis and a larger study of techniques appear to be indicated.
Conclusion
The acceptance of hypnosis as a mode of treatment in medicine is increasing as a result of “careful, methodical, empirical work of many research pioneers.” Many important trials reviewed here have helped to establish the role of hypnosis in contemporary medicine. These trials have established the utility and efficacy of hypnosis for several medical conditions, either alone or as part of the treatment regimen. Nonetheless, skepticism may prevail and hypnosis may remain underused because of the tendency to doubt or fear the unknown. According to a recent study, health care providers changed their attitudes significantly and positively when presented with information about the use of hypnosis in medicine. Through greater awareness and acceptance of hypnosis, additional training and research can be inspired in pursuit of improved techniques and new areas of potential benefit.