title: Hypnosis and chronic pain. Two contrasting case studies.
abstract: Some of the theoretical and technical problems associated with the use of hypnosis for chronic pain are discussed in the context of two similar case studies, one of which had an unsuccessful outcome. Different hypnotic strategies are discussed which depend on a careful, direct evaluation of the role of secondary gain and depression in maintaining the pain in the two patients. Specific hypnotic interventions are described, based on dissociation, imagery and the non-specific components of the hypnotic relationship. Self-hypnotic procedures are described stressing the development of mastery and self-control over pain. Differences in the kinds of hypnotic intervention that are appropriate when secondary gain or depression are central to the pain problem, compared to the more direct techniques available when they are not, are discussed.
authors.affiliation: UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway.
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Evans
mesh_terms: D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003863:Depression / Q000150:complications; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006990:Hypnosis; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D059408:Pain Management