Hypnosis treatment for chronic low back pain.
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a significant healthcare problem, and many individuals with CLBP remain unresponsive to available interventions. Previous research suggests that hypnosis is effective for many chronic pain conditions; however, data to support its efficacy for CLBP are outdated and have been limited primarily to case studies. This pilot study indicated that a brief, 4-session standardized self-hypnosis protocol, combined with psycho-education, significantly and substantially reduced pain intensity and pain interference. Significant session-to-session improvements were also noted on pain ratings and mood states; however, follow-up data suggest that these benefits may not have been maintained across time in this sample. These findings need to be replicated and confirmed in a larger clinical trial, which could also assess the long-term effects of this treatment.
Tan
Gabriel
G
Anesthesiology Pain Program, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA. TAN.GABRIEL@va.gov
Fukui
Tenley
T
Jensen
Mark P
MP
Thornby
John
J
Waldman
Karen L
KL
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D006990:Hypnosis / Q000379:methods*; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome