Nonpharmacological treatment of tics in Tourette syndrome adding videotape training to self-hypnosis.
OBJECTIVE
This case series examines the practicality of using a standardized method of training children in self-hypnosis (SH) methods to explore its efficiency and short-term efficacy in treating tics in patients with Tourette syndrome.


METHODS
The files of 37 children and adolescents with Tourette syndrome referred for SH training were reviewed, yielding 33 patients for analysis. As part of a protocol for SH training, all viewed a videotape series of a boy undergoing SH training for tic control. Improvement in tic control was abstracted from subjective patient report.


RESULTS
Seventy-nine percent of the patients trained in this technique experienced short-term clinical response, defined as control over the average 6-week follow-up period. Of the responders, 46% achieved tic control with SH after only 2 sessions and 96% after 3 visits. One patient required 4 visits.


CONCLUSIONS
Instruction in SH, aided by the use of videotape training, augments a protocol and probably shortens the time of training in this technique. If SH is made more accessible in this way, it will be a valuable addition to multi-disciplinary management of tic disorders in Tourette syndrome.
Lazarus
Jeffrey E
JE
Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital; daggerCase Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA. JeffLazarusMD@gmail.com
Klein
Susan K
SK
D000293:Adolescent; D001326:Autogenic Training / Q000379:methods*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006990:Hypnosis / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods*; D013404:Suggestion; D005879:Tourette Syndrome / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014743:Videotape Recording