Medical hypnosis for physical complaints

What is medical hypnosis?

Medical hypnosis is a scientifically proven form of therapy that uses hypnosis to treat physical and psychological complaints. It is a gentle and effective method that achieves a deep state of relaxation and focused concentration. In this state, the subconscious becomes more accessible, allowing the body and mind to respond more effectively to suggestions that help with pain relief, stress reduction, and healing.

How does medical hypnosis work?

During a session, the therapist guides you into a relaxed state of hypnosis. This doesn't mean you're "gone" or lose control; you remain fully aware and can follow everything. In this state, positive and targeted suggestions are given that help your nervous system adapt to pain, stress, or physical complaints.

In addition, specific visualizations and imagery techniques can be used to reduce pain signals, strengthen the immune system, or accelerate healing processes. The brain has a powerful influence on the body, and hypnosis naturally utilizes this.

The science behind medical hypnosis

Scientific research shows that hypnosis has measurable effects on the brain. Neurological studies show that hypnosis influences pain processing in the brain, resulting in a weaker perception of pain signals. Hypnosis also helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, which can contribute to improved digestion, reduced stress hormones, and an overall sense of well-being.

Is medical hypnosis suitable for everyone?

Most people can experience hypnosis and benefit from its effects. However, it works best for those who are open to the method and willing to surrender to the process. Medical hypnosis is a safe and natural therapy with no side effects, making it a valuable addition to other medical or psychological treatments.

Medical hypnosis can be effective for various physical complaints, especially those with a psychological or stress-related component. Here is a comprehensive list of complaints that can be treated with hypnotherapy:

Gastrointestinal complaints (functional and chronic problems)

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn's disease (symptom relief)
• Ulcerative colitis (reducing stress-related complaints)
• Chronic constipation
• Nausea and vomiting (for example during pregnancy or chemotherapy)
• Heartburn and reflux (GORD)

Pain complaints (chronic and acute)

• Chronic pain (such as fibromyalgia, arthritis)
• Tension headaches and migraines
• Back and neck pain (for example due to stress or bad posture)
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Neuropathic pain (nerve pain)
• Cancer pain (besides medical treatment)
• Phantom pain after amputation

Skin complaints

• Eczema and psoriasis (stress-related)
• Itching (pruritus)
• Alopecia (hair loss due to stress)
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Hives (urticaria)

Sleep problems

• Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep)
• Nightmares and sleep terrors
• Teeth grinding during sleep (bruxism)
• Unexplained fatigue and sleep disorders

Breathing problems

• Hyperventilation and breathing problems due to stress
• Asthma (reducing stress-related attacks)
• Shortness of breath without medical cause

Cardiovascular diseases (stress-related)

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Palpitations (without medical cause)
• Stress-related angina pectoris

Gynecological and urological complaints

• Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
• PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
• Vaginismus and dyspareunia (pain during intercourse)
• Infertility (stress reduction and mindset)
• Overactive bladder and urinary urgency
• Chronic pelvic pain

Respiratory and ENT complaints

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Chronic cough without medical cause
• Globus sensation (lump in the throat)
• Spasmodic dysphonia (voice problems due to stress)

Unexplained physical complaints (SUPS)

• Medically unexplained pain complaints
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME)
• Dizziness without medical cause
• Functional neurological disorders (such as conversion disorder)

Medical hypnosis can be a valuable addition to regular medical care. It's important to always combine hypnotherapy with medical advice and not to consider it a replacement for necessary medical treatment.