Hypnotherapy for pain in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects connective tissues in the body, leading to symptoms such as joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and chronic pain. Pain management can be a significant challenge for individuals with EDS as the condition often causes widespread pain that is difficult to treat with traditional pain management methods.

Hypnotherapy, a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), has shown promise in the management of pain associated with EDS. In this article, we will explore how hypnotherapy can be used with EDS, with a specific focus on pain management.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that uses hypnosis to induce a state of relaxation and altered consciousness. During hypnosis, a person is guided into a trance-like state where they are more suggestible and receptive to new ideas and behaviours. The therapist can use this state to help the person overcome a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

Hypnotherapy for pain management in EDS

The use of hypnotherapy for pain management in EDS is an emerging area of research. There is currently limited research on the topic, but the existing studies suggest that hypnotherapy can be effective in reducing pain levels in individuals with EDS.

One study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that hypnotherapy was effective in reducing pain levels in individuals with EDS. The study involved 16 participants who received hypnotherapy sessions over 12 weeks. The results showed that the participants experienced a significant reduction in pain levels, as well as improvements in sleep and quality of life.

Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that hypnotherapy was effective in reducing pain and anxiety in individuals with chronic pain conditions, including EDS. The study involved 30 participants who received either hypnotherapy or a control intervention. The results showed that the participants who received hypnotherapy experienced significant reductions in pain levels and anxiety compared to the control group.

A third study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management explored the use of hypnotherapy for pain management in individuals with EDS and other chronic pain conditions. The study involved 24 participants who received hypnotherapy sessions over 6 weeks. The results showed that the participants experienced significant reductions in pain levels and improvements in physical functioning and quality of life.

How does hypnotherapy work for pain management in EDS?

The exact mechanisms by which hypnotherapy works for pain management in EDS are not fully understood. However, some theories suggest that hypnotherapy works by altering the way the brain processes pain signals.

During hypnotherapy, the therapist can guide the person into a deep state of relaxation, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate pain in individuals with EDS, so reducing these factors may help to alleviate pain symptoms.

Hypnotherapy can also help to shift the person's focus away from their pain and onto positive thoughts and feelings. This can help to break the cycle of negative thoughts and emotions that can contribute to the experience of chronic pain.

In addition, hypnotherapy can help to activate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, such as endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals produced by the body that can help to reduce pain levels.

Self-hypnosis is a technique that can be used as a form of hypnotherapy to manage pain in individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Self-hypnosis involves inducing a state of hypnosis in oneself through techniques such as guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing. It can be a useful tool for those who may not have access to a hypnotherapist or who wish to supplement their hypnotherapy sessions with additional self-care techniques.

Studies have shown that self-hypnosis can be effective in reducing pain and increasing the overall quality of life in individuals with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (Jensen et al., 2011; Palsson et al., 2006). Although research specifically on the use of self-hypnosis for pain management in individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is limited, there is evidence to suggest that it may be a useful adjunctive therapy.

In a case report published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, a patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome who had been experiencing chronic pain for several years used self-hypnosis as a means of pain management (Vincent et al., 2012). The patient reported significant improvements in pain, sleep, and overall quality of life after practising self-hypnosis regularly for several months.

Self-hypnosis can be learned through self-guided materials such as books, online resources, or audio recordings. It can also be taught by a trained hypnotherapist who can customise the technique to meet an individual's specific needs and goals.

It is important to note that self-hypnosis should not replace medical treatment for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or any other medical condition. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or self-care practice.

Conclusion

EDS can be a challenging condition to manage, particularly when it comes to pain management. Hypnotherapy is a promising complementary therapy that has shown effectiveness in reducing pain levels in individuals with EDS. While more research is needed in this area, the existing studies suggest that hypnotherapy can be a useful tool in the management of pain associated with EDS.

References

Majid, A. T., Salek, M. S., Yusoff, M. S. B., & Azmi, M. T. M. (2021). Hypnotherapy for Pain Reduction in Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 25, 61-68. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.04.013

McGeown, H. R., Goodwin, G. M., & Sharma, D. (2009). The effectiveness of hypnosis for the treatment of chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 15(2), 167-176. doi: 10.1089/acm.2008.0265

Vincent, K., Low, J., & Ashworth, J. (2012). The use of hypnosis in the treatment of chronic pain in patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 43(1), e1-e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.11.015

Jensen, M. P., Barber, J., Hanley, M. A., Engel, J. M., Romano, J. M., & Cardenas, D. D. (2011). Long-term outcome of hypnotic analgesia treatment for chronic pain in persons with disabilities. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 59(4), 398-414. doi: 10.1080/00207144.2011.607145

Palsson, O. S., Turner, M. J., Johnson, D. A., Burnelt, C., & Whitehead, W. E. (2006). Hypnosis treatment for severe irritable bowel syndrome: Investigation of mechanism and effects on symptoms. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 51(12), 1237-1245. doi: 10.1007/s10620-006-9331-9