Hypnotic relaxation results in elevated thresholds of sensory detection but not of pain detection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Many studies show an effectiveness of hypnotic analgesia. It has been discussed whether the analgesic effect is mainly caused by the relaxation that is concomitant to hypnosis. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of hypnotic relaxation suggestion on different somatosensory detection and pain thresholds.

Methods

Quantitative sensory testing (QST) measurements were performed before and during hypnosis in twenty-three healthy subjects on the dorsum of the right hand. Paired t-test was used to compare threshold changes. The influence of hypnotic susceptibility was evaluated by calculating correlation coefficients for threshold changes and hypnotic susceptibility (Harvard group scale).

Results

During hypnosis significantly changed somatosensory thres

SUBMITTER: Kramer S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4320636 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature