Managing Muscular Dystrophy Pain

Question
I HAVE A FORM OF MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY, A GENETIC DISEASE CALLED CHARCOT-MARIE-TOOTH WHICH CAUSES ME SEVERE PAIN. I'VE TRIED, UNSUCCESSFULLY, ALL KINDS OF PAIN MEDICATION, AND WAS FINALLY GIVEN A MORPHINE IMPLANT, BUT STILL HAVE A LOT OF PAIN. COULD HYPNOTHERAPY HELP ME?

Answer
The questions from readers this month deal with hypnosis and pain management. But before I answer specific questions about this subject, I feel it is important to remind my readers that pain is a natural and necessary method the body uses to let us know something is wrong. So, first of all, it is important to have any pain checked by a doctor before using hypnosis. This is to rule out any physical problem, or to inform the client of some issue or condition they might be unaware of. There are many hypnotherapists, by the way, who actually specialize in pain management. You may find one in your own geographical area. If not, check my FavLinks. There are several directories of qualified hypnotherapists across the country. A person can be programmed for alleviation of pain, control of emotions, ability to take in nourishment, and to respond to treatment. Special cues may be given for use in controlling pain, when discomfort becomes particularly intense. Often the hypnotherapist will make a tape of a session, or will provide their own tape, which can be used to reinforce the suggestions until they become more automatic. Before long a patient can immediately experience the relief in just a few seconds. Hypnotic methods for achieving pain relief are numerous. The choice would depend upon the condition and personality of the client. Like with any hypnosis, attitude is a major factor--it is important that the patient accept that relief is possible.