Nursing

Biography

Biography: Susan Bendersky Sacks

Abstract

Chronic pain is the most common cause of long term disability in the United States, and effects over 1.5 billion people worldwide. Possible complications and co-morbidities include major depressive disorder, suicide, and unintentional opioid overdose death. Because chronic pain may be unresolved by conventional medical treatment, many individuals seek relief from complementary and alternative medicine treatments. The National Institute of Health recognizes hypnosis as a complementary health approach to manage chronic pain, and most insurance companies provide partial reimbursement.  Research with controlled trials over the last 30 years have confirmed that hypnosis treatments are effective to reduce daily pain intensity for all types of chronic pain, including neuropathic, nociceptive and psychogenic pain. There are over 100 years of scientific literature to support the safety and effectiveness of hypnosis, with an average of 150 articles published yearly. Hypnosis is considered a treatment as well as a state; it is described as a self-induced state of altered perception and inward absorption achieved by heightened attention and concentration. Experts believe that in this altered state, the mind holds back its’ critical and analytical tendencies, permitting cognitive flexibility, receptivity, and acceptance of therapeutic suggestions.  Researchers have discovered that hypnotic ability is not always innate, but can be learned and enhanced through practice. This presentation will include a description of current research, mechanism of action, the hypnotic procedure and experience, examples of application, number of sessions, duration of benefits, predictors of responsivity, contraindications and precautions, informed consent, training and certification opportunities and requirements.