But in the physician's office, hypnosis brings to mind the power of healing. Hypnosis is used to treat such conditions as migraine headaches, asthma, chronic pain, diabetes, herpes, acute anxiety, hemophilia, and the nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy.
Clinical hypnosis can help people quit smoking.
The word hypnosis comes from the Greek word hypnos, which means sleep. We teach patients how to relax and use imagery to address their particular problem. Imagery helps people focus their thoughts on places and feelings that decrease anxiety and increase relaxation. According to Bobbie Walker, a licensed psychologist with Fairview's Pain Management Center, imagery helps connect the mind to the powerful healing ability of the body. Burn victims use imaging not only to help the burn feel cool and comfortable, but to reduce blistering and speed healing.