Perhaps even the use of one of the electrical devices designed to stimulate acupuncture points would be a safer substitute for more risky behaviors. Rather than seeking an alternative route to reward, eliminating reward can be an effective means of terminating unwanted behaviors. In addictions treatment, drugs are sometimes used to block the effects of drugs that are being abused. Naltrexone, an opiate blocking agent, has been used to treat opiate addiction. More recently it has been found useful in reducing alcohol craving as well.
Naltrexone can also interfere with the effects of the endogenous opiates or endorphins.
Theoretically, this might also block the reinforcement of self-mutilation. There are studies underway examining this approach. Several years ago, I treated a patient with naltrexone who had a particularly dangerous and stubborn form of self-mutilation. The results were dramatic. She stopped all self-injury for an entire year while taking the drug.