This yielded 53 GI studies that were then reviewed in-depth. However, because of the clinical heterogeneity of these trials, we did not conduct a meta-analysis. Instead, a qualitative analysis was conducted on these studies. There is no evidence to support the efficacy of biofeedback therapy for children. The methodological shortcomings of studies reporting beneficial effects of hypnosis preclude drawing conclusions about its efficacy.
Results are mixed regarding the use of biofeedback in adults.
Return to Contents Future Research Future mind-body research needs to be better designed and implemented. They should employ randomization, use blinding where feasible, and measure outcomes that are meaningful to patients and that can be reliably assessed. Ultimately, only those studies with a control group for comparative analysis can address the question of the efficacy of mind-body therapies. A more focused research program might overcome the problem of too few studies found on too many GI conditions and variable patient populations. It is expected to be available in late spring 2001.