As the person learns to release muscle tension, the machine immediately indicates success. Biofeedback can be used to reinforce relaxation training. Once the technique is mastered, it can be practiced without the use of the machine. Visual imagery or distraction. Imagery involves concentrating on mental pictures of pleasant scenes or events or mentally repeating positive sayings to reduce pain.
Videotapes are also available to help visual imagery.
Distraction techniques focus the person's attention away from negative painful images to more positive thoughts. This technique may include watching television or a favorite movie, reading a book or listening to a book on tape, listening to music, or talking to a friend. Hypnosis can be used in two ways to reduce a person's perception of pain. Self-hypnosis is a form of relaxation training. Individual or family therapy.