A whole new world of healing: exploring medical hypnotherapy for pediatric patients: A review

Vanessa Bastek, Michel van Vliet*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    1 Citation (Scopus)
    65 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    This narrative review aims to unravel the potential of medical hypnotherapy for the treatment of children with a variety of diseases and symptoms. Going beyond its history and assumed neurophysiology, the chances of success for hypnotherapy will be outlined per pediatric speciality, accentuated by clinical research and experiences. Future implications and recommendations are given on extracting the positive effects of medical hypnotherapy for all pediatricians. Conclusion: Medical hypnotherapy is an effective treatment for children with specified conditions such as abdominal pain or headache. Studies suggest effectiveness for other pediatric disciplines, from the first line up to third line of care. In a time in which health is defined as 'a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being’, hypnotherapy stays an underrated treatment option for children. It is a unique mind–body treatment, which true potential still needs to be unraveled. What is Known: • Mind–body health techniques become a more relevant and accepted part of treatment in pediatric patients. • Medical hypnotherapy is an effective treatment for children with specified conditions such as functional abdominal pain. What is New: • Studies suggest the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in a high variety of pediatric symptoms and disease. • Hypnotherapy is a unique mind–body treatment which potential goes far beyond its current utilization.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)3021-3032
    Number of pages12
    JournalEuropean Journal of Pediatrics
    Volume182
    Issue number7
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jul-2023

    Keywords

    • Children
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Medical hypnotherapy
    • Pediatrics
    • Treatment

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'A whole new world of healing: exploring medical hypnotherapy for pediatric patients: A review'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this