A Case Study of Hypnosis Enhanced Cognitive Therapy for Pain in a Ventilator Dependent Patient during Inpatient Rehabilitation for Spinal Cord Injury

J. Clin. Med., 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134539 · Published: July 7, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Alternative Medicine Pain Management

Simple Explanation

This case study explores using hypnosis-enhanced cognitive therapy (HYP-CT) to help a patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI) manage pain while on a ventilator. The patient, a 54-year-old man, received four HYP-CT sessions during inpatient rehabilitation. The intervention aimed to reduce pain catastrophizing, increase self-efficacy, and automate cognitive restructuring. The study found that the patient reported immediate pain reduction after each session, increased self-efficacy and pain acceptance, and was able to discontinue opioid pain medications during treatment.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

A 54-year-old male with C2 AIS A SCI requiring mechanical ventilation

Evidence Level

Case Study

Key Findings

1
The participant reported immediate reductions in pain intensity following each intervention session.
2
Overall, he reported increases in self-efﬁcacy and pain acceptance.
3
During treatment, he discontinued opioid pain medications and reported actively using intervention strategies.

Research Summary

This case study describes the adaptation and implementation of hypnotic cognitive therapy (HYP-CT) intervention for early SCI pain in the context of mechanical ventilation dependence and weaning. The participant reported immediate reductions in pain intensity following each intervention session. Overall, he reported increases in self-efﬁcacy and pain acceptance. Our results support the potential for early, hypnotic cognitive therapy for individuals with SCI experiencing pain or distress while dependent on mechanical ventilation.

Practical Implications

Early Intervention Potential

Early introduction of HYP-CT may reduce the negative impact of pain in vulnerable SCI patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

Accessibility of Psychological Support

HYP-CT can be adapted for individuals with limited verbal communication, increasing accessibility to psychological pain treatment.

Non-pharmacological Alternative

HYP-CT offers a non-pharmacological approach to pain management, potentially reducing reliance on opioids and their side effects.

Study Limitations

1
Single case study limits generalizability.
2
Limited verbal collaboration during initial sessions due to mechanical ventilation.
3
Participant reported barriers to self-hypnosis practice due to busy schedule and limited access to audio devices.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury