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Using Hypnosis to Alleviate Pain During rTMS: A Case Report
Avicenne Bellis1, Sofia Charef, Samir Boukhrouf
1From the Clinical Research Center, EPS Ville-Evrard, Neuilly-sur-Marne, France.
The Journal of ECT
|June 25, 2025
Summary
Hypnosis can alleviate pain and anxiety during repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatments. This case study shows hypnosis improved patient comfort and tolerance, allowing for full treatment completion.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pain Management
Background:
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a common neuromodulation technique.
- Some patients experience pain or discomfort during rTMS, impacting treatment adherence.
- Hypnosis is a potential non-pharmacological intervention for pain and anxiety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of hypnosis in managing pain and anxiety during rTMS.
- To assess the impact of hypnosis on patient tolerance and adherence to rTMS treatment.
Main Methods:
- A case study involving a patient undergoing rTMS for an unspecified condition.
- Concomitant administration of Ericksonian hypnosis and self-hypnosis before rTMS sessions.
- Utilized Visual Analog Scales (VAS) to measure pain and anxiety levels before and during rTMS.
Main Results:
- Hypnosis significantly reduced pain VAS scores from 8.5 to 3.
- Hypnosis significantly reduced anxiety VAS scores from 5 to 3.
- The patient's tolerance to rTMS intensity improved, allowing for completion of the treatment program.
Conclusions:
- Combining hypnosis with rTMS effectively reduces pain and anxiety associated with the procedure.
- Hypnosis enhances patient tolerance to rTMS, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes.
- Hypnosis may potentiate the effects of rTMS, warranting further investigation.
