Case Study: Hypnotherapy for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Relief
Meet Jane: Living with Fibromyalgia and Daily Pain
Jane, a woman in her mid-thirties, had been living with fibromyalgia for over 11 years. She was managing her condition with several daily doses of painkillers but wanted to reduce her reliance on medication and explore more natural pain relief options.
Understanding Chronic Pain and Hypnosis
Before beginning any hypnosis work, we discussed the importance of using hypnotherapy only for chronic pain that has a clear, diagnosed cause. In Jane’s case, her condition was well-documented and her GP was aware she was exploring additional approaches.
We explored how pain isn’t only about nerve signals — it’s also shaped by how the brain interprets those signals. I used a simple exercise to illustrate this.
Jane imagined being touched on the shoulder:
First by me (a neutral interaction)
Then by someone she loved
Finally, by a stranger
Although the same nerves would fire in each scenario, the emotional context altered the sensation dramatically. This helped Jane understand that her mind plays a key role in how pain is felt.
Using Hypnosis to Reframe Pain Signals
Once Jane was in a deep state of hypnosis, I asked her to assign a colour to her chronic pain — a colour that represented how it felt to her. Then I introduced a visualisation of a healing “magic lotion”, assigned a different, soothing colour.
We repeated a cycle of applying this lotion to each area of discomfort, watching as the colour of pain faded or blended away. With each repetition, the pain visualisation diminished, and Jane reported a sense of lightness and comfort returning.
To support lasting change, I embedded a suggestion that Jane had unlimited access to this lotion, and in time, her subconscious mind would learn to apply it automatically — no conscious effort needed.
Safe, Self-Directed Pain Relief
Importantly, I emphasised that this hypnotic technique would only affect her chronic, ongoing pain. Any new pain — which might indicate a new issue requiring medical attention — would still be clearly felt.
Jane was gently brought out of the trance with a sense of calm and empowerment.
Reduced Medication and Renewed Confidence
Two months after the session, Jane shared a powerful update:
“I’ve gone from taking painkillers several times a day to just two or three times a week.”
She felt more in control of her pain, less dependent on medication, and more hopeful about managing her fibromyalgia in the long term.
Final Note
Reducing pain medication should always be done under medical supervision. Hypnotherapy can support your goals, but any changes to medication must be discussed with your doctor to avoid withdrawal symptoms or unmanaged pain.