Positive Health Online

Abstract

GONSALKORALE, Department of Medicine, University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK, presents the Manchester approach to treatment of IBS.

Background

This article describes the particular approach of using hypnosis as an adjunct to treating irritable bowel syndrome, developed within the Department of Medicine at the University Hospital of South Manchester, UK, since the 1980s.

Methodology

Patients receive up to 12 sessions of hypnotherapy over a 3-month period.

Results

The majority of patients achieve marked improvement in symptoms and quality of life, an effect that is usually sustained. The therapy has a “gut-directed” framework that aims to teach patients the necessary hypnotic skills to control gut function and reduce symptoms, such as hand warmth on the abdomen and imagery. Other interventions based on particular lifestyle and psychological factors commonly found to influence symptoms are also included as appropriate for the individual patient.

Conclusion

The Manchester approach to IBS which incorporate hypnosis is clearly a very effective one.

References

Gonsalkorale WM. Gut-directed hypnotherapy: the Manchester approach for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. International Journal of Clinical & Experimental Hypnosis 54 (1): 27-50, Jan 2006.