Hi Kreink

I have been using self hypnosis for about 15 years and, although I have not been in severe pain with this so far, I have found it helpful with my numbness and burning feelings. I have used it for childbirth and other pain over the years such as dentistry including root canal. I was taught it at a class in the uk and would recommend finding a good, accredited teacher in your area (sorry I don't know any organisations in usa but am sure you could find out on the net). I tend to use visualisation to help e.g. imagining a dial that you can turn to alter the intensity - if it won't go down turn it higher then lower, or giving it a size, shape, colour and altering those as well as direct suggestions about increased relaxation. Tapes can also be useful with visualisations, I have made some for myself but again that was after the training. If you see a hypnotist they can also give you or you can learn for yourself what are called post hypnotic suggestions so that is a suggestion e.g. for pain relief that is triggered when you say a certain word with the intent to use it for pain relief. I remember my teacher always talking about pain in terms of seeing it as a message from your subconscious and therefore of value and distinguishing between what he called 'necessary pain' eg you need to act on this now and see a dr and 'unnecessary pain' messages which you can instruct your subconscious to turn down in intensity. I have to be honest and say it hasn't always worked for me 100% in all circumstances and I don't know why that is but it has definitely worked in many and helped alleviate pain.

Sarah