Medical hypnosis for migraine management: A systematic review
Abstract
Background: Migraine, a highly prevalent and disabling condition affecting over one billion people worldwide, poses significant socio-economic challenges, including reduced quality of life, impaired mental health, and decreased productivity. While pharmacological treatments exist, their limitations drive interest in complementary approaches such as medical hypnosis, proven effective in chronic pain management. This systematic review, registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024509302), evaluates the scientific evidence supporting hypnosis for migraine treatment.
Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Reviews, and PsycINFO. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled or quasi-experimental studies on adult migraine sufferers using hypnosis as a standalone intervention.
Results: Nine studies involving 406 participants were analyzed, though a meta-analysis was precluded by the heterogeneity of study designs, populations, and outcome measures. Control conditions varied, including standard care and medication, while outcomes assessed ranged from migraine frequency and severity to psychological factors and medication use. The included studies employed two primary hypnosis techniques: to enhance internal resources and mental imagery, with some combining both. Results consistently demonstrated hypnosis's effectiveness in reducing migraine symptoms, often outperforming other non-pharmacological interventions…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 406 participants or records.
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