Hypnotherapy for children with functional abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome
Abdominal pain is common in children. In 90% of cases, no underlying disease is found, yet symptoms persist and often interfere with daily life. General practitioners (GPs) usually provide education and reassurance, but many children continue to experience complaints even after one year. In secondary care, hypnotherapy is already used as a home-based treatment. Children presenting to GPs are generally younger and have milder complaints than those referred to hospital care, which could influence the outcomes. This thesis by Ilse Ganzevoort investigated whether hypnotherapy can be (cost-)effective and feasible in primary care.
Interviews revealed that hypnotherapy is sometimes seen as vague. Acceptance depends on views on abdominal pain, the treatment setting, and societal factors such as stigma, cost, and evidence. A group of children, parents and GPs see hypnotherapy as a realistic treatment option in primary care. In a randomised controlled trial, hypnotherapy in addition to usual care was compared with usual care alone. Children receiving hypnotherapy experienced quicker relief of symptoms, greater pain reductions and fell asleep more easily. Additionally, fewer GP visits or additional healthcare elsewhere resulted in lower costs.
While hypnotherapy seems to be a valuable addition to primary care, it is not suitable for every child as individual experiences varied. A more personalised approach, with short and appealing exercises offered via a website or app, may enhance engagement, adherence and treatment effects. To facilitate implementation in routine practice, a practical toolkit could help GPs introduce and explain this treatment clearly to children and parents.