The effects of hypnosis on a parkinsonian tremor: case report with polygraph/EEG recordings

Am J Clin Hypn. 1990 Oct;33(2):94-8. doi: 10.1080/00029157.1990.10402910.

Abstract

Although Parkinsonian tremors typically disappear during sleep and are reduced during relaxation periods, the effects of hypnosis on this type of movement disorder have been generally ignored. We observed a patient's severe Parkinsonian tremor under hypnosis and monitored it with EEG and EMG studies. The patient was taught self-hypnosis and performed it three to four times daily in conjunction with taking medication. The results suggest that daily sessions of self-hypnosis can be a useful therapeutic adjunct in the treatment of Parkinsonian tremors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arousal
  • Electroencephalography*
  • Electromyography*
  • Humans
  • Hypnosis / methods*
  • Male
  • Muscle Relaxation
  • Parkinson Disease / therapy*
  • Tremor / therapy*