Somatization of dissociated traumatic memories in a case of reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

Abstract

In this single case report, I examine the treatment of reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) with hypnosis and ego-state therapy in a subject with a dissociative disorder. RSD is an unusual, debilitating, chronic pain syndrome with a usually poor outcome. The subject achieved temporary symptomatic relief using hypnosis and auto-hypnotic pain-management techniques. Eventually, she achieved permanent relief of RSD symptoms that continued over a two-year follow-up period. She achieved this permanent relief through a process of psychologically integrating physical functions that she experienced as specific to several dissociated ego states. This case illustrates the role of metaphor and imaginative symbolism in constituting a physical condition. It also illustrates how imaginative transformation of the symbolic imagery can induce psychological and physical change.

• Authors: M J Gainer
• Journal: The American journal of clinical hypnosis (Am J Clin Hypn) Vol. 36 Issue 2 Pg. 124-31 (Oct 1993) ISSN: 0002-9157 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8259764 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Adaptation, Psychological
• Age of Onset
• Autosuggestion
• Child
• Child Abuse, Sexual (psychology)
• Dissociative Disorders (psychology, therapy)
• Ego
• Female
• Humans
• Hypnosis
• Imagination
• Memory
• Middle Aged
• Pain (psychology)
• Pain Management
• Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (psychology, therapy)