Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of muscle relaxation and cognitive restructuring by alert hypnosis on women with common migraine who had not responded appropriately to the medication.

Method: Using a single-case study, we randomly selected 6 women with migraine from those referring to the psychiatry and psychology centres in the city Borazjan. They were assessed by a clinical interview, Measurement Scale of Pain Power, Measurement Scale of Pain Distress, Mcguil Questionnaire of Pain, and Beck’s Depression and Anxiety Inventory. We treated them after a primary evaluation (baseline) by muscle relaxation method and cognitive restructuring under alert hypnosis. Study data are displayed in charts and descriptive statistics.

Results: Findings showed that this treatment modality generally can reduce the frequency, duration of attacks, severity, and distress of the pain in migraine. We observed maximum reductions in the severity and distress of the pain. Significant improvement was noted in five out of six subjects and it even increased in the 3 months and a half of follow-up although one subject showed a slight improvement. The associated depression and anxiety with the migraine headache also showed significant reduction in all subjects.

Conclusion: Relaxation and cognitive restructuring under alert hypnosis can be effective in reducing the severity and distress of the migraine pain in the affected patients.