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How Keira Changed Her Relationship With Pain: A Case Study in Chronic Abdominal Pain & Hypnotherapy

Writer: Stephanie
Stephanie
Jun 13
4 min read

When Keira contacted me, she had been living with chronic abdominal pain for eight years. Despite countless medical appointments, specialist consultations with eminent professors in London, nutrition plans, cranial osteopathy, an app‑based programme, and pain medication with difficult side effects, she still had no clear explanation for her symptoms - and no meaningful improvement.


This is a familiar story for many people experiencing chronic pain, functional abdominal pain, unexplained chronic pain, IBS-type pain, or medically unexplained symptoms. The body hurts, but the answers are missing.


Understanding Keira's Medical Background


As a Clinical Hypnotherapist, having a solid grounding in physiology, pain mechanisms, and medical conditions is essential. We began by reviewing:

  • her medical history

  • what the tests showed

  • what her doctors had concluded

  • and most importantly, what Karen felt was happening in her own body

This helped us identify patterns and create a treatment plan with a clear scope.

Keira's pain intensified at specific times of day, so I designed targeted hypnotherapy recordings she could use during those moments to calm her nervous system and reduce pain intensity.


Why Chronic Pain Can Persist Even When Tests Are Clear


Many clients with unexplained pain struggle to describe what is happening. They often recall a vague beginning, followed by gradual worsening. When we explore the “why,” we frequently uncover:

  • unresolved emotional experiences

  • trauma stored in the body

  • long‑term stress patterns

  • protective responses learned by the nervous system


Pain is not only physical. The gut–brain axis, emotional states, and past experiences can all amplify or sustain pain signals; especially in conditions like IBS, functional abdominal pain, and chronic pelvic pain.


What a Pain‑Focused Hypnotherapy Intervention Includes


A typical pain‑management hypnotherapy programme may include:

  • Pain reduction techniques to decrease intensity or shorten flare‑ups

  • Understanding the message of pain & exploring emotional influences

  • Retraining the brain to update old pain pathways

  • Managing co‑occurring symptoms such as sleep issues, anxiety, or fear

  • Trauma reprocessing when pain is linked to past events

  • Preparing for daily life changes, such as public speaking or travel

  • and more, depending on the client’s needs


Hypnotherapy for chronic abdominal pain and IBS in Horsham West Sussex and Online
Chronic Pain before Hypnotherapy


Hypnotherapy for chronic Pain: Keira's Treatment Plan


We met approximately every three weeks for six months. We could have worked more quickly, but it was important to address multiple layers of her experience.


Her personalised plan included:

  • EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) to regulate emotional spikes

  • Somatic release to process stored physical memories

  • EMDR‑informed trauma work

  • Hypnotic visualisations for pain modulation

  • Breathing techniques and self‑hypnosis for daily use


Keira's Feedback After Completing Her Treatment


Karen reported several important changes following her treatment:

  • She feels calmer and less afraid when pain appears

  • She can navigate flare‑ups with more confidence and emotional steadiness

  • Her general wellbeing and happiness have noticeably improved

  • She feels equipped with practical tools to manage both the physical and emotional aspects of pain

She shared that these shifts have made a meaningful impact on her daily life and expressed deep gratitude for the support she received throughout the process.


Hypnotherapy for Abdominal Pain Horsham West Sussex
After Hypnotherapy: From painful mornings to enjoying going places again

Hypnotherapy for Chronic Pain, IBS & Abdominal Pain in Horsham


Many people in Horsham and West Sussex seek help for:

  • chronic abdominal pain

  • IBS and functional gut disorders

  • IBD‑related discomfort

  • medically unexplained pain

  • post‑surgical pain

  • chronic pelvic pain

  • stress‑related pain patterns


Hypnotherapy offers a gentle, evidence‑informed mind–body approach that helps calm the nervous system, reduce pain intensity, and improve emotional resilience.


Frequently Asked Questions


Does hypnotherapy help with IBS pain?

Yes - gut‑directed hypnotherapy is supported by clinical research for reducing IBS symptoms, abdominal pain, and anxiety related to flare‑ups.

Can hypnotherapy help chronic pain when tests are normal?

Absolutely. Many clients experience pain without a clear medical cause. Hypnotherapy helps retrain the brain’s pain pathways and reduce emotional amplification.

How many sessions are needed?

Most people notice changes within 3–6 sessions, though complex or long‑term pain may require a longer, layered approach.

Is hypnotherapy safe alongside medical treatment?

Yes. Hypnotherapy complements medical care and does not interfere with medication or ongoing investigations. We work in collaboration with your medical team.


If You’re Living With Chronic Pain, IBS, or Unexplained Abdominal Pain

You don’t have to navigate this alone.


If you’re experiencing chronic pain, IBS, functional abdominal pain, IBD, or medically unexplained symptoms, you’re welcome to contact Eyeris Health for a free consultation.


Chronic Pain Relief with Hypnotherapy in Horsham West Sussex
Discover how Hypnotherapy and Complementary Therapies can bring relief

The Power of Holistic Therapies


At Eyeris Health, we offer a range of holistic therapies designed to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These include hypnotherapy, sophrology, reiki, and systemic constellations. Each therapy offers unique benefits and can be tailored to meet individual needs.


Hypnotherapy


Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool for change. It helps clients tap into their subconscious mind to address fears, anxieties, and limiting beliefs. Through guided relaxation, clients can explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment.


Sophrology


Sophrology combines relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and visualisation to promote well-being. It is particularly effective for managing stress and enhancing self-awareness. Clients often find it helps them feel more grounded and centred.


Reiki


Reiki is an energy healing practice that promotes relaxation and balance. It can help alleviate physical and emotional pain, allowing clients to release tension and find peace. Many clients report feeling a deep sense of calm after a session.


Systemic Constellations


Systemic constellations explore family dynamics and patterns that may be affecting an individual’s life. By bringing these patterns to light, clients can gain insight and understanding, leading to healing and resolution.



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