ABSTRACT
Hypnosis is a highly personal experience that can be used to modulate pain perception, and improve quality of life as well as emotional regulation. In this chapter, we first offer an analysis of the most commonly accepted definition of hypnosis by supporting both phenomenological and neurophysiological evidence. We then discuss the effects of hypnosis in acute pain and surgery by outlining the benefits of hypnosedation. We then present behavioral and neuroimaging studies on the contribution of hypnosis in two chronic conditions: pain and oncology. Finally, we present a modern practice of hypnosis via virtual reality and end with a general conclusion.
