How big a problem is chronic pain?

Chronic pain has been linked to numerous physical and mental conditions, and contributes to high health care costs and lost productivity. (1)

Chronic pain, one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. (2)

It is estimated that between at least 20% and in some sub-groups 40% of people are experiencing chronic pain at any given time.

This is linked to:
 - restrictions in mobility and daily activities (3,4),
 - dependence on opioids (5),
 - anxiety and depression (3),
 - and poor perceived health or reduced quality of life 

Chronic pain is a huge problem. In the USA alone chronic pain contributes to an estimated $560 billion each year in direct medical costs, lost productivity, and disability programs.

Despite an abundance of pain killers on the market, and a wide variety of physical therapies, chronic pain continues to be the experience for hundreds of millions of people. Plus, it's incidence is on the rise. (6)

Is there...

Hypnosis is a tool that offers considerable leverage in changing behaviours and experiences related to pain. (1)

We believe that a clear understanding of the nature of pain, and an awareness of the evidence that hypnotic techniques can help, is an excellent step towards freedom from unnecessary suffering. It helps provide a sense of control. It enables you to take responsibility for your well-being.

Tales of seemingly miraculous relief of pain have been associated with hypnosis from antiquity to the present time. 

A meta-analysis of controlled trials of hypnotic analgesia indicates that hypnosis can provide significant relief for 75% of the population. (2)

The effect is largest for those who are highly suggestible, but is also relatively large for moderately suggestible people. 

Because hypnotic pain control includes a placebo element, almost everyone can experience a reduction in pain through suggestive techniques.

Pain has a 'sensory / physical component', and an...