A system and method for employing hypnosis and other pain self-management techniques
to mitigate pain experienced by patients receiving therapeutic ICD shocks. In one
aspect, a patient is screened for hypnotic inducibility and provided with at least
one of redirection/suggestion training, training in self-hypnosis and hypnotic
inducement and direct suggestions for pain mitigation. In other aspects, an implantable
stimulation device monitors the patient for an arrhythmic event and provides an
indication that a therapeutic shock is impending. The patient can then initiate
a pain management technique prior to delivery of the shock. Indications can include
an audible tone that can help induce a hypnotic state, a tactile vibration, and/or
an electrical stimulation. In certain aspects, delivery of the shock is delayed
until the device determines that the patient has achieved an effective pain self-management
state, which can include implantee activation of certain therapies.
