A review of 42 trials suggests hypnosis, distraction and mindfulness may reduce pain during cancer procedures, though evidence is strongest for short-term effects and remains mixed for wider emotional distress.
A review of 42 randomised trials involving 2,167 children and young people suggests that approaches such as hypnosis, distraction and mindfulness can help ease pain during cancer treatment, and may reduce anxiety linked to painful procedures.
The research, led by Karin Plummer of Griffith University, brought together studies conducted in 16 countries and published from 1982 to 2025. The review, published in Pain, found that hypnosis, distraction and mind–body techniques were among the approaches associated with lower pain. For pain-related anxiety, the evidence pointed to possible benefits from hypnosis, distraction and technology-based methods, including virtual reality.
The findings come with an important qualification: most of the trials examined short-term pain during procedures such as needle insertions and lumbar punctures, rather than pain that persists or arises in other parts of a child’s treatment. The review’s authors say more research is needed across the course of cancer care. Results for fear and wider emotional distress were also less consistent than those for pain and procedure-related anxiety.
The potential value of hypnosis has been examined for decades. In a 1982 trial involving children and adolescents with cancer, researchers found that hypnosis reduced pain and anxiety during bone marrow aspiration and lumbar puncture. Non-hypnotic behavioural methods also helped in some circumstances, but were less consistently effective for pain.
Virtual reality is another area of study. A separate review of 10 trials involving 536 young people undergoing needle-related procedures reported reductions in pain and several measures of fear, anxiety and distress. Its authors cautioned that the small number of studies and differences between them limit confidence in the results, and called for larger, multi-centre trials before routine use is endorsed.
These methods are intended to complement medical treatment, not replace pain medicines or address the underlying cause of pain. The US National Cancer Institute advises parents to discuss coping strategies with their child’s care team; options may include games, music, guided imagery, hypnosis and relaxation. Its guidance also suggests seeking help from specialists such as child-life professionals or psychologists when difficult feelings persist.
Plummer and colleagues hope the evidence will inform new supportive-care approaches developed with the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. Their aim, Griffith University said, is to improve support for children and families during treatment. A wider clinical guideline for childhood cancer pain likewise treats assessment and management as a broad task, spanning medicines as well as psychological and physical support.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
