Imagination Found To Reduce Pain in Children New research published in the journal Pain indicates that guided imagery can significantly reduce post-operative pain and anxiety among children. The study involved 73 children between the ages of 7 and 12 who were scheduled to have their tonsil and/or adenoids out. Prior to surgery, the children were divided into two groups, with one group given video and audiotapes three weeks beforehand that taught them deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and guided imagery techniques, which the children then practiced "between two and eight times prior to surgery, and repeated it 1 to 4 hours after surgery and in the home 22 to 24 hours after leaving the hospital." Though both groups were also given painkillers, the children in the guided imagery "reported significantly less pain and anxiety after listening to the audiotape immediately after surgery," and had a similar effect at home. Source: The Health Plus Letter, Vol 2, No 29, August 31, 2004 http://www.1healthyworld.com Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.