Mindbody Prescription: Healing the Body, Healing the Pain, The

American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis,  Apr 2003  by Lynch, Donald F Jr

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The concept of stress and emotions as important contributors to illness is now fairly widely accepted, but the degree to which Dr. Sarno invokes the psychological will make many clinicians uncomfortable. One is always leery of practitioners who decry the "conventional medical establishment" as being outmoded or out-of-synch, and there is too much of such stridency in this book. It abounds with phrases such as: "Modern medical science studies the details of maladies but rejects unconscious emotional processes as the cause..."(p. 117), and, "All of these admonitions and prohibitions (by doctors and physical therapists) enhanced by poor medical advice, keep your attention riveted on your body, which is your brain's intention"(p. 147).

It seems that Dr. Sarno envisions himself on a crusade: "The disorders just described under the headings of TMS and its equivalents are without doubt responsible for a substantial proportion of the Western world's medical ills. Their proper management would alleviate much suffering and reduce the enormous cost of medical care that now burdens modern society" (p. 126).

While some of what Dr. Sarno propounds in this volume would be considered unconventional treatment, it is a treatment program which enjoys many adherents. Consequently, this book will be of most use to the clinician who is involved in the management of chronic pain or physical rehabilitation patients. The book is articulately written and presents the concepts of mind-body medicine and stress management clearly and simply. Those who need to be familiar with TMS and Sarno's protocol for its treatment will find it a useful summary of that program and a valuable addition to their libraries.

Copyright American Society of Clinical Hypnosis Apr 2003
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