Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): Another helpful mind-body technique to treat GI problems

This article discusses the impact of trauma on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and how EMDR could help.

Article Abstract

“… Many physicians may question patients about the stressors in their lives… Reducing stress, practicing relaxation techniques, doing yoga, and receiving therapeutic massage are some of the ways to reduce stress on the body and reduce gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. These aspects of treatment certainly do not replace the medical treatment a physician is using but are a very important additional aspect of treatment.

There is a second aspect to the impact of emotions on the body in general and the GI tract in particular. Traumatic events, such as a car wreck, being the victim of an assault, or even traumatic experiences from childhood, can leave a memory within the body of the intense feelings and emotions and pain associated with those events…. One of the techniques for treating trauma and other issues is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)…”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Paid/Subscription Access

Kneff, J. C. (2004). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): Another helpful mind-body technique to treat GI problems. Gastroenterology Nursing, 27(6), 286-287. https://doi.org/10.1097/00001610-200411000-00008