A mind–body treatment for hypothyroid dysfunction: A report of two cases

Abstract 

Purpose

For many years hypothyroid dysfunction has been treated with standard medical approaches yet some seek newer experimental conservative approaches. This paper describes the management of a new conservative approach to management in two individuals who sought treatment from a practitioner specialising in a new integrative mind–body based treatment. The purpose of this study is to present two case studies of the management of hypothyroid dysfunction using the mind–body neuro-emotional technique (NET).

Method

The study was set in a private practice setting in Sydney, Australia. Two cases had been diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism by independent medical and laboratory based assessment, of which conservative management had not resolved the symptoms. Both cases underwent a schedule of NET as a modality to treat their hypothyroidism.

Results

Objective measures such as thyroid stimulating hormone and T₄ levels were reported, along with more subjective measures such as feelings of tiredness and general well being. In both cases, there were improvements in TSH and T₄ levels, both returning to normal levels.

Conclusions

Thyroid dysfunction has been effectively treated by conventional medicine for many years. Changes in thyroid dysfunction after a course of NET have been described. As the standard medical model is associated with some adverse effects such as long-term medication use and potential side effects, all natural, non-invasive approaches to management should be reviewed. Further research into this mind–body therapy is recommended to evaluate its potential effectiveness for this common condition.

Keywords: Complementary therapies, Chiropractic, Hypothyroidism, Psychology, Biopsychosocial model