Hi Mj,
I have tried Hypnosis, and I think it works...to a degree. Although, I don't know if I could handle surgery by just listening to my hypnosis CDs. I tried hypnosis because I began to run and my whole body took a beating. And since, I was in a very bad accident a long time ago, where my body was basically put back together, running does not do wonders for my body as it does for others. But I want to run, so what could I do to help me? Well, I tried hypnosis, and I felt more relaxed and I slept better. This was after the first session where I listened to the CD on my own many times.
I have seen so many doctors that tell me one thing and I do the opposite....probably because I have never let anything stop me so why would I know....but my point is that the mind is a VERY powerful tool. Although, the pain that I have probably will never go away, the hypnosis CDS I have do help me relax more. AND I do feel better...to a degree!

Have an OPEN mind! Hope things work out!
Cherrios!