Progressive Muscle Relaxation therapy in Anxiety: A Neurophysiological Study

Abstract

Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and represent a common human emotion. But when anxiety becomes an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it becomes a disabling disorder. A reaction opposite to stress is relaxation. Relaxation techniques include behavioural therapeutic approaches that differ widely in philosophy, methodology, and practice. The objectives of the study were to analyse the EEG changes associated with Modified Jacobson's Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy (JPMRT) in stress management, to analyse the hemodynamic changes with relaxation and to validate the effectiveness of Modified JPMRT. Thirty-five patients diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) as defined by the Standardised diagnostic criteria of DSM-IV-TR of American Psychiatric Association were subjected to Modified JPMRT for a total of ten sessions everyday by an experienced Clinical Psychologist. EEG, PR and BP were recorded and Hamilton rating scale for anxiety (HRSA) was taken before the beginning and at the end of therapy. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA-single factor. Results showed a significant reduction in EEG frequency, PR, SBP and subjective HRSA scale. However, no significant reduction in DBP was observed. The present study confirms and extends the finding of efficacy of Modified JPMRT on GAD. It could prove as a valid treatment option for anxiety and depression related disorders.