Positive Health Online

Abstract

VILA and others, ABS Creu de Barbera, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain, abs.sabadell6@sabadell.scs.es, have conducted a trial of relaxation practice for patients with ischaemic heart disease.

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a programme of relaxation used in primary care for patients with ischaemic heart disease through evaluation of the anxiety levels and the quality of life of these patients.

Methodology

104 patients between 15 and 69 years old with ischaemic heart disease were randomized to a treatment group (57 patients) and a control group (47 patients). The treatment group received conventional treatment and relaxation techniques, and the control subjects received conventional treatment. Degree of anxiety was measured with the STAI scale-questionnaire. Quality of life was measured with the SF-36 health questionnaire. Blood pressure and smoking were recorded.

Results

After 12 months, 70% of patients practised relaxation at least for a short time. In the treatment group, anxiety dropped significantly at 3, 6, and 12 months. Quality of life at 3 and 6 months in the treatment group showed better scores in most dimensions except body pain. At 12 months, scores continued to be better than at the start (social function p=.012), except in the mental health dimension. No significant changes were found in blood pressure or tobacco consumption.

Conclusion

These results suggest that a relaxation programme is beneficial for patients with ischaemic heart disease and leads to improvements in their quality of life.

References

Vila R, Benedicto M, Pujadas C, Gomez M, Franzi A, Rodriguez L, Juncosa S. Usefulness of relaxation techniques for patients with ischaemic cardiopathy: intervention in a health district. Atencion Primaria 36 (2): 78-84, Jun 30, 2005.