Research article summary (published 30 May 1983):

Stress management training and relaxation imagery in the treatment of essential hypertension.

Full Abstract

The present study compared the effectiveness of three procedures in the treatment of 34 individuals with essential hypertension: (1) stress management training plus relaxation imagery, which consisted of an adaptation of existing stress management techniques in conjunction with extensive relaxation training using relaxation imagery; (2) relaxation imagery alone; and (3) weekly blood pressure checks. The relaxation imagery technique involved visualization of a relaxing image along with concentration on suggestions of relaxation, heaviness, and warmth. Treatment was individualized and lasted 8 weeks. Results indicated stress management plus relaxation imagery and relaxation imagery alone were significantly more effective than blood pressure checks in reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressures during treatment and in maintaining diastolic blood pressure reductions during follow-up. However, no significant differences were found between the two treatment procedures. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Author information

Author/s: Crowther, J H (JH);

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Clinical Trial; Comparative Study; Controlled Clinical Trial; Journal Article

Journal: Journal of behavioral medicine (J Behav Med), published in UNITED STATES. (Language: eng)

Reference: 1983-Jun; vol 6 (issue 2) : pp 169-87

Dates: Created 1983/11/23; Completed 1983/11/23; Revised 2008/11/21;

PMID: 6352951, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adolescent Adult Aged Blood Pressure Female Follow-Up Studies Humans Hypertension - therapy

Hypertension - therapy Imagination Male Middle Aged Patient Compliance Pilot Projects Relaxation Therapy Stress, Psychological - therapy

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