Applied psychophysiology and biofeedback
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Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback · Jun 2009
Randomized Controlled TrialEffects of wellness programs in family medicine.
The objective of this research was to determine the effects of wellness programs on quality of life and utilization in an academic family medicine practice in two small controlled studies. One offered stress management and problem solving; the second offered a broader wellness intervention. Outcome measures consisted of scores on the Beck Anxiety Inventory, Hamilton Depression Inventory, CES-D (depression), Health Related Quality of Life, SF-12, and the number of office visits in 6 months. ⋯ No differences were found in utilization in either study. Based on the results of this research, short term wellness programs can be implemented in family practice and are effective in improving quality of life, but not in deceasing utilization in family practice patients. Matching the design of the program to specific patient needs may increase retention and effectiveness.
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Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback · Jun 2009
Randomized Controlled TrialThe effects of respiratory sinus arrhythmia biofeedback on heart rate variability and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms: a pilot study.
Recent studies have found a significant association between PTSD and low heart rate variability (HRV), a biomarker of autonomic dysregulation. Research indicates that respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) biofeedback increases HRV while reducing related pathological symptoms. This controlled pilot study compared RSA biofeedback to progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) as adjunctive interventions for 38 persons with PTSD symptoms in a residential treatment facility for a substance use disorder. ⋯ Both groups significantly reduced PTSD and insomnia symptoms and a statistical trend was observed for reduced substance craving for the RSA group. Increases in HRV were significantly associated with PTSD symptom reduction. Overall, these results provide preliminary support for the efficacy of RSA biofeedback in improving physiological and psychological health for individuals with PTSD.