Effect of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Techniques on Chronic Pain in Cancer

[Name of the Institute]

Abstract

Conventional treatment of cancer-related pain is primarily focused on pharmaceutical, radiation, or surgical methods. A great deal of evidence supports the inclusion of psychosocial interventions to complement biomedical measures to improve pain control, thereby improving quality of life. Analysis of current literature and research was done to develop a guideline for the implementation progressive muscle relaxation techniques to respond to the aspects of cancer-related pain which are beyond the scope of medications and surgery. The research is varied by methods chosen and the different cancers that were studied. Despite the differences, there was a consensus that these modalities are an effective complement to pharmaceutical therapy for many cancer patients. The variety of techniques available allows the clinician to adapt the intervention to specific patient needs and abilities. Nurses frequently perform the role of implementing non-pharmaceutical therapies when medications do not provide an adequate level of pain relief. Educating patients on these methods falls within the scope and practice of nurse practitioners to implement in combination with pharmaceutical treatment. An evidenced based guideline was developed to guide nurse practitioners in the implementation of guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and supportive counseling to complement pharmaceutical therapy for improved pain control for cancer patients.

Chapter 1: Introduction

One major aspect of cancer is pain. A cancer therapy is usually very stressful for those who involved and also gives the emotional distress that often leads to considerable tension. It is an important role to bring relaxation in the cancer patient. Relaxation techniques such as Progressive Muscle Relaxation or meditation provide deep relaxation for body and soul. They are ideally suited to reinvigorate and regenerate.

After a cancer diagnosis, patients need every possible support and assistance not only from doctors, nurses, family and friends, but also you to do something good and learn relaxation techniques, for example is an additional element of support for the personal coping. A promising way to achieve this, the progressive muscle relaxation (PME) is. The PME is an easy to use, very effective and universal method of relaxation. Positive internal forces are demonstrably strengthened, reduced heart rate and heart rate, breathing becomes calmer. Especially due to crisis situations caused insomnia can often alleviate this proven method of relaxation.

Through permanent and regular carrying out of this contraction and relaxation of muscles over time, both a significant relaxation of the muscles is achieved. More important is in most cases, the application, however, the fact that it also internal stresses, such as anxiety disorders, dissolved and an improved body sensation can be achieved in the patient. In addition to the guided relaxation can also carry the PMR with specified exercises themselves. In the beginning it is advisable to conduct a guided relaxation, to learn the proper exercise sequence.

Background

According to Helen Cooke, CAM-Cancer Consortium (2011) Progressive muscle relaxation this is most effective technique and therapy that tenses and relaxes major emaciated group of muscles, the objective of this therapy is to reduce the tension ...