Relaxation technique training to alleviate emotional stress in patients with chronic pain: A report of two cases

Shinobu Kobayashi, Natsuko Yanagi, Kikuyo Koitabashi

Department of Nursing, Gunma University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Maebashi, Japan.

DOI: 10.4236/ojn.2013.31009                

Abstract

Aim: Chronic pain can leads to uncomfortable sensory and emotional experiences and remarkably decrease one’s quality of life. The purpose of this report is to describe our experience of treatment with relaxation techniques for two outpatients with chronic pain-related emotional stress. Methods: We offer outpatient relaxation treatment as a specialized out-patient nursing service. Two patients were motivated to self-manage their pain, and thus sought outpatient instruction in relaxation techniques to provide methods of pain self-management. We examined the usefulness of relaxation techniques as pain self-management methods based on subjective information and the Mental Health Pattern questionnaire. Results: Two patients were able to incorporate the relaxation techniques into their daily schedules and control their symptoms. Ultimately, their attitudes toward their pain changed, which lessened their stress levels and improved their quality of life. Conclusions: Our results suggest that nursing care using continuous relaxation techniques improves pain self-management in patients with chronic pain.

Keywords

Chronic Pain; Relaxation Technique; Emotional Stress; Self-Management; Specialized Outpatient Nursing Services

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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