Anxiety states: a preliminary report on the value of connective tissue massage

J Psychosom Res. 1983;27(2):125-9. doi: 10.1016/0022-3999(83)90088-0.

Abstract

Five patients who presented with symptoms of tension and anxiety were subsequently referred to a physiotherapist and treated with Connective Tissue Massage. Psychophysiological recordings of heart rate, frontalis EMG, skin resistance and forearm extensor EMG were taken before and after treatment. All patients showed a significant response to treatment in one or more of the psychophysiological parameters. Results are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that each individual has a unique stress response pattern. Preliminary findings proved interesting and supported clinical findings with regard to the effectiveness of this treatment for some patients suffering from Anxiety States.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety Disorders / physiopathology
  • Anxiety Disorders / therapy*
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Galvanic Skin Response
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Massage / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain Management