Reduction of tremor severity and disability following behavioral relaxation training

J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry. 1999 Jun;30(2):119-35. doi: 10.1016/s0005-7916(99)00015-4.

Abstract

The effects of behavioral relaxation training (BRT) for the treatment of moderate to severe essential tremor (ET) was evaluated with two older adults, ages 73 and 83, using a single-case design and statistical analysis. Measures included within-session clinician and self-rated tremor severity and disability in activities of daily living (ADL), EMG activity, and daily self-ratings of tremor severity and ADL disabilities. Following a brief 2-4 week baseline period BRT was conducted. Clinically significant reductions of 47-66% in within session clinical and self-rated tremor severity and daily self-ratings were obtained. Statistically significant changes in self- and clinician ratings occurred following BRT. In some cases, EMG activity also declined following intervention. Results at a seven week follow up were mixed and related to continued use of relaxation skills. While the cost ratio (medication: BRT) indicates that relaxation training is more expensive relative to standard medical intervention, cost-benefit to patients off sets the financial difference. Relaxation training may be an efficacious first step in a biobehavioral stepped care treatment model.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Behavior Therapy / methods
  • Disability Evaluation*
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Relaxation Therapy
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Tremor / diagnosis*
  • Tremor / therapy*