Abstract
Background & Aims : The aim of the present study was to verify the impact of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) in combination with breathing technique (breathing PMR) on self-control for stress management in patients undergoing treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods : Twenty-four patients participated and were followed during a 2-month pre-intervention (baseline) period and a 6-month intervention period. Changes in salivary amylase concentration, blood pressure, heart rate, HbA1c level, and objective indices including relaxation scales, coping behavior scales, and mental health patterns extracted from semi-structured interviews were assessed before and after the interventions. Results : There were significant differences in the physical indices (salivary amylase concentration, blood pressure, heart rate) and relaxation scales between the pre-intervention and post-intervention periods (p<0.05-0.01). The HbA1c levels during intervention were stable in a better range compared with those of previous year (p<0.05-0.01). Subjective indices including coping behavior scales, mental health patterns, and other complaints tended to improve during concomitant breathing PMR. Conclusions : Continuous breathing PMR during treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus may improve self-control and stress management.
