The effect of daily self-measurement of pressure pain sensitivity followed by acupressure on depression and quality of life versus treatment as usual in ischemic heart disease: a randomized clinical trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Depressive symptoms and reduced quality of life (QOL) are parts of the chronic stress syndrome and predictive of adverse outcome in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). Chronic stress is associated with increased sensitivity for pain, which can be measured by algometry as Pressure Pain Sensitivity (PPS) on the sternum.

Aim

To evaluate if stress focus by self-measurement of PPS, followed by stress reducing actions including acupressure, can decrease depressive symptoms and increase psychological well-being in people with stable IHD.

Design

Observer blinded randomized clinical trial over 3 months of either intervention or treatment as usual (TAU).

Statistical analysis

Intention to treat.

Methods

Two hundred and thirteen participants with

SUBMITTER: Bergmann N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4029626 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature