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Biofeedback-assisted relaxation therapy in neurocardiogenic syncope: a pilot study
Angele V McGrady1, Cheryl Kern-Buell, Ellen Bush
1Department of Psychiatry, Medical College of Ohio, 3120 Glendale Avenue, Toledo, Ohio 43614, USA. amcgrady@mco.edu
Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback
|September 11, 2003
Summary
Biofeedback assisted relaxation (BFRT) shows potential in reducing syncope symptoms like headaches and loss of consciousness. Further research is needed to understand how patient coping styles influence treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychophysiology
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS) is a common cause of fainting.
- Current management strategies for NCS have limitations.
- Biofeedback assisted relaxation training (BFRT) offers a non-pharmacological approach to manage autonomic dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of BFRT in patients with neurocardiogenic syncope.
- To assess the impact of BFRT on syncope recurrence, associated symptoms, and psychological factors.
- To explore the role of patient coping styles in treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A controlled pilot study involving 22 patients with NCS.
- Randomization into a treatment group (BFRT) or a wait-list control group.
- BFRT included electromyograph and thermal biofeedback, relaxation techniques, and symptom management advice.
Main Results:
- The BFRT group demonstrated significant reductions in headache index and loss of consciousness compared to the control group (p < .05).
- Both groups experienced decreases in state anxiety and depression.
- The Millon Behavioral Health Inventory revealed common maladaptive coping styles among participants, including illness overreaction and depressive tendencies.
Conclusions:
- BFRT may be a beneficial intervention for managing neurocardiogenic syncope.
- Patient coping styles appear to influence treatment outcomes and warrant further investigation.
- Additional research is necessary to confirm these findings and optimize BFRT protocols for NCS patients.