Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Psychological Intervention

• Main Author: McGraw, Phillip C., 1950-
• Other Authors: Lawlis, G. Frank
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: North Texas State University 1979
• Subjects: chronic pain; rheumatoid arthritis; relaxation training; biofeedback training; Rheumatoid arthritis.; Biofeedback training.; Relaxation.
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331903/

A psychological intervention involving relaxation training and biofeedback training for the control of peripheral skin temperature was investigated in this study with 27 female rheumatoid arthritics as participants. Based on analysis of the temperature data, it was concluded that the biofeedback response was not learned. From electromyographic data, it was concluded that participants did learn to relax. The hypothesis that the two treatment components would have beneficial effects on the physical, functional, and psychological aspects of rheumatoid arthritis was answered partially. No differential effects as a function of biofeedback training were found as the data for the temperature increase and temperature decrease groups were statistically combined in multiple analyses of variance for repeated measures. Although no differential effects were obtained, numerous positive changes were found. Correlated with the relaxation training were decreases in reported subjective units of discomfort, percentage of time hurting, percentage of body hurting, and general severity of pain. Improved sleep patterns were reported as was increased performance of activities of daily living. Reductions were also found in psychological tension, and in the amount of time mood was influenced by the disease. Shifts were not found in imagery, locus of control, and other psychological dimensions. Constitutional improvements were also absent.