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Article
Effects of Stretch-Based Progressive Relaxation Training on the Secretion of Salivary Immunoglobulin A in Orofacial Pain Patients
Journal of Orofacial Pain
  • Jeffrey J. Sherman, University of Kentucky
  • Charles R. Carlson, University of Kentucky
  • James A. McCubbin, University of Kentucky
  • John F. Wilson, University of Kentucky
Abstract

There is a growing body of evidence that psychologic stressors can affect physical health and proneness to disease through depletion of the body's immune system. Relatively little research, however, has investigated the potential immunoenhancing effect of stress-relieving strategies such as progressive muscle relaxation. This study explored the relationship between immune functioning and relaxation training with persons experiencing persistent facial pain. In a single experimental session, 21 subjects either received relaxation training or rested for an equivalent time period. Salivary immunoglobulin A, mood, pain, and tension levels were measured before and after relaxation and rest periods. Results indicated that a greater proportion of those receiving relaxation training had increases in secretion of salivary immunoglobulin A. These findings suggest that immunoenhancement may be another potential benefit of progressive relaxation training for persons with chronic pain conditions.

Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-1997
Notes/Citation Information

Published in Journal of Orofacial Pain, v. 11, no. 2, p. 115-124.

Citation Information
Jeffrey J. Sherman, Charles R. Carlson, James A. McCubbin and John F. Wilson. "Effects of Stretch-Based Progressive Relaxation Training on the Secretion of Salivary Immunoglobulin A in Orofacial Pain Patients" Journal of Orofacial Pain Vol. 11 Iss. 2 (1997) p. 115 - 124
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/james_mccubbin/2/