Date of Award
2018
Degree Type
Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review
Degree Name
Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant
Department
Physician Assistant Studies
Department Chair
John Cavenagh, MBA, PhD, PA-C
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not biofeedback techniques are effective in reducing stress in the workplace.
Study Design: A systematic review of three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one containing a 28 day trial extension, published in peer reviewed journals from 2011-2012, all in the English language.
Data Sources: All studies were found using PubMed. Outcomes measured: All three studies measured stress reduction through biofeedback techniques using subjective patient questionnaires.
Results: All studies showed that biofeedback techniques were effective in reducing workplace stress compared to the control. Manocha et al. made a further distinction between mental silence meditation and relaxation-oriented meditation which includes similar aspects such as relaxation and reflection but would not be considered a true biofeedback technique.
Conclusions: Based on the results of these studies, it seems that there is a benefit of using biofeedback techniques to reduce stress in the workplace. Further research should attempt to; explore the long term benefits across workers in diversified fields, minimize the time and effort it takes to utilize these techniques, and explore the impact technological advances could have on these modalities, all of which would likely increase the usage and effectiveness of these techniques.
Recommended Citation
Field, Ryan, "Are biofeedback techniques effective in reducing stress in the workplace?" (2018). PCOM Physician Assistant Studies Student Scholarship. 348.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/pa_systematic_reviews/348