Autogenic relaxation techniques may augment the analgesic effect of
acupuncture treatment according to a new report. In a randomized controlled
trial, the use of autogenic relaxation during acupuncture treatment for pain
was investigated. Twenty seven patients attending an out-patient acupuncture
clinic, all suffering from chronic pain of various origins, were asked to
listen to a tape either of music or of autogenic relaxation suggestions during
acupuncture treatment. Measurements pre and post treatment were taken of
perceived pain, and comparisons between the two tapes used and a no tape group
was made. The results revealed a trend towards benefit from the use of an
autogenic relaxation tape during acupuncture treatment, and although the study
group was too small for this to be significant , the results have prompted
further research into the integration of relaxation techniques with acupuncture.