Relaxation

Dpt 2nd semester

Techniques of general
relaxation
Basic three techniques
a)Support
b)Comfort
c)Restful atmosphere
a. support
i. Lying
ii. Half lying
iii. Prone lyng
iv. Side lying
i. Support by LYING
Used
a)to achieve full support of body
b)counterbalanced weight of the body
c)obviates all mechanical tension on
muscles or ligaments
suitability of each position is
according to
a.condition of the patient
b.individual preference.
 (i) Lying Supine.
spring mattress is good
it will mould itself to the body contours and give
even press and comfort.
HEAD
soft pillow that prevent the head from rolling to
either side and be well molded to support the neck
posteriorly.
KNEES
small pillow under knee
i. relieves tension on the Hamstrings and the ilio-
femoral ligament,
ii. allows the pelvis to roll backwards
iii.the lumbar spine is straightened and supported.
FEET
are held in the mid-position by a
sandbag or similar device,
Arm
slightly abducted at the shoulder
and flexed at the elbow, rests on
a pillow.
(ii) Half Lying
Similar to the previous position
but breathing is easier
because less weight on the back and
abdominal pressure on the under
surface of the Diaphragm is reduced.
ARMCHAIR
good substitute for a plinth or bed
thighs are fully supported
feet rest on the floor or foot stool, or
a T footrest.
(iii) Prone Lying.
Head is turned to one side and may rest
on a small pillow,
Hip
A firm pillow under the hips and the lower
abdomen prevents hollowing of the back
for women it should extend higher to
avoid too much pressure on the chest.
Lower Leg is elevated so that the knees
are slightly bent and the toes free.
Slight medial rotation at the hips,
causing the heels to fall apart, induces
relaxation of legs.
Prone lying
Side Lying.
relaxation obtained in this position is
determined by the how efficiently
shoulder and pelvic gjrdles are stabilized
The uppermost arm and leg may be
rested on the supporting surface
The head pillow supports the neck and
head in alignment with the body, and
must not be too high.
The majority of people sleep on the side,
Side lying
b. comfort

the ingredients of comfort

deep breathing
warmth
mild degree of physical fatigue.
Removal of constrictive clothing
corsets and belts,
buttons or suspenders liable to
cause pressure must be removed.
b. comfort
ROOM
should be warm,
free supply of fresh air;
in winter additional warmth can be supplied by light but warm
blankets, a covered hot-waterbottle at the feet,
an electric blanket
by non- luminous infra-red irradiation,
care being taken to avoid over heating, that leads to
restlessness.
FOR HOME
use a warm bath gives the most even and pleasing type of
heat,
its soothing effect must not be ruined subsequently by
vigorous rubbing with a towel.
A light well-balanced meal,
rhythmical physical activity of short duration, such as a brisk
walk
in the open- air,
c. Restful Atmosphere
physical and mental relaxations are interdependent,
an effort must be made to secure mental rest.
treatment-room
should be as quiet as-possible, as noice has
disturbing influence
some worried by complete silence, but high-pitched
sound produced close at hand should be avoided
continuous low-pitched hum of distant traffic tends
to be soothing.
Bright lights and strong colours, red and bright
yellow, should be avoided
low well-diffused light with green and peach
furnishings gives a soft and warm glow and provides
relaxation.
screens and shades used with a little imagination
can provide soothing atmosphere
 Behaviour of the
physiotherapist.
Behaviour of physiotherapist is v. important to
comfort the patient
must inspire confidence, as fear ,is at the root of much
of the tension
appearance must be tidy
dressing should be Suitable
should be Punctual
move calmly without hurry or hesitation
manner must be courteous,
pleasant and understanding
voice should be low-pitched and. clear.
simple explanation of the instructions, should be in
language and terms which he can understand
Conversation, on different topics may be important to
comfort patient.
habit of relaxation
In successful cases a habit of
relaxation is built up in place of a
habit of tension, but the formation
of new habits takes time.
Regular and frequent practice on
the part of the patient is essential,
until finally he becomes, an expert
in the art ofletting go or relaxing.