Constant Versus Rhythmic Muscle Tension in Applied Tension

The research aimed to examine ways in which applied tension far blood-injury phobia may be improved. The effect on blood pressure of two forms of muscle tension under three different rates of breathing is reported. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to use either constant or rhythmic muscle tension under three different breathing rates (i.e., fast, slow, and normal). The effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured. Results indicated that both constant and rhythmic forms of muscle tension increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, rhythmic tension was significantly more effective than constant tension at raising diastolic blood pressure. Breathing rate had no differential effects on blood pressure. Suggestions are made about modifications of Applied Tension in the treatment of blood-injury phobia.