Randomised trial, 2026
Does online muscle relaxation training or lifestyle changes reduce PMS symptoms and improve work performance?
Yes, both approaches significantly reduced PMS symptoms and improved work performance. Progressive muscle relaxation was slightly more effective for pain and overall symptom severity.
What they did
68 women with PMS were randomly assigned to online progressive muscle relaxation training (22 women), online lifestyle intervention (22 women), or no intervention (24 women). They were assessed at baseline, after the program, and 4 weeks later on pain, symptom severity, anxiety, depression, work balance, work performance, and quality of life.
What they found
Both intervention groups improved significantly compared to control. The muscle relaxation group had the lowest pain scores (p = 0.027) and symptom severity (p = 0.007) at follow-up. Both groups significantly improved work performance and satisfaction (p < 0.001). The lifestyle group also improved irritability, depressive thoughts, and sleep (p < 0.001).
What it means for you
Online programs using muscle relaxation or lifestyle advice may help reduce PMS symptoms and improve how PMS affects work life. This is a small study, so larger studies are needed to confirm these results.
68
Total women in the study
22
Women in each intervention group
p < 0.001
Work performance improvement in both groups
About the study
- Original title
- Effect of web-based progressive muscle relaxation and lifestyle interventions on psychological well-being, occupational performance, and quality of life in women with premenstrual syndrome: A randomized controlled trial with 4-week follow-up
- Authors
- Karakus A, Akyurek G
- Journal
- Journal of affective disorders
- Year
- 2026
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 24
- What was tested
- Online progressive muscle relaxation training or web-based lifestyle intervention compared to no intervention
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2026.121278
Topics
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