Relaxation techniques refer to the variety of methods and manipulations used to reduce stress, muscle tension, and anxiety in the body. Relaxation techniques are effective in treating back pain by relaxing painful back muscles and relieving muscle spasms as well as diverting attention away from pain. The techniques are thought to work by triggering the Relaxation Response (RR), a state of deep relaxation that induces a decrease in heart rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Relaxation techniques range from massage therapy, Tai chi, and acupuncture.
