Evaluating Neuromuscular Tension

PURPOSE

The purpose of this laboratory session is to learn to recognize signs of excess tension in yourself and in others by symptomatic mannerisms and by manually testing your ability to relax. A trained person can diagnose neuromuscular hypertension by observation and by manual testing. While there is insufficient time in this course to master either the technique of relaxing or the techniques of evaluation, it is possible to learn procedures for both.

PROCEDURE

1. Choose a partner. Designate one partner as the subject and the other as the tester. Alternate roles.
2. The subject should lie supine in a comfortable position and consciously try to relax. This may be done alone, or the instructor may wish to direct the entire group in this procedure.
3. The tester should kneed beside the subject's right hand and remain very still and quiet while the subject is concentrating.
4. After five minutes have elapsed, the tester should observe the subject for signs of tension in Part A of chart 20.2 and check "yes" or "no" for symptoms of visual tension.
5. Quietly and gently, the tester should grasp the subject's right wrist with his or her fingers, and slowly raise it about three inches from the floor, letting it hinge at the elbows, then let the hand drop. Observe the signs of tension outlined in Part B of chart 20.2. Caution: Make no movement or sound to disturb your partner's concentration and relaxation. Check the chart to indicate manual symptoms of tension (see next page).
6. You may wish to repeat this after another minute or two.
7. Arouse the subject at the end of the testing and total the number of "yes" checks.
8. Find the rating in chart 20.3 and record it below.
9. Change places and repeat the evaluation with a new subject and tester.
10. Draw conclusions and discuss the implications by answering the questions that follow.

RESULTS

1. What is your tension score?
2. What is your tension-relaxation rating?
3. Were you aware of your own tension?
4. Was it more difficult to relax than you expected?
5. Did your awareness of your partner make it more difficult to concentrate?
6. Can you concentrate on your breathing without altering its rhythm?
7. Could you learn to release muscular tension and help manage your stress with additional practice?
8. Could you learn to release tension while sitting or standing with your eyes open?
9. Do you think your score today is typical of your normal tension level?

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

In several sentences describe the implications this concept has for you in terms of your daily life (e.g., sleeping, studying, taking exams, performing on stage, etc.).