Effect of Benson’s Relaxation versus Mitchell’s Relaxation along with Conventional Physiotherapy Exercise as an Adjunct to Medications to Stabilise Blood Pressure, Anxiety and Quality of Life in Preeclampsia: Research Protocol for a Randomised Contro

Introduction: Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, is a leading cause of maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. It involves managing blood pressure, reducing anxiety and enhancing quality of life. This study will recruit participants diagnosed with preeclampsia, randomly allocating them into two groups. The conventional group will receive a routine exercise protocol along with Mitchell’s relaxation technique, whereas the intervention group will receive Benson’s relaxation technique along with routine exercises. Blood pressure will be measured using a digital sphygmomanometer, anxiety will be assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory and quality of life will be evaluated using the Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire. The protocol will be administered over four weeks, with an interim assessment conducted at the second week and a post-assessment completed after the fourth week. Need of the study: The preeclampsia population requires constant monitoring and care, as the vitals of affected women can be unstable. This group is at a higher risk for stroke and heart disease. Preeclampsia can impact foetal growth, leading to mental retardation, placental abruption and preterm birth. There is a lack of information regarding appropriate physiotherapy protocols for this population. Aim: The study aims to compare the effectiveness of Benson’s and Mitchell’s relaxation techniques, combined with conventional physiotherapy exercises, to determine which approach yields better outcomes. Materials and Methods: This randomised control trial will be conducted at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital and the Department of Community Physiotherapy of Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College in Sawangi Meghe, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, from February 2024 to August 2025. A total of 60 patients diagnosed with preeclampsia will be divided into two groups. Group A will receive conventional therapy, while the experimental group (Group B) will receive Benson’s relaxation. After dividing patients into the two groups, each Group A and B will receive Mitchell’s relaxation and Benson’s relaxation, respectively, for 30 minutes, along with breathing exercises. Patients will receive these interventions five days a week. All relaxation techniques will be combined with conventional physiotherapy exercises in both groups.