Integrating relaxation and spiritual techniques in managing pain and psychological distress in burn injury: a consultation-liaison psychiatry case report

Pain and psychological distress of patient with burn injury hinder recovery from medical treatment. This single case illustrates Islamic spiritual coping within a Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry approach. We reported a 45-year-old man with 27% total body surface area burns following a gas explosion who presented with severe pain (Visual Analog Scale [VAS], 6–7/10), dysphoric mood, sleep disturbance, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]=10), and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 [GAD-7]=8). A biopsychosocial-spiritual intervention comprising low-dose amitriptyline, supportive psychotherapy, psychoeducation, diaphragmatic breathing, and guided Islamic spiritual coping (muraqaba and dhikr) was implemented. During hospitalization, pain decreased to VAS 4/10, PHQ-9 to 3, and GAD-7 to 4, with improved sleep, emotional regulation, treatment adherence, and acceptance of hospitalization. Culturally appropriate relaxation and spiritual care may serve as individualized adjuncts to multidisciplinary burn care. Further studies are needed to evaluate effectiveness and broader applicability.