This project explored the effect of muscle activity on stress response. An integrated bio-behavioral model of stress, derived from work by Roy, Frankenhauser, and others served as a theoretical basis. A convenience sample of 105 adult, volunteer subjects were randomly assigned to control or experimental groups. All subjects were exposed to a physically discomforting procedure (cold pressor test). The experimental group was instructed in the use of a muscle activity which they were encouraged to use throughout the testing. The muscle activity involved limited movement but required the subject to keep the forearm flat on a table while lifting and dropping a small, wooden, barbell. The control group was instructed to remain still throughout the testing. Subjects were exposed to the cold pressor testing for two periods, each lasting 90 seconds. Subjective (visual analog scales and State Anxiety Inventory) and physiological measures of stress (cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure) were obtained at points before, throughout, and after the completion of the testing. Pertinent variables including gender, fatigue, present level of stress (as measured by Combined Hassles and Uplifts Scales), and control (as measured by the IPC Scale) were tested for possible covariate effects.

A multivariate analysis of covariance was used to test the proposed effects and possible violations of assumptions were addressed. Results of the statistical analysis suggest some reduction of subjective stress in the experimental group but no significant differences in physiological responses to acute stress. Gender, perceptions of present level of stress, and fatigue had significant covariate effects on the subjective response to stress. Perception of control had no covariate effect on responses in this study. Gender had a significant effect on subjective stress response, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure in this sample.

The information generated by this study has potential implications for nursing practice. The protocol has been deliberately planned to replicate the type of experience an individual may have during a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. The possible importance of a simplistic, autonomous, nursing intervention (instruction in muscle activity) on the stress process, could have exciting practice implications.