Irritable bowel syndrome in adults: diagnosis and management

Recommendation ID: CG61/4
Question: Relaxation and biofeedback:- What is the effect of relaxation and biofeedback therapies on [Irritable bowel syndrome] (IBS) symptoms and patient-related outcomes?
Any explanatory notes (if applicable): Why this is important:- Reviews of biofeedback and relaxation therapies suggest a positive effect on the control of IBS symptoms, but evidence is limited and not sufficient to make recommendations. Patient representation in the Guideline Development Group supports this view, from a personal and anecdotal perspective. Recent developments in computer-aided biofeedback methods merit investigation. A large randomised trial is proposed to compare relaxation therapy, computer-aided biofeedback therapy and attention control in primary care. Participants should be adults with a positive diagnosis of IBS, and they should be stratified into those with and without refractory IBS and then randomised to treatments. The primary outcome should be global improvement in IBS symptoms. Health-related quality of life should also be measured, and adverse effects recorded. Study outcomes should be assessed 12, 26 and 52 weeks after the start of therapy. Qualitative data should be generated relating to how people with IBS perceive their condition.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance: Irritable bowel syndrome in adults: diagnosis and management
Number: CG61
Date issued: February 2008

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research?	No
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?	No