TRE (Trauma Release Exercises) Research

3 peer-reviewed studies supporting this intervention. Evidence rating: B

3 Studies
0 RCTs
0 Meta-analyses
2015-2021 Year Range

Study Comparison

Study Year Type Journal Key Finding
Lynning M et al. 2021 Controlled study Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine TRE practice improved quality of life and reduced self-reported muscle tension in participants over an 8-week period.
Nibel H et al. 2018 Systematic review European Journal of Psychotraumatology Systematic review found TRE shows promise for PTSD and anxiety symptoms, though more rigorous research is needed.
Berceli D et al. 2015 Controlled study Global Advances in Health and Medicine TRE (Trauma Release Exercises) improved quality of life and reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety in caregivers working in high-stress environments.

Study Details

Lynning M, Svane C, Westergaard K, Bergien SO, Skovgaard L

Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine

Key Finding: TRE practice improved quality of life and reduced self-reported muscle tension in participants over an 8-week period.
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This study evaluated the effects of an 8-week TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) program on quality of life and physical symptoms.

Participants who regularly practiced TRE showed improvements in multiple quality of life domains and reported significant reductions in chronic muscle tension. The exercises were well-tolerated and participants found them easy to incorporate into daily routine.

Nibel H

European Journal of Psychotraumatology

Key Finding: Systematic review found TRE shows promise for PTSD and anxiety symptoms, though more rigorous research is needed.
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This systematic review examined the available evidence for TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) as an intervention for trauma-related symptoms and anxiety.

While the review found promising results across several studies, it noted that most research to date has methodological limitations. The authors conclude TRE warrants further investigation with more rigorous study designs.

Berceli D, Salmon M, Bonifas R, Ndefo N

Global Advances in Health and Medicine

Key Finding: TRE (Trauma Release Exercises) improved quality of life and reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety in caregivers working in high-stress environments.
View Summary

This study examined the effects of TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) on non-professional caregivers working in conflict-affected and high-stress areas.

Participants who learned and practiced TRE showed significant improvements in quality of life, reduced anxiety, and decreased physical tension compared to controls. The findings support TRE as a simple, teachable self-care intervention for stress management.

Evidence Assessment

B Moderate Evidence

This intervention has moderate evidence from some randomized trials and consistent observational data, though more research would strengthen conclusions.