The effect of cranial techniques on the heart rate variability response to psychological stress test in firefighter cadets

Background Heart Rate Variability is a simple tool to monitor cardiovascular stress. The proper function of the cardiovascular system is a problem among firefighters. Physical activity has health benefits being correlated with psychological stress. Physically active people should be more resilient to psychological stress but this has not always been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to determine whether cranial techniques would have an effect on HRV parameters. Osteopathy in the cranial reduces stress and improves cardiovascular function. Methods Fifty-seven firefighter cadets aged 18–24 years (21.63 ± 1.41) participated in the study. All subjects had their heart rate variability measured and were randomly assigned either to the cranial techniques (CS) group with therapy performed once a week for 5 weeks) or to the control group (CO). After 5 weeks heart rate variability was measured again in both groups. Results In the Friedman test, in the CS group there was a statistically significant effect of cranial techniques on HR and LF, but not on HF; in the CO group, a statistically significant difference was observed for HR, HF and LF. In the Nemenyi test, in the CS group there was a statistically significant difference for HR and LF and in the CO group for HR, HF and LF. After applying hierarchical clustering with Euclidean measure and the complete method, dendrograms were drawn up showing similarities for HR, HF and LF values. Conclusion The cranial techniques and touch might exert a beneficial effect on HRV.