Physiotherapy in psychiatric ward: implication on psychopathology dimensions and subjective well-being

Objective

This study evaluates a physiotherapy program’s impact on psychopathology and psychological well-being of hospitalized psychiatric patients.

Methods

From January to June 2024 a physiotherapy programme took place twice per week for 45 minutes each at the SPDC of the “San Camillo de Lellis” Hospital. All patients were asked to voluntarily participate. On the base of their choice we divided them into a Physiotherapy Group (PG) and Control Group (CG). Evaluations have been implemented at admission (T0) and discharge (T1) the GHQ-12 and BPRS have been administered.

Results

The PG (n=35) and CG (n=32) do not differ by demographics (age P=.60, edu P=.52, Gender P=.21), SUD (P=.64) and the length of hospitalization (P=.26) while differ in primary diagnoses (P=.014). Both groups showed significant improvements in well-being (GHQ-12) and psychopathology (BPRS) from T0 to T1 (P < .001). Interactions between Time and Group were significant for psychological well-being (P < .05), BPRS total score (P < .01), Tension, Unusual Thought Content, Excitement, and Disorientation (P < .05).

Conclusions

These findings align with previous research supporting physical activity’s benefits in psychiatric conditions. The physiotherapy program significantly improved subjective well-being and reduced psychopathological severity, particularly in Tension, Unusual thought content, Excitement, and Disorientation symptoms.

A physiotherapy program for acute psychiatric inpatients shows promise as a low-cost, complementary treatment, improving well-being and reducing psychopathological symptoms. These preliminary data suggest that a structured physical activity intervention carried out by qualified personnel in mental health setting could represent a trans-categorical intervention.