Fysioterapeuten (Apr 2016)
Binge eating disorder and body image disturbance
Abstract
Introduction: The risks associated with overweight and obesity are a concern to Norwegian health authorities. Both community based and inpatient treatment to provide weight loss are established. Physiotherapists have a central role in these programs. Some individuals struggling with overweight or obesity also have an eating disorder. Treatment that targets weight only is often not sufficient for these patients. Thus, the aim of this study is to explore body image in individuals with binge eating disorder. Main part: By using various questionnaires we investigated the incidence of several aspects of body image disorder in four patients with binge eating disorder. The patients reported body image disturbance at the same level as patients with anorexia and bulimia. Single studies indicate that severity of body image disturbance occurs regardless of eating disorder diagnosis, and familiarity with one’s own body may be a key variable in understanding the relationship between body image and eating disorder symptoms. Sum up: We encourage physiotherapists engaged in treatment programs for patients with obesity and binge eating disorder to investigate and treat body image problems, and to contribute to the development of scientific knowledge.
