Pilates-Based Training for Postural Stability in Patients with Schizophrenia

Abstract

OBJECTIVES Impairment in postural stability is prevalent in schizophrenia patients and this poses potential hazards. This study was planned to investigate whether the Pilates-based training improve the postural stability of patients with schizophrenia. METHODS Outpatients with schizophrenia were allocated to either Pilates exercise group (n=10), or control group (n=10) receiving no exercise. Pilates exercise group participated in supervised Pilates mat exercise program twice per week for six weeks, while the control group participated in no regular physical activity during study. Biodex Balance System was used to assess the participants’ postural stability at the baseline and after six weeks. RESULTS Statistical analysis revealed that Pilates exercise group showed significant improvement in terms of overall and medial/lateral postural stability scores in static condition (p0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that Pilates-based training benefit and suggest potential particular benefits in terms of postural stability in patients with schizophrenia. Pilates exercise can be added to the rehabilitation program of schizophrenia patients as a safe and effective method. Future research should include comparative exercise groups in order to determine any particular advantage to Pilates-based training in schizophrenia.

Keywords

• balance
• exercise
• pilates
• postural stability
• schizophrenia