The Impact of Physical Rehabilitation on the ADL Skills of Schizophrenia Patients with Comorbid Musculoskeletal Conditions

Abstract

Objectives: This study utilized the Barthel Index (BI) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) assessment scales to clarify the effects of exercise therapy on the activities of daily living (ADL) abilities of schizophrenia inpatients with musculoskeletal conditions.

Methods: The study hospital had 357 rehabilitation requests for inpatients between April 2021 and March 2022， of which there were 35 individuals with schizophrenia and musculoskeletal conditions. ICD-10 was used to classify psychological disorders and ADL abilities before and after rehabilitation were assessed with BI and FIM. A t-test was used for statistical analysis of data， with values less than 5-percent deemed significant.

Results: Average BI values were 65.6±30.0 before rehabilitation and 81.3±21.1 after，presenting a significant improvement (p<0.001). Similarly significant average FIM values were also confirmed: 90.1±28.9 before rehabilitation and 104.3±21.1 after (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Results suggest exercise therapy for individuals with schizophrenia and musculoskeletal conditions may have beneficial effects on improving ADL abilities.