Effect Of Psycho-motor Physical Therapy On Self-Esteem Among Community-Dwelling Individuals With Locomotor Disabilities. Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/jhpo.V2I4.0034

Abstract

Locomotor disabilities not only impair physical mobility but also adversely affect psychological well-being, particularly self-esteem. Traditional physiotherapy often emphasizes physical recovery while overlooking psychosocial aspects. Psychomotor Physical Therapy (PMP), a body–mind intervention, may bridge this gap by integrating movement, body awareness, and emotional reflection. To assess the impact of Psychomotor Physical Therapy on self-esteem among community-dwelling individuals with locomotor disabilities. A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 participants aged 18–60 years, diagnosed with locomotor disabilities (e.g., stroke, polio, amputation). Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 20) that received weekly PMP for 6 months or a control group (n = 20) that received no intervention. Self-esteem was measured at baseline and post-intervention using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. The PMP group showed a significant improvement in self-esteem scores (mean increase = 10.2 ± 2.1), compared to the control group (mean increase = 0.5 ± 2.3), with a statistically significant between-group difference (t = 4.89, p < 0.001). Following the intervention, 55% of the PMP group achieved high self-esteem, compared to only 10% in the control group. Psychomotor Physical Therapy significantly enhances self-esteem in individuals with locomotor disabilities by addressing both physical and psychological dimensions. These findings support the inclusion of mind–body therapies like PMP in community-based rehabilitation programs to promote holistic recovery and improve quality of life. Psychomotor Physical Therapy, Locomotor Disability, Self-Esteem, Holistic Rehabilitation, Body Awareness Therapy, Randomised Controlled Trial.