Studija slučaja

https://doi.org/10.24869/psyd.2026.84

Integrating Pilates and myofunctional therapy for better sleep and psychosocial outcomes in obesity-associated obstructive sleep apnea

R Jayabharathi orcid.org/0000-0002-2467-3942 ; Faculty of Physiotherapy, Dr.MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India *
K Ramalakshmi ; Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Physiotherapy, Sri Ramachandra Institute of higher education and Research, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India

* Dopisni autor.

Sažetak

Background: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repeated upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and reduced psychosocial functioning. Obesity is a major risk factor that increases both the likelihood and severity of OSA, further affecting physical and mental health. Although continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard treatment, alternative non-pharmacological approaches such as Pilates and myofunctional therapy may provide additional benefits.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining Pilates and myofunctional therapy in improving sleep quality and psychosocial well-being in an individual with obesity-associated OSA.

Methods: A case study was conducted in a clinical rehabilitation setting involving a 45-year-old male diagnosed with moderate OSA (Apnea-Hypopnea Index = 25) and obesity (BMI = 34 kg/m²). The participant completed an 8-week intervention program consisting of Pilates and myofunctional therapy, each performed for 30 minutes, three times per week. Outcome measures included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36), which assessed physical health, mental health, and vitality. Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared.

Results: Post-intervention results demonstrated improvements in both sleep quality and quality of life. The PSQI score decreased from 7 to 4. SF-36 scores improved in physical health (55 to 68), mental health (48 to 62), and vitality (60 to 68). The participant also reported reduced daytime sleepiness, better mood, enhanced social interaction, and increased confidence.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that combining Pilates and myofunctional therapy may be a useful non-pharmacological strategy to improve sleep and psychosocial outcomes in individuals with obesity-associated OSA.

Ključne riječi

obstructive sleep apnea; obesity; exercise therapy; oropharyngeal exercises; sleep quality; psychosocial factors

Hrčak ID:

347063

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/347063

Datum izdavanja:

30.4.2026.

Posjeta: 197 *