What About the Differences in Body Representation and Body Image Between Stroke Patients and Healthy Controls? Psychological and Clinical Implications

Abstract

Introduction

The integrity of body representation can be profoundly compromised in neurological patients. This study aims to evaluate body representation in both healthy individuals and stroke patients.

Material and Methods

The study included 40 chronic stroke patients recruited from the Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo,” and 40 healthy controls from the University of Messina. Both groups were age- and gender-matched. All participants completed the Body Uneasiness Test to assess body image discomfort and body schema accuracy.

Results

A total of 80 participants were enrolled, divided equally into two groups matched by gender: stroke patients and healthy controls. Healthy controls showed higher scores in compulsive self-monitoring (p = 0.023), while stroke patients exhibited greater depersonalization (p = 0.039) and significantly higher psychological distress (p ≤ 0.001).

Discussion

These findings underscore the complexity of bodily and psychological experiences in both health and disease, emphasizing the need for tailored clinical interventions. While the direct impact on quality of life may vary, addressing these issues can contribute to improved overall well-being for both groups.