Combining traditional context and sailing in the psychological approach to patients with muscular dystrophies. A pilot study.

Abstract

Introduction: Muscular diseases (MDs) are rare genetic conditions marked by progressive motor, cardiac, and respiratory decline, often accompanied by significant psychological and social challenges. Anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life (QoL) are common among individuals with MDs, highlighting the importance of integrating psychological assessment and support into multidisciplinary care. Although evidence on psychosocial interventions remains limited, emerging research suggests that nature-based therapeutic activities -particularly adapted sailing - can reduce anxiety and enhance psychological well-being in people with various disabilities. Recent studies indicate improvements in state anxiety, QoL, and respiratory perception associated with exposure to the marine environment.

Patients and methods: Based on this evidence, the multidisciplinary team of the Naples NeMO Clinical Center developed the "Anima Libera" project, a sailing-based therapeutic program aimed at evaluating the psychological and clinical effects of an integrated intervention for individuals with muscular diseases.

The project included 12 patients with different types of muscular dystrophies aged between 28 and 55 years.

Results: All patients showed an improvement in psychological well-being and respiratory parameters.

Discussion and conclusions: These data, although preliminary indicate that sailing could act as a complementary therapeutic tool within psychological support and rehabilitation programs for patients with muscle diseases.