Abstract:

Objective: In Northern European countries, Basic Body Awareness Therapy which is frequently used in the rehabilitation of patients with chronic musculoskeletal problems and psychiatric disorders and aimed at mind-body unity is a bio-psycho-social and existential movement therapy. This review aims to analyze in which patient groups the Basic Body Awareness Therapy was evaluated, with which variables it was studied, and which effects were documented. Material and Method: MEDLINE/PubMed and PEDro databases were searched between January 2000 and December 2020. The search resulted in a total of 19 studies using the Basic Body Awareness Therapy method, and 13 research articles were selected according to inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the included studies was also assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale. Results: Basic Body Awareness Therapy had an effect on body awareness, quality of movement, quality of life, self-efficacy, body dissatisfaction, physical coping resources, anxiety, pain severity, and scoliosis findings. Conclusion: The evidence supports the use of Basic Body Awareness Therapy to alleviate symptoms both for patients with musculoskeletal problems and mental health/ psychiatric disorders. In addition to studies with long-term follow-up, randomized controlled studies with a high level of evidence are needed.

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