Role Of Physiotherapy In Improving Physical And Psychological Dimensions Of Sexual Health In Post-Stroke Survivors-A Randomized Control Trail

Abstract

Background & purpose: Sexual dysfunction being an important disability of stroke, which is often least addressed by the patient as well as health care workers and can influence the quality of living among the stroke survivors as well as their partners in a negative way. The present study was conducted with an aim to examine the effect of sexual rehabilitation in the form of structured Physiotherapy and counseling on physical and psychological dimensions of sexual health in post-stroke patients. Materials and Methods:The two groups of the study were Group A (Control group) who were given routine Physiotherapy with no emphasis of sexual health, Group B (Experimental Group) who were given routine Physiotherapy and Sexual rehabilitation by Structured Physiotherapy and Counseling.The physical and psychological dimensions of sexual health were assessed by CSFQ-14 male and female, DASS-21 for Depression, anxiety and stress levels pre-test and after six months follow up. Results:The analyses of CSFQ-14 and Depression, Anxiety, Stress Sub scores of DASS-21 from baseline to 6 months in Group A and Group B are found to be significant. There was significant improvement in physical and psychological dimensions of sexual health in experimental group i.e Group B. Conclusion:From this study it is concluded that Physiotherapy in the form of a structured rehabilitation program and verbal communication improves the Physical and Psychological dimensions of sexual health in Post-stroke patients.