Effects of a 3-month Physical Activity program on Manual Dexterity and Physical Activity levels in a woman with schizophrenia: A case study

Female patients with schizophrenia have a less severe form of the disorder, when compare to male patients. Individuals with schizophrenia have deficits in Manual Dexterity (MD) and low Physical Activity (PA) levels which commit their daily life activities. The PA practice has shown beneficial effects on motor abilities in healthy individuals. However, it is still unknown the benefits that PA promotes on MD of individuals with schizophrenia. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 3-month PA program on MD and PA level, in a woman with schizophrenia. The participant was tested at baseline and at the end of the program. The PA program improved the performance on global manual dexterity (only both hands simultaneously) and on fine manual dexterity, as well as, increased the PA level. These results could have a positive impact on ability to perform daily life activities and quality of life of woman with schizophrenia.