Ready to Sail: Evaluating Sailing's Feasibility as Ergotherapy

Plain-language summary

Background Individuals with rare skeletal disorders frequently experience psychological distress, social isolation, unmet needs, and significant challenges due to limited treatment options. Adventure Therapy, employing exposure to natural environments, has shown promise in improving self-esteem, autonomy, and social skills in chronic illness and disability populations. This pilot study explores the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a sailing-based intervention for enhancing physical, social, and psychological well-being in this specific population. Outcome Measures The primary outcome is to investigates the feasibility of sailing to improve well-being and quality of life in patients living with rare skeletal disorders. Furthermore, the investigators hypothesize that participation in a sailing program led by occupational therapists will lead to improvements in: * Movement confidence: assessing whether sailing enhances participants' ability to move and perform daily activities. * Mental health: evaluating if sailing reduces anxiety and fear and promotes self-esteem. * Social interaction: exploring if sailing fosters social connection and reduces feelings of isolation. Methods The study will use a prospective, single-arm, longitudinal design. Eight participants with rare skeletal disorders will be enrolled in a 5-day sailing-based occupational therapy intervention. Comprehensive pre- and post-intervention assessments will measure psychosocial factors, quality of life, functional mobility, kinesiophobia, and body segment movement using questionnaires and functional scales.

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Trial details