Efecto de un programa de ejercicios físicos en la mejora de pacientes con secuelas psicológicas pos-chikungunya

Abstract

Introduction: Despite growing concern about post-chikungunya sequelae, scientific literature on psychological effects is scarce.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a physical exercise program on the improvement of patients with psychological sequelae post-chikungunya.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at two times (before and after the implementation of a physical exercise program), without a control group, at the "East Area" University Teaching Polyclinic in Camagüey. The research took place within the framework of the Multidisciplinary Consultation, from December 16, 2025, to March 17, 2026. The study involved a population of 24 patients with psychological sequelae post-chikungunya treated during the first two weeks after the consultation began. The variables studied were related to clinical symptoms grouped into mood and affective disorders, anxiety and stress disorders, cognitive and functional impairments, impact on self-image and self-perception, as well as alterations in biological rhythms and physical-mental well-being.

Results: The implementation of the physical exercise program had a significant effect in reducing symptoms such as anhedonia, fear of disability, decreased executive function, feelings of worthlessness, and insomnia secondary to pain.

Conclusions: The research demonstrated that the exercise program significantly contributed to the improvement of the psychological well-being of patients with post-chikungunya sequelae, showing a reduction in emotional symptoms; therefore, its implementation is recommended in similar contexts.