Improved self-esteem after mat Pilates method intervention in breast cancer women undergoing hormone therapy: randomized clinical trial pilot study

Abstract

The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to analyze the effects of 16 weeks of mat Pilates method intervention in self-esteem and depressive symptoms in women with breast cancer undergoing hormone therapy. Thirty-four women were randomized in Pilates group (PG) (n=18) and control group (CG) (n=16). The intervention occurs for 16 weeks, three times per week for 60 minutes each session (light to very hard intensity according to BORG scale). The CG received three educational sessions and was invited to maintain their routine activities. The data collection took place at the baseline and post-intervention. A questionnaire was applied including Self-Esteem Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory. Anova Two way with repeated measures and Sydak comparison test was used to analyze the effects in the variables after the 16 weeks intervention. Two types of analysis were performed after the intervention, in the analysis by intention to treat PG (n=18) the self-esteem variable showed a significant result (p=0.011) and in the analysis by PG protocol (n=11) (p=0.013). The depressive symptoms did not demonstrate significant improvements after the intervention. Control group did not present any significant changes during the time of the study. The 16 weeks of PG was an effective intervention to improve self-esteem of women with breast cancer undergoing hormone therapy.