Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) may significantly impact occupational performance and participation. Physical activity interventions are beneficial for individuals with SUD and can be delivered by occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs). We aimed to evaluate the current evidence for physical activity interventions within the scope of occupational therapy (OT) for treating SUDs. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines for data abstraction and assessment, including 28 articles in this review. Searches were conducted in Medline, APA PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, and OTSeeker from September 2021 to August 2023. Physical activity interventions included yoga, tai chi, comprehensive integrated approaches (CIA), high-intensity/circuit training, and music/dance interventions. Yoga, tai chi, CIA, and high-intensity exercise significantly reduced substance use and cravings. Tai chi, CIA, and dance/music interventions decreased stress and improved mental health and sleep outcomes. This review provides a foundation for advancing OTP-directed physical activity interventions in SUD-related rehabilitation and recovery.
Plain Language Summary
Existing evidence was reviewed to better understand physical activity options for individuals with substance use disorder and how occupational therapy practitioners can incorporate these activities into their client sessions. Previous research supports that aerobic exercise, physical activity, and group-based exercises can help reduce substance cravings, lower the risk of relapse, and improve mood and motivation. In this review, physical activities examined included yoga, tai chi, comprehensive integrated approaches (CIA), high-intensity or circuit training, and music and dance activities. There is strong evidence that physical activity enhances outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders. Occupational therapy practitioners can implement physical activity into their treatment sessions to support individuals in substance use rehabilitation and recovery through integrating walking, jogging, cardiovascular training, strength training, yoga, tai chi, and dance.
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