NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL REHABILITATION FOR ATHLETES AND PATIENTS WITH PANIC DISORDERS

Abstract

Aim. This paper aims to compare the efficacy of a comprehensive non-pharmacological rehabilitation protocol for athletes and patients with panic disorders. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Department of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Ural State University of Physical Education), the Professor Kinzersky Clinic, and Sonar LLC. Participants included 120 athletes and 84 patients with panic disorders and 25 healthy age-matched controls. All participants underwent an evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics. An individualized training regimen was developed using the Carbonic treatment and diagnostic device (developed by Prof. V.P. Kulikov). Results. The exami­nation revealed that athletes and patients who underwent rehabilitation – comprising fascial manipulation, Jacobson’s relaxation technique, and intermittent hypoxic training (Carbonic) – exhibited correction of muscle tonic and hyperventilation syndrome. Furthermore, the intervention facilitated the restoration of venous outflow in the carotid and vertebrobasilar arteries, improved cardiovascular reactivity to hypercapnia, and was associated with significant clinical improvement. Conclusion. Within the context of strict anti-doping regulations, it is critically important that this comprehensive rehabilitation program – which utilizes intermittent hypoxic training – constitutes a non-pharmacological means of enhancing adaptive reserves for athletes and patients with panic disorders.