Efficacy of Advanced Depression Rehabilitation through Movement and Relaxation Combined with Pharmacological Treatment, on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Levels: A Case Report

Abstract

Background and Aims: Depression is a common mental illness worldwide and has a major impact on individuals and society. Pharmacological treatments are essential and widely used, but they carry notable adverse effects. This case report examines the combined use of an ADR-MR intervention and medication for depression. Outcomes were assessed by changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and clinical evaluations Case Description: A 21-year-old male diagnosed with depression was referred to the Neuro-Physiotherapy Outpatient Department. After obtaining informed consent, he was enrolled in the study following a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that included the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The intervention consisted of ADR-MR sessions five days per week, in addition to medication, for four weeks. On day 0, baseline serum BDNF levels and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores were recorded. On days 14 and 21, the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) scale was used to monitor progress. On day 28, BDNF levels, MADRS, and HDRS were reassessed. Results: The combination of ADR-MR and pharmacological treatment was associated with significant improvements in BDNF levels and in MADRS and HDRS scores. CGI-S decreased from 3 to 1; CGI-G (global improvement) changed from 1 to 2; and the CGI-E (efficacy index) improved from minimal to moderate. Conclusion: The ADR-MR regimen can improve BDNF levels in a depressed individual in addition to the pharmacological treatment, which will decrease depression symptoms, enhance therapeutic results, and improve the patient's quality of life.