Legal and Ethical Issues Related to Physiotherapy Treatment of Adolescents with Eating Disorders (Bulimia and Anorexia Nervosa): A Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: Eating disorders are disruptions in eating patterns accompanied by exaggerated body image concerns that harm physical well-being, psychosocial, and physiological functioning. It is manifesting as the 10th leading cause of disability among the young.
Methodology: This is a narrative review. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and key resources like WHO guidelines and consent laws using Boolean terms such as “physiotherapy,” “adolescent,” “eating disorders,” and “informed consent” (2010–2024, English only) were used as a search strategy. From 85 sources, only 12 final articles were synthesized after eligibility checks.
Result: Globally, physical activity is recognized by medical professionals as a crucial element of a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity has broad positive effects on children and adolescents, improving psychological functioning, body acceptance and quality of life. Laws pertaining to mental health are crucial; patients should receive quality care and it is important to safeguard the rights of patients. India formerly led the developing world to transition the care to people with mental illness from asylums to community-based therapies, but results were less than ideal due to unclear laws and policies.
Conclusion: Physiotherapy is vital in reducing symptoms, improving the condition of adolescents with eating disorders and treatment requires legal and ethical clearance.