Effects of aquatic therapy Vs land-based therapy on motor disorders in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of developmental disorders of movement and posture that cause activity limitation. It is the most common physical disability in childhood. Physiotherapy plays a very important role in the rehabilitation of these patients. Hydrotherapy provides great sensory and proprioceptive stimulation to the nervous system, providing new motor adaptations. This therapy in children has a great playful and educational value.
Objectives: To review the effectiveness of therapy in the aquatic environment in the gross motor function of children with CP, compared to interventions on land.
Method: A review was carried out following the PRISMA criteria with searches in PubMed, PEDro and WOS on the treatment of children with CP in the aquatic environment. The methodological quality of these has been evaluated through the PEDro scale.
Results: Five articles that fulfilled the selected selection criteria have been selected. There is an improvement in gross motor function and it is even maintained over a period of 10 weeks. The enjoyment and adherence in this medium is greater against the gravel.
Conclusion: Physiotherapeutic intervention in the aquatic environment provides greater benefits in gross motor function in children with CP, compared to interventions carried out in the land environment.
Keywords: Hydrotherapy; Cerebral palsy; Pediatrics; Gross Motricity; Neurology, Physiotherapy; Spasticity.