BENEFÍCIOS DO BAD RAGAZ NA REABILITAÇÃO DE LESÕES MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS: REVISÃO BIBLIOMÉTRICA
BENEFÍCIOS DO BAD RAGAZ NA REABILITAÇÃO DE LESÕES MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS: REVISÃO BIBLIOMÉTRICA
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.8208162501105
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Palavras-chave: Método Bad Ragaz. Fisioterapia aquática. Reabilitação musculoesquelética. Exercícios terapêuticos. Qualidade de vida.
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Keywords: Bad Ragaz Method. Aquatic physiotherapy. Musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Therapeutic exercises. Quality of life.
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Abstract: The Bad Ragaz Method (BRM) is an aquatic physiotherapy technique based on Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), performed with the assistance of floaters and guided by the therapist. It uses the physical properties of water—such as buoyancy, thrust, hydrostatic pressure, and resistance—to reduce joint overload, relieve pain, and facilitate movements that would often not be possible on land. In addition to the mechanical effects, warm water between 30 °C and 34 °C promotes muscle relaxation, improves circulation, reduces spasms, and increases comfort during treatment. Studies show the benefits of BRM in different musculoskeletal conditions, such as low back pain, arthritis, tendinitis, and injuries to the knee and hip, as well as neurological disorders, such as in post-stroke patients. The main improvements observed include increased strength, range of motion, balance, postural control, gait enhancement, and pain reduction, resulting in a better quality of life. Comparisons with conventional land-based therapies indicate significant advantages of the aquatic method, especially in muscle activation and acceleration of functional recovery. The literature review included 12 studies, encompassing clinical trials, case studies, reviews, and observational research. The findings confirm the positive effects of the method but point out limitations such as small sample sizes, population heterogeneity, and protocol diversity, which hinder standardization of results. Nevertheless, there is consensus regarding the therapeutic potential of BRM, both in rehabilitative and preventive contexts, especially for older adults and athletes exposed to musculoskeletal overload. It is concluded that the Bad Ragaz Method is an effective and versatile tool for musculoskeletal rehabilitation and should be incorporated as a complementary resource in physiotherapy. The physiotherapist’s role is essential to adapt exercises to individual needs, enhancing the benefits. Further controlled clinical trials are recommended to consolidate its application in standardized protocols.
- Daniely Neves dos Reis
- Karine da Silva Silva
- Paulo de Albuquerque Chagas
- Simone Malaquias da Silva
- Paulo Victor dos Santos Oliveira