Hidroterapia como Intervenção para Melhoria da Qualidade de Vida e Autonomia em Pacientes Pós-AVC.
Hidroterapia como Intervenção para Melhoria da Qualidade de Vida e Autonomia em Pacientes Pós-AVC.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.82081925231012
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Palavras-chave: Hidroterapia; Acidente vascular cerebral; Reabilitação; Qualidade de vida.
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Keywords: Hydrotherapy; Stroke; Rehabilitation; Quality of life.
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Abstract: Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and functional dependence worldwide, affecting mobility, balance, and autonomy in affected individuals. Recovery after the event is often slow and challenging, requiring innovative therapeutic approaches. In this context, hydrotherapy stands out as a promising alternative, using the physical properties of water buoyancy, viscosity, and hydrostatic pressure to reduce joint impact, facilitate movement, and promote physical and emotional well-being. In addition to restoring motor functions, aquatic therapy contributes to strengthening self-esteem, confidence, and functional independence. Therefore, this study aims to understand how hydrotherapy positively influences the quality of life and autonomy of chronic post-stroke patients, contributing to a more humane, effective, and comprehensive rehabilitation process. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review of a qualitative nature, with an exploratory and analytical character. The research was conducted in scientific databases such as PubMed, SciELO, PEDro, LILACS, and Cochrane Library, covering publications between 2017 and 2025. Studies in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were included, addressing adults diagnosed with chronic stroke who underwent hydrotherapy as a therapeutic intervention. The methodological process followed six stages: formulation of the research question, database search, study selection, data extraction, critical analysis, and interpretation of results. The qualitative approach made it possible to understand not only the objective outcomes such as improvements in strength, balance, and mobility but also the subjective and emotional aspects associated with the aquatic therapy experience. Development: The selected studies indicate that hydrotherapy provides significant improvements in motor function, postural control, and functional independence of post-stroke patients. Clinical trials demonstrated remarkable gains in muscle strength, gait speed, and ability to perform daily living activities. Additionally, emotional benefits were observed, such as reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, due to the supportive aquatic environment that enhances confidence and enjoyment during exercises. Systematic reviews reinforce the effectiveness of hydrotherapy compared to land-based physiotherapy, although they highlight the need for standardized intervention protocols and larger sample sizes. It was also observed that water facilitates the movement of spastic limbs, reduces muscle stiffness, and stimulates neuroplasticity, promoting motor relearning. Results: The analysis of publications from 2017 to 2025 confirms the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in the functional and psychological recovery of patients with stroke sequelae. The results include improved balance, motor coordination, autonomy, and performance on functional independence scales. Participants reported sensations of lightness, safety, and well-being factors that encourage treatment adherence and enhance quality of life. However, studies still present methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. Conclusion: It is concluded that hydrotherapy is an effective, safe, and humanized intervention for post-stroke rehabilitation. Its therapeutic properties promote motor and emotional recovery, stimulate neuroplasticity, and contribute to strengthening autonomy and quality of life.
- Francisca Souza Santos
- Hemelli da Costa Pantoja
- Paulo Victor dos Santos Oliveira