Güeita (2010) aquatic therapy and Multiple Sclerosis (spanish)

Introduction: The Role of Aquatic Therapy in Neurological Conditions
Aquatic therapy, with its roots in ancient civilizations, has evolved significantly, especially post-World War 2, to become a crucial component in treating neurological deficits like polio. This review aims to scrutinize the effectiveness of aquatic exercises in managing multiple sclerosis (MS), focusing on clinical symptoms and daily living activities.

Methodology: Comprehensive Literature Search
A thorough literature search from April 2004 to February 2010 across databases like Cochrane, PEDro, CINAHL, and PubMed was conducted to gather relevant studies. The inclusion criteria encompassed all ages and both genders diagnosed with MS, with interventions led by physical therapists. The primary outcome measures included scales like EDSS, Ashworth, Oxford, Tinetti, and the Fatigue Severity Scale, among others.

Findings: Limited Evidence and Methodological Challenges
The review encountered a notable scarcity of randomized clinical trials, with only descriptive observational studies making the cut. The methodological diversity and the lack of control groups in these studies posed significant challenges, preventing a comprehensive analysis and comparison of aquatic therapy against other treatment modalities.

Conclusion: The Need for High-Quality Research
The review concludes with an acknowledgment of aquatic therapy’s potential benefits in MS treatment, particularly in muscle toning, balance, endurance, and psychological well-being. However, the absence of high-quality evidence and the methodological limitations of the included studies highlight an urgent need for well-designed trials to substantiate aquatic therapy’s role in MS management.

Keywords: Aquatic Therapy, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Conditions, Systematic Review, Rehabilitation, Clinical Symptoms, Daily Activities.