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Posted by on Oct 25, 2018 in Parkinson's Disease | 0 comments

In a nutshell

This study investigated the effectiveness of hydrotherapy (HT; physical exercise done in a pool) in the treatment of Parkinson´s disease symptoms. Researchers suggested that HT helps patients manage their symptoms. 

Some background

Parkinson´s disease is a degenerative disease that affects brain cells. This can cause symptoms such as tremor, muscle rigidity, and impaired balance. Difficulty in movements can lead patients to have an inactive life. It is well known that physical inactivity affects Parkinson´s outcomes, reduces the quality of life and increases the risk of falls.

HT has been largely used as a rehabilitation therapy for patients with physical disorders. Moreover, physical exercise in the water is safer since it reduces the fear and risk of falling. However, the effectiveness of HT in patients with Parkinson´s disease is still not clear.

Methods & findings

This study reviewed 19 other studies on HT in patients with PD. It included information about 484 patients overall. These patients underwent either HT or land-based physical exercise or no physical exercise at all. The authors looked at patients' balance, overall symptoms and quality of life.

HT was associated with improved outcomes in balance and in daily living physical movements when compared to land exercises or no physical exercise.

Patients who had HT reported a better quality of life than those who had land exercises.

The bottom line

This study determined that HT is associated with improved outcomes of Parkinson´s symptoms and increased quality of life.

Published By :

PM & R: the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation

Date :

Sep 25, 2018

Original Title :

Is hydrotherapy effective to improve balance, functional mobility, motor status, and quality of life in subjects with Parkinson’s disease? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

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