Abordagem da fisioterapia aquática na dor, flexibilidade, capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida de pacientes com espondilite anquilosante

Abstract

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AE) is a chronic rheumatic disease capable of generating severe physical and functional impairments. Therefore, the article aimed to analyze the performance of Aquatic Physical Therapy in patients with AS in the face of pain, functionality, physical capacity, thoracic expandability and morning stiffness. This is an original article of quantitative character and clinical intervention, with a sample of three participants. An evaluation and reassessment was performed using its own form, containing sociodemographic and clinical variables, as well as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Spondylitis Functionality Index (BASFI - adapted), Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF36), mobility tests and flexibility testing. Theresearch was divided into stages, the first with the objective of reducing pain and stiffness; the second benefited the decrease in fatigue and mobility gain; the 3rd contributed to the increase in muscle strength. The results found after the intervention were significant, there was a reduction in pain in all patients, improvement in physical and functional capacity, significant increase in flexibility (average: >5), mobility (average: >4), and quality of life of the participants. Finally, we highlight the importance of the comprehensive look on the part of professionals and the need for centralized care in these patients, due to the lack of guidance for individuals with Ankylosing Spondylitis, as well as the scarcity of scientific evidence that addresses the physiotherapeutic treatments aimed at these patients.