The effect of hydrotherapy on the symptoms and functional characteristics of multiple sclerosis patients

Abstract

Aim: A review of the literature on the effect of hydrotherapy on the symptoms of fatigue, pain, spasticity as well as on the balance and gait of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Method: Search databases such as MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Science Direct and PEDro were used to search the literature. The inclusion criteria were studies that included physiotherapy and mainly hydrotherapy as a means of rehabilitation in MS. Results: Hydrotherapy programs significantly reduced the symptoms of fatigue, pain, spasticity as well as significantly improved balance and gait in patients with MS, as reflected in the evaluation tests. Conclusions: Hydrotherapy is proposed as a safe, effective and enjoyable method of rehabilitation in patients with MS to reduce symptoms and improve balance and gait.