USO DO AMBIENTE AQUÁTICO PARA APLICAÇÃO DE TESTES FUNCIONAIS: BENEFÍCIOS E DESAFIOS FRENTE AO TESTE REALIZADO EM SOLO

Abstract

Hydrotherapy represents a promising treatment for individuals with severe disabilities. The physical properties of water can provide great freedom of movement, buoyancy, and reduce weight-bearing. However, many professionals assess a patient's motor functions on land even when aquatic therapy is indicated. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the response of functional tests performed in an aquatic environment compared to tests performed on land. Forty healthy subjects, 22 women, mean age of 22.8 ± 2.9 years, were enrolled in this study. Participants underwent the following tests, applied on land and in a 1.2m depth poll: the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), the 2-minute step test (2MST), and the Timed Get Up and Go (TUG) test. Perceived exertion of the participants was measured using the Borg scale. Paired Student-t tests were used. Participants walked a shorter distance in the water during the 6MWT and took a longer time to complete the TUG test. No significant difference was observed in the number of steps taken during the 2MST. The perceived exertion was lower in the water for the 2MST, but higher for the 6MWT. There was no difference in perceived exertion for the TUG. Water resistance apparently made some functional speed tests more difficult to the participants. The perceived physical exertion in the water was lower only for the 2MST. Further research should be conducted to determine if the pattern observed in this study with healthy individuals is consistent with that seen in patients with disabilities.