Revista de fisioterapia y rehabilitación física

Enhancing Lower Limb Function with Hydrotherapy in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Abstract

Alina Joy*

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) often leads to significant impairments in lower limb function, limiting mobility and independence in affected individuals. Hydrotherapy, a therapeutic approach utilizing water-based exercises, has emerged as a promising intervention for enhancing lower limb function in SCI patients. This article reviews the current literature on the use of hydrotherapy in the context of SCI rehabilitation, focusing on its impact on lower limb functionality. The abstract summarizes key findings from studies evaluating the effects of hydrotherapy on muscle strength, joint mobility, spasticity, and overall gait performance in individuals with spinal cord injuries. By exploring the physiological and biomechanical mechanisms underlying hydrotherapy's benefits, this review highlights the potential of water-based exercises to provide a supportive and low-impact environment for promoting neurorehabilitation and functional recovery in the lower limbs of SCI patients. As researchers continue to elucidate the optimal protocols and strategies for incorporating hydrotherapy into SCI rehabilitation programs, this approach holds promise in empowering individuals with SCI to regain and enhance their lower limb function, ultimately improving their quality of life and autonomy.