Efeitos de um programa de atividades aquáticas na função motora grossa e desempenho funcional de um adolescente com paralisia cerebral

Abstract

Cerebral palsy affects motor development, and consequently functional performance. This is due to inadequate tonus and persistent reflexive movements. To minimize these effects, interventions are used, with aquatic activities being one of the most adequate. Purpose: The main objective of the present study was to identify the effects of aquatic activities on gross motor function and functional performance of an adolescent with cerebral palsy. Methods: The research refers to a pre-experimental case study, which had the participation of a twelve-year-old adolescent, participant of APAE of São José dos Pinhais. Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) was used to evaluate gross motor function, a practical test composed of 88 items, divided into five dimensions: lying down and rolling; to sit; crawl and kneel; standing; walk run and jump. Functional performance was assessed using the Pediatric Evaluation Disability Inventory (PEDI), which addresses performance in self-care, mobility and social function activities. The tests were applied at two different times before the start and end of the intervention program. The analysis was made from the percentage differences calculated according to the crude score of the different moments. Results: There were improvements mainly in functional skills in the area of self care (6.9%) and mobility (6.8%), decrease in the need for care of the caregiver and the difference in standing ability (15.4%) and in the walking, running and jumping (11.1%) that suggest improvements in dynamic and static balance. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that, despite the low number of sessions, the aquatic exercise program had positive effects on gross motor function and functional performance, where the main items that presented evolution were related to improvement of the balance.