Benefits of aquatic exercise therapy on locomotion in low back pain subjects: a narrative literature review

Abstract

The purpose of this narrative literature review was to analyze the effects of aquatic exercise therapy on low back pain, specifically focusing on gait disorders. Approximately 80% of the population will experience an episode of low back pain in some point of their lives, particularly with aging. Low back pain have high social and health care cost, both for its prevalence, as for its cost regarding reduced or productivity lost. Etiology of low back pain is not fully comprehended, but some behavioral determinants can lead to its development and persistence. This health disorder leads to pain, disability, and alterations in walking and muscular activation patterns. Possible treatments for individuals with low back pain vary and present different levels of improvement and include medication, physiotherapy, aquatic physiotherapy, a range of manual therapies, and adapted exercises. The primary goal of treatment should be pain relief, strengthening of trunk muscles, trunk mobility, aerobic exercises and behavior education. The aquatic therapy is a promising and interesting non-invasive intervention for the gait disorders of individuals with low back pain, but more consistent and controlled studies are necessary to judge the effectiveness of this treatment.