PHYSICAL THERAPY RESOURCES USED IN THE TREATMENT OF MOST COMMON DISEASES IN ELDERY: A REVIEW STUDY

Abstract

Objective: Present the main therapeutical resources applied at eldery rehabilitation, according to their most common diseases. Methodology: Scientific articles were selected, based at Pubmed, Medline, Bireme and Scielo, following specific indicators. Results: 17 scientific articles were selected in English and Portuguese idioms. In order to strength this study, 3 books were included as reference. Main findings: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis are the commonly neurological disease among eldery. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the most common orthopaedical diseases among eldery. The participation of eldery in regular physical activities decreases the functional limitation. Kinesiotherapy and hydrokinesiotherapy results in articular motion improvement. Muscle stretching are recommended for eldery because of the flexibility empowerment. Electrothermalphototherapy can be helpful in the treatment of the eldery musculoskeletal diseases. Conclusion: The common diseases in eldery are stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis,
rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The most frequently forms of physical therapy interventions can occur performing Kinesiotherapy, muscle stretching, hydrokinesiotherapy, and electrothermalphototherapy resources.