The effect of hydrotherapy on the functioning and quality of life of children and young adults with cerebral palsy

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of paralysis in infancy and childhood. There is evidence that the integration of hydrotherapy in the treatment program can significantly contribute to the rehabilitation of children and young people with CP by improving their functional limitations and overall, their quality of life. The purpose of this review was to present recent research data on the contribution and efficacy of hydrotherapy in the rehabilitation of children and young adults with CP. The Google Scholar and PubMed databases were searched with the following keywords: cerebral palsy, hydrotherapy, rehabilitation. This review included 11 articles. The results of our research show that hydrotherapy, both as an individual treatment and in combination with a standard land-based exercise program, can significantly contribute to the improvement of gross mobility, the improvement of exercise endurance and the improvement of the quality of life of people with CP. Ideal dosage of hydrotherapy programs, according to the research included in the review is 2-3 sessions per week for more than six weeks. However, it should be noted that the literature is still limited and further research is needed.