Positive Effect of Isostretching in Aquatic Environment on Muscle Flexibility in Elderly People

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Flexibility reduces with age due to insufficient activity of the neuromuscular system, disuse of the skeletal muscles, and a lack of physical conditioning, therefore resulting in decreased autonomy and inability to perform daily activities. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of Isostretching in aquatic environment on muscle flexibility of elderly people. METHODS: A longitudinal, nearly experimental, uncontrolled study conducted with 26 individuals of both sexes, average age 67.5 ± 7 years, evaluated in terms of lower limb flexibility through the "sit and reach" test before and after a 12-week session of Isostretching in aquatic environment. The sample was tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and the pre and post practice results were compared using the Wilcoxon test, considering p < 0.05. RESULTS: When comparing pre and post results of Isostretching in aquatic environment, a significant improvement (p < 0.05) was observed in the posterior chain flexibility (12.5 cm) of lower limbs in the studied group. CONCLUSION: Isostretching performed in aquatic environment improved the posterior chain flexibility of lower limbs in a group of elderly people.

Keywords

• elderly
• hydrotherapy
• muscle stretching exercises