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Efficacy of an Aquatic Exercise Program for 3 Cases of Rett Syndrome
Lourdes Escobar Torres1, Mary E Sanders, Charo Belenguer Benitez
1Department for Equality and Inclusive Policies (Dr Escobar Torres), Generalitat Valenciana, Castellon, Spain; School of Medicine and School of Public Health (Dr Sanders), Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada; Aquatic Fitness Association of Castellón (Ms Belenguer Benitez), Castellón, Spain; ImFine Research Group (Dr Melendez Ortega), Polytechnic University of Madrid, Spain.
Aquatic exercise improved functional abilities, mood, and physical health in girls with Rett syndrome (RS). This pilot study suggests water-based programs may benefit children with this neurodevelopmental disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Rett syndrome (RS) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder impacting neuromotor and cognitive functions.
- Children with RS experience significant disabilities requiring specialized therapeutic interventions.
- Aquatic exercise offers a low-impact environment for therapeutic interventions.
Observation:
- Three girls (ages 4-7) with Stage III RS participated in a 20-month tailored aquatic exercise program.
- The program incorporated progressive, full-body exercises targeting functional, cardiorespiratory, muscle, and flexibility training.
- Assessments included physiological measures (heart rate), anthropometrics, functional abilities, and psychosocial status.
Findings:
- Participants demonstrated significant improvements in functional ability, mood, and social interactions.
- Joint mobility, muscle strength, and endurance during activities increased.
- Cardiorespiratory stimulus was evidenced by a 33% average increase in exercise heart rate above baseline.
Implications:
- This pilot study provides a clinical rationale for aquatic exercise interventions in children with Rett syndrome.
- Findings support the potential of tailored aquatic programs to enhance physical and psychosocial well-being in RS.
- Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and broader applicability of aquatic therapy for neurodevelopmental disorders.
