Bobath method in hemiparesia in patients affected by stroke: an integrative review

Abstract

Introduction. The most common sequel of stroken is hemiparesis, characterized by several motor, sensitive and cognitive alterations. Physical terapy is fundamental for the care of these individuals, who have therapeutic options such as the neuroevolutionary Bobath concept. Objective. To carry out a literature review on the contributions of the Bobath method in the rehabilition of hemiparesis in stroke. Method. An integrative literature review carried out in the databases PUBMED, Latin American and Caribbean Information System in Health Sciences (LILACS), Scientific lectronic Library (SciELO), and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). Experimental articles published in the last 10 years, available in full, in Portuguese, English and Spanish, that referred to hemiparesis or associated functions and that would use the Bobath method as a form of treatment, alone or associated with other therapies, were included. Results. Ten studies were considered eligible. It was identified that the use of the Bobath method was related to functionality gain, such as speed and gait quality, movement, and muscle strength, but it was not more effective than other methods in improving cognition, proprioception and sensory and functional balance. Conclusion. The choice of protocols depended on the conditions of each patient, but it is accepted that the increase in training time and intensity is associated with better results, as well as the follow-up of exercises after discharge. It is suggested that new experimental studies be carried out with samples that use only Bobath, to produce evidence of higher quality.