Effects of WATSU on pain: an integrative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34024/rnc.2025.v33.20459Keywords:
Hydrotherapy, Pain, hydrotherapyAbstract
Introduction. Watsu combines principles of Zen Shiatsu with immersion in heated water to relieve pain and promote well-being through gentle movements and buoyancy. Therapy in heated water (33-35°C) reduces nerve sensitivity, relaxes muscles, and alleviates pain, which is a public health problem and an individual and subjective experience that significantly affects an individual's life. Objective. To conduct an integrative literature review to investigate the effects of Watsu on pain reduction in different health conditions. Method. An integrative literature review conducted in the Scielo, Lilacs, PEDro, PubMed, and Cochrane databases, with different methodological designs, such as controlled or uncontrolled trials, randomized or non-randomized clinical trials, and case reports. Results. The search identified 69 articles, of which 14 were analyzed in full, resulting in the selection of 10 for the integrative review. Conclusion. The studies showed that Watsu is an effective therapeutic technique for pain relief, with the potential to improve the quality of life of individuals with different health conditions.
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References
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