Resumo (EN)
Objective – To investigate the effects of hydrotherapy in respiratory function in patients with Down syndrome. Methods – The sample consisted of 7 individuals with Down syndrome, aged between 12 to 37 years (24 ± 8 years), 71,4% female. The participants performed a pre and post treatment in hydrotherapy. The evaluations consisted of manometer, circumference measurements, peak expiratory flow and test to sit and stand for a minute. The hydrotherapy treatment lasted on hour, once a week for ten weeks. Results – The analysis of results showed that treatment had positive influence on increase in maximum inspiratory pressure (51±13 x 59±11 cmH2O, P=0,06, 95%Cl) improvement in the values of expiratory flo peak (207±54 x 243±71, P = 0,01, 95%CI) and increased muscular endurance of the lower limbs (21±6 x 24±6, p=0,01, 95% CI). Conclusion – Hydrotherapy has proven effective in increasing muscle strength, peak expiratory flow and muscular endurance in individuals with Down syndrome.