Efeito dos exercícios aeróbicos na reabilitação em pacientes com esclerose múltipla : uma revisão bibliográfica

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological, inflammatory, and autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing demyelinating lesions that compromise motor, cognitive, and sensory functions. It is one of the leading causes of neurological disability in young adults, directly impacting patients’ autonomy and quality of life. In this context, physiotherapeutic intervention plays a crucial role in symptom management and in maintaining functionality. This study aimed to analyze the effects of aerobic exercises in the physiotherapeutic rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis, focusing on the functional, respiratory, neuromuscular, and psychosocial benefits promoted by this type of intervention. The methodology adopted was an integrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on the analysis of articles published between 2012 and 2023, thus including 20, retrieved from databases such as PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, PEDro, and Google Scholar. Studies addressing aerobic interventions for patients with MS were selected, prioritizing publications with clear methodological criteria and full-text availability. The results indicated that regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, stationary cycling, and water aerobics, has positive effects on fatigue reduction, balance improvement, gait control, and cardiorespiratory conditioning. Furthermore, improvements in self-esteem, mood, and treatment adherence were observed—factors that are essential for the continuity of the rehabilitation process. It was concluded that aerobic exercises represent an effective, accessible, and safe physiotherapeutic strategy, provided they are applied with professional supervision and adapted to the clinical condition of the patient.