The effects of Watsu therapy on autonomic cardiovascular modulation and flexibility of children with cerebral palsy

Background: ‪We aimed to compare and examine the effect of aquatic interventions, Watsu® vs Immersion, on the autonomic nervous system and the range of motion in children with cerebral palsy, due to common belief that use of Watsu is beneficial for the special needs. ‪ Material and methods: Twenty-three children (age 7.5±2.8) were randomized to receive Watsu® therapy and Immersion interventions in the cross-over, age-stratified study. Each therapy session lasted 30 minutes twice a week for a total of 10 weeks in two non-consecutive periods. Short-term heart rate variability parameters by using a Polar H7 heart rate sensor with a signal processing software and the passive range of motion by using a universal goniometer was measured at baseline and post-treatment. Results: ‪Watsu® therapy significantly improved the heart rate variability parameter (pNN50, t = 2.312, p = 0.031) and lower flexibility (t = 6.012, p = 0.000) in comparison to immersion. Conclusions: ‪In comparison to immersion, Watsu® therapy was shown to be safe and effective for the autonomic modulation and flexibility of children with cerebral palsy. Therefore, it is recommended as a complementary tool for physical therapy on land.