Toxina Botulínica Associada À Fisioterapia Neurofuncional Em Pacientes Pediátricos Espásticos: Uma Revisão Integrativa Da Literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy (CP) is the leading cause of motor disability in children, affecting movement and posture due to non-progressive brain injuries during development. Globally, the prevalence of CP is 2 to 3 cases per 1,000 live births, with prematurity being a significant risk factor. Methodology: This study conducted an Integrative Literature Review to evaluate physical therapy approaches in children with spastic CP following the use of botulinum toxin (BTX). Descriptors such as Cerebral Palsy, Physiotherapy, Botulinum Toxin, and Spasticity were used, with searches performed in databases like PubMed and Cochrane. From an initial 153 articles, after exclusion of duplicates and screening, seven studies were selected for analysis. Results and Discussion: The results indicate that the combination of BTX with physical therapy improves functionality and quality of life in children with CP. BTX reduces muscle spasticity, allowing physical therapy interventions such as stretching and strengthening to be more effective, potentially delaying surgical interventions. Studies have shown that this integrated strategy promotes motor rehabilitation and contributes to increased patient independence. Conclusion: The combination of BTX and physical therapy is a promising approach in managing spasticity in CP, standing out as an effective treatment for improving motor functionality and quality of life in these patients, as well as providing a foundation for future research.