The Effect of Hydrotherapy on Balance and Mobility in Post Stroke: Meta Analysis

Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability, affecting balance and mobility. Physical therapy rehabilitation efforts continue to be developed to optimize the recovery of motor function. Hydrotherapy, with the unique properties of the aquatic environment, is believed to offer therapeutic benefits in improving physical function and quality of life for post-stroke patients. This study aims to systematically and quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in improving balance and mobility in post-stroke patients using a meta-analysis approach. Methods: The study was conducted by reviewing the literature from the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases from 2016 to 2025. Inclusion criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating hydrotherapy interventions in post-stroke patients with outcomes related to balance and mobility. Data analysis was performed using a random-effects model with calculation of the standardized mean difference (SMD) and a heterogeneity test (I²). Results: A total of 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of the meta-analysis showed that hydrotherapy was effective in improving balance (SMD = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.09 to 1.59; p=0.03; I² = 90%) and mobility (SMD = -0.28; 95% CI: -1.37–0.80; p=0.61; I² = 95%) compared to conventional land-based physical therapy interventions. Conclusion: In post stroke patients, hydrotherapy significantly improves balance, while its effect on mobility remains inconclusive. This intervention is worth considering as part of a physical therapy rehabilitation program. However, further research with more consistent methodological designs is still needed to strengthen the scientific evidence.