MANUAL THERAPY AND RESPIRATORY KINESIOTHERAPY COMBINED WITH THE PILATES METHOD IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH CORONARY ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Abstract

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive disease characterized by the accumulation of lipid plaques in arterial walls, leading to reduced blood flow, endothelial changes, and increased cardiovascular risk. Beyond cardiovascular repercussions, elderly patients often exhibit decreased functional capacity, exercise intolerance, respiratory changes, and musculoskeletal limitations that directly compromise their quality of life. Objective: To analyze the effects of physiotherapy—specifically manual therapy, kinesiotherapy, breathing exercises, aerobic exercise, and the Pilates Method—on improving functional capacity, physical conditioning, and respiratory function, as well as reducing cardiovascular risk factors in geriatric patients with atherosclerosis. Methodology: This is a descriptive, qualitative, and interpretive case study combined with a literature review conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, PEDro, and Google Scholar databases, covering studies published between 2020 and 2026. Articles related to cardiovascular physiotherapy, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and the Pilates Method applied to patients with cardiovascular conditions were analyzed. Results: Findings demonstrated improvements in mobility, functional capacity, postural balance, physical conditioning, exercise tolerance, and respiratory performance. Aerobic exercise and kinesiotherapy had a positive impact on physical endurance and the reduction of sedentary behavior. The Pilates Method fostered postural control, muscle strengthening, and body stability. Manual therapy contributed to reduced muscle tension and improved mobility, while breathing exercises promoted ventilatory improvements and greater respiratory efficiency. Conclusion: The integration of manual therapy, kinesiotherapy, aerobic exercise, breathing exercises, and the Pilates Method demonstrated effectiveness in improving functional, respiratory, and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atherosclerosis. The integrated physiotherapeutic approach proved to be safe, effective, and grounded in current scientific evidence, contributing to the promotion of quality of life, the prevention of cardiovascular complications, and the strengthening of physiotherapeutic rehabilitation in geriatric patients.