Methods for evaluation and treatment of leprosy: a physiotherapy approach

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy is an infectious disease of slow evolution. Objective: In this study, it was aimed to survey the literature on methods of physiotherapy assessment and treatment for leprosy. Methods: This review was conducted through a search in the databases Lilacs, PubMed and PEDro. It was included studies published in the period of time between the years 1990 and 2010, in Portuguese and English. Results: It was found 73 articles in the PubMed, 8 in the Lilacs and 1 in the PEDro. After being applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 19 articles remained. Of these, could not access six studies. Thus, it was obtained a final sample of 13 articles. Conclusion: There is still a small scientific publication involving methods of assessment and treatment relevant to the physiotherapist, even with the significant clinical actuation of these professionals in individuals affected by leprosy.