Physical therapy in heart failure: effects on quality of life and exercise tolerance.

Abstract

Introduction: to analyze the scientific production of the last decade (2016–2026) regarding physiotherapeutic interventions in Heart Failure (HF), identifying the most prevalent methodologies and their impact on functional capacity and quality of life. Methodology: This is a bibliographical review with a mixed-methods (qualitative/quantitative) approach, conducted using the PubMed and VHL (BVS) databases. The search strategy employed controlled descriptors (DeCS/MeSH) crossed with Boolean operators. The selection process followed the PRISMA protocol guidelines, utilizing automated processing in R language for the screening of 273 initial records. After excluding duplicates, animal models, and previous reviews, the final sample consisted of 170 articles for full-text reading and data extraction. Results and Discussion: The analysis highlighted the predominance of conventional cardiovascular rehabilitation protocols and systemic exercises (aerobic, resistance, and high-intensity interval training), addressed in 96 publications, reaffirming them as the therapeutic reference for improving ejection fraction and reducing hospitalizations. With a lower frequency, but increasing relevance, adjuvant strategies stood out, such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (n=3), inspiratory muscle training (n=1), and methods focused on functional performance. Home-based cardiac rehabilitation emerged as a viable and safe alternative, showing higher adherence levels than traditional outpatient models. Conclusion: physiotherapeutic intervention is established as an indispensable pillar in HF management. The diversification of methodologies, integrating conventional exercises with technological and home-based therapies, allows for personalized care that reverses exercise intolerance, promotes autonomy, and significantly enhances the quality of life and dignity of patients.