POS: 174

ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR ASTRONAUTS

G S NEHA , Sapthagiri Institute of physiotherapy

SWATI MISHRA , Sapthagiri Institute of physiotherapy

Palaparthi V S Phanindra Akhil– Lecturer, Sapthagiri Institute of Physiotherapy

Prof. Sridhar A – Principal & HOD, Sapthagiri Institute of Physiotherapy

OBJECTIVES:

a) To find out the effectiveness of pre-flight and post – flight rehabilitation on astronauts.

b) To evaluate the musculoskeletal and neurological changes among astronaut.

DESIGN:

Review of literature: We have referred 21 articles from the year 2001 – 2021 and journals.

- Google scholar

- Pubmed

- Physiopedia

- Practo health articles

RESULT:

Based on the above evidences, we have found that techniques like “Advanced Resistive

Exercise Device” training helps to reduce the effects of microgravity on muscles and helps in

postural control. Post flight training if implemented within 24 hours of landing helps in regaining the muscle

balance and normalize the muscle recruitment strategies which were altered during spaceflight.

These techniques also help to regain muscle strength and endurance.

CONCLUSION:

Based on evidences available, physiotherapists train the astronauts with exercise programs to

prepare them for spaceflight [preconditioning] limits the effect of microgravity during the

mission and post flight retraining to enable safe and rapid recovery [reconditioning].

KEY WORDS:

ASTRONAUT, PRE-FLIGHT REHABILITATION , POST-FLIGHT REHABILITATION, RECONDITIONING.