Abstract: Objective: Explore the effects of the aquatic therapy on balance and gait function of stroke patients, to provide a basis for the more standardized and effective application of aquatic therapy in clinical practice. Methods: Eight electronic databases, such as PubMed etc. were comprehensively searched from their inception to February 12, 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, evaluated the quality and extracted information. Revman 5.4.1 software was used to analyze the data after the quality was assessed. Results: A total of 16 Randomized Controlled Trials were finally included. The Meta-analysis results showed that compared with the control group, the experimental group patients who received aquatic therapy intervention had higher Berg Balance Scale and Functional Reach Test scores in terms of balance function, and lower Time Up and Go Test scores; At the same time, the experimental group of patients who received aquatic therapy intervention had faster gait speed, larger stride amplitude, and longer walking distance. Conclusion: The aquatic therapy can significantly improve balance function and walking function of stroke patients.

Key words: aquatic therapy; stroke; balance; gait; Meta-analysis