SUSTAINABLE BALANCE CIRCUIT: INTEGRATING PHYSIOTHERAPY AND THE REUSE OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS IN A HOME SETTING

Abstract

This article describes and analyzes the “Sustainable Balance Circuit” project, developed by physiotherapy students in Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará (CE). The project aimed to integrate physiotherapy practices focused on balance and functional mobility with the use of low-cost, recyclable materials within a primary healthcare context. It is an applied study—specifically a descriptive case study—conducted in a home setting, utilizing repurposed PET bottles and broomsticks as therapeutic tools. The circuit included exercises for shoulder flexion and abduction, knee extension, stretching, and balance activities designed to improve joint mobility, motor coordination, muscle strength, and body awareness among participants. These activities aligned with recommendations from multicomponent programs for fall prevention and functional promotion found in the literature (BRASIL, 2010; KISNER; COLBY, 2016). The project served patients linked to the Pirajá Basic Health Unit (UBS), with a planned schedule of four weekly sessions per patient during the intervention period, although the circuit was administered directly to two participants during a specific phase. Results indicated perceived functional improvement, increased participation in home-based exercises, and greater awareness regarding material reuse; these findings are consistent with evidence regarding the benefits of structured therapeutic exercises for motor control and postural stability (SHUMWAY-COOK; WOOLLACOTT, 2003; O’SULLIVAN; SCHMITZ, 2010). Furthermore, the project fostered the development of practical skills, therapeutic planning capabilities, and environmental awareness among the students, reflecting contemporary trends in health education focused on comprehensive care (TEIXEIRA et al., 2014). Key limitations included the small number of participants, the home-based setting, and restricted availability of materials and time. It is concluded that the sustainable therapeutic circuit is a viable, accessible, and educational strategy, with the potential for expansion into health services and community projects.