Atuação fisioterapêutica e os benefícios dos exercícios aeróbicos no controle da ansiedade: uma revisão integrativa da literatura

Anxiety disorders represent a major global and national public health challenge, causing physiological impacts, sustained autonomic dysfunction, and musculoskeletal tension. This study aimed to analyze the physiotherapeutic approach and scientific evidence regarding the benefits provided by aerobic exercise in the management and control of anxiety. This is an integrative literature review structured according to the PICo framework and PRISMA guidelines, conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, Scopus (Elsevier) using Scopus AI, CAPES Periodicals Portal, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2016 to 2026. Eight primary studies investigating exercise protocols based on FITT principles (Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type) and kinetic-functional outcomes were critically analyzed and included. Results revealed that submaximal aerobic training (60% to 75% heart rate reserve or Borg scale 11–14), performed 2 to 3 times weekly for 30 to 50 minutes, promotes neuroendocrine regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, normalization of basal cortisol, upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and restoration of heart rate variability via parasympathetic vagal activation. Supervised physiotherapy combined with ventilatory retraining techniques played an essential role in interoceptive desensitization, reduction of kinesiophobia, and release of muscle tension in cervical and scapular regions. In conclusion, evidence-based physiotherapy represents a safe, effective, and indispensable non-pharmacological strategy within interdisciplinary mental health care.