CONTEXT: Several studies have investigated the role of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in gait and balance disorder in elderly patients. Physiotherapy treatment has been shown to be possible, yet few studies have investigated its efficacy on motor and cognitive aspects of AD. OBJECTIVES: To identify randomised controlled trials (RCT) of physiotherapy treatment in AD patients so as to evaluate its efficacy on motor and cognitive functions. METHOD: Twenty RCTs were selected on 8 major databases (2000 to 2014; 1,083 AD subjects). Motor and cognitive results were measured (gait, balance, lower limb strength, getting up from bed or chair, and from the floor; MMSE and cognitive tests batteries). RESULTS: Cognition improved/stabilised according to 9 of the 11 articles assessing cognition. Motor function improved according to the 18 articles assessing functional capacities, except for walking speed, although gait quality improved at any given walking speed. CONCLUSION: This literature review confirms the beneficial effects of physiotherapy treatment on cognitive and functional capacities in AD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Non-applicable.

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