Improving functional outcomes and quality of life in an elderly woman with sarcopenia and spinal Tuberculosis: A case report

Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1076010 · Published: February 3, 2023

Simple Explanation

This case report discusses the rehabilitation of an elderly woman with spinal cord injury (SCI) caused by tuberculosis, along with sarcopenia (muscle loss). The patient received Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) interventions. The PRM strategy focused on improving her medical condition, preventing complications, promoting neurological recovery, and optimizing her physical function to enhance her quality of life. The patient showed improvements in functional ability and quality of life after three months of outpatient rehabilitation programs.

Study Duration

3 Months

Participants

One 68-year-old woman

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Report

Key Findings

1
PRM intervention is important in assessing functional disorders in the elderly to improve their quality of life.
2
The patient's Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) scores increased from 23 to 35 after three months of outpatient rehabilitation programs, reflecting improved functional ability.
3
The patient showed improved motor strength in the upper and lower extremities.

Research Summary

This case report highlights the importance of a rehabilitative intervention to detect functional disorders in the elderly, as it can help patients with SCI to improve ADL’s ability and QOL. The Physical Rehabilitation and Medicine (PRM) strategy focuses on improving medical conditions, including preventing secondary complications, promoting neurological recovery, and optimizing function. The patient's SCIM scores increased from 23 to 35 after three months of outpatient rehabilitation programs, which reflected an improvement in functional ability.

Practical Implications

Importance of PRM

Highlights the importance of PRM intervention in assessing functional disorders in the elderly to improve their quality of life.

Comprehensive Care

Emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving physiatrists, psychologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.

Personalized Rehabilitation

Demonstrates the benefits of tailored rehabilitation programs, including flexibility and strengthening exercises, ADL training, and psychological support.

Study Limitations

1
Single clinical case report with fewer factors for analysis and a lack of quantitative data strength and consistency in terms of evidence.
2
Clinical assessment of muscular spasms has only prior initial parameters and no ﬁnal parameters.
3
Absence of a urodynamic examination.

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