Malignant Spinal Cord Compression-Adapting Conventional Rehabilitation Approaches

Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am, 2017 · DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2016.08.007 · Published: February 1, 2017

Oncology Neurorehabilitation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Spinal tumors are categorized into extradural, intradural extramedullary, and intradural intramedullary types. These tumors can compress the spinal cord, compromise blood supply, and cause pain or neurological issues. They can also destabilize the spine. Oncologic treatments for spinal tumors include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapies, tailored to spinal stability, neurological status, and pain levels. Rehabilitation, when combined with oncologic management, helps relieve symptoms, improve life quality, enhance independence, and prevent complications in patients with malignant spinal cord compression.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Localized spine pain is the most common symptom in patients with epidural spinal cord compression at the time of diagnosis.
2
Motor weakness is the second most common symptom in patients with epidural spinal cord compression at the time of diagnosis.
3
Principles of neuro-rehabilitation applied to patients with traumatic spinal cord injury are equally appropriate for patients with spinal tumors.

Research Summary

Spinal tumors can be classified into extradural, intradural extramedullary and intradural intramedullary tumors. Management of spinal tumors varies according to the stability of the spine, neurological status and pain. Principles of neuro-rehabilitation applied to patients with traumatic spinal cord injury are equally appropriate for patients with spinal tumors.

Practical Implications

Pain Management

Understanding the etiology of pain (local, mechanical, radicular) is crucial for effective treatment, utilizing postural bracing, medications, and modalities.

Functional Independence

Rehabilitation programs should focus on strengthening, range of motion, transfer training, and assistive devices to maximize functional independence.

Prevention of Complications

Implementing spinal precautions, bracing, and core strengthening exercises can minimize the risk of spinal instability.

Study Limitations

1
The article is a synopsis and does not present original research data.
2
Specific rehabilitation protocols are not detailed, requiring clinicians to adapt general principles.
3
The article acknowledges that the demographic profiles of neoplastic SCI may differ from traumatic SCI.

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