Physiotherapy Strategies for Redefining Recovery in a Patient With Grade II Ependymoma: A Case Report

Cureus, 2024 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58809 · Published: April 23, 2024

Simple Explanation

Ependymomas are tumors that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. This case report describes the physiotherapy treatment of a 40-year-old man with a grade II ependymoma who experienced lower limb weakness and sensory loss. The patient's physiotherapy rehabilitation was designed to help him regain functional independence. The treatment focused on preventing complications, normalizing muscle tone, strengthening pelvic floor muscles, and improving balance. The patient showed improvement in motor and sensory function, quality of life, and independence with daily activities after seven weeks of physiotherapy. This case highlights the potential benefits of physiotherapy for patients with spinal cord compression due to ependymomas.

Study Duration

Six weeks

Participants

A 40-year-old male with grade II ependymomas

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Report

Key Findings

1
The patient's motor score in the lower extremity improved from 0/50 to 20/50 on the ASIA Impairment Scale after physiotherapy rehabilitation.
2
The patient's sensory score for light touch improved from 17/56 to 30/56, and for pinprick, it improved from 34/112 to 60/112 on the ASIA Impairment Scale.
3
The patient's score on the WHOQOL improved from 40/100 to 60/100, and the Barthel Index improved from 20/100 to 40/100 after physiotherapy.

Research Summary

This case report describes the physiotherapy rehabilitation of a 40-year-old male with grade II ependymomas and spinal cord compression, focusing on improving functional recovery and quality of life. The physiotherapy interventions included exercises to prevent secondary complications, normalize muscle tone, strengthen pelvic floor muscles, improve balance, and integrate sensory input. The patient demonstrated significant improvements in motor and sensory function, quality of life, and independence in daily activities following seven weeks of physiotherapy, suggesting that PT rehabilitation works to enhance the standard of life of the patient by enhancing the functional recovery of the patient.

Practical Implications

Improved Functional Outcomes

Physiotherapy can lead to improved motor and sensory function in patients with spinal cord compression secondary to ependymomas.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Targeted physiotherapy interventions can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by non-traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Guidance for Future Studies

The physiotherapy protocol used in this case report can serve as a basis for future large-scale studies in SCI patients.