Assessing Tetraplegic Patients' Neuro-Muscular Adaptations to a Six-Week Physiotherapeutic Programme

Global Journal of Health Science, 2012 · DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v4n5p30 · Published: July 5, 2012

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury can lead to devastating consequences, and a multidisciplinary approach is needed for tetraplegic patients to live as fully and independently as possible. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in preventing immobilization complications, reducing morbidity, and promoting recovery. This study examines how tetraplegic patients adapt to physiotherapy over six weeks. The results suggest that while musculoskeletal changes are inevitable, physiotherapy can minimize the extent of reduction in these parameters. The study highlights the importance of physiotherapy in maintaining and improving functions towards eventual mobilization of tetraplegics after acute care.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

15 patients with tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study revealed significant differences in the muscle girth measurements in majority of the body segments of the extremities of the patients measured.
2
Regular physiotherapy in the acute phase of care successfully reduced the risk of developing contractures to the barest minimum.
3
The intervention of regular passive mobilization, assisted active strengthening exercises and soft tissue mobilization techniques where necessary may have helped in reducing the rate and volume of muscle girth losses in these patients

Research Summary

This study investigated the effect of early physiotherapy measures on musculoskeletal parameters (muscle strength and girth, and joint range of movement) that are required for functional activities in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The outcome of the study revealed significant differences in the muscle girth measurements in majority of the body segments of the extremities of the patients measured. The study also recorded full range of motion on all the joints of the extremities measured throughout the study period. This has been achievable through the daily administration of passive mobilization of the limbs by the physiotherapists.

Practical Implications

Improved Musculoskeletal Health

Physiotherapy interventions can help minimize the degree of reduction in musculoskeletal parameters in tetraplegic patients, contributing to better overall physical health.

Prevention of Contractures

Early physiotherapy is crucial in preventing joint contractures, which can significantly hinder motor tasks and overall functionality.

Enhanced Respiratory Function

Physiotherapy, including deep breathing exercises, can improve respiratory muscle strength and lung ventilation capacity, reducing the risk of respiratory complications.

Study Limitations

1
Further research using a large sample size will be required to evaluate the physiologic adaptations of the neuromuscular system to the physiotherapy interventions among patients with spinal cord injury.
2
The range of motion of the knee joint was intentionally excluded in this study because of the chances of development of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the lower limb(s) of the patients which may lead to stiffness of the knee joint due eventually to withdrawal of passive mobilization of the knee joint in event of DVT.
3
Not specified

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