Effects of a neurofunctional physiotherapy protocol on a patient with tropical paraparesis: a case report

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of neurofunctional physiotherapy on a patient with Paraparesis Tropical Spastic (TSP). Methods: The case study (qualitative and analytical) was developed in the Clínica Escola de Fisioterapia (CEF), of the Universidade Estadual da Paraiba (UEPB) and was carried out in a female patient, who has the diagnosis of TSP and is being attended regularly at CEF. The patient was assessed using the neurofunctional sector form at the CEF and the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire. After establishing the physiotherapeutic diagnosis and therapeutic objectives, the patient underwent 10 physiotherapy sessions, twice a week, lasting 60 minutes. The protocol consisted of aerobic training, muscle strengthening for the lower limbs and functional training. The study was submitted to the Research Ethics Committee of the institution and approved under number 5,618,377. Results: The patient, 38 years old, had been diagnosed since the age of 24. She has a spastic gait and walks with the aid of crutches. She is functionally independent in certain tasks and is motivated and participative in treatment. After the protocol, she showed an increase in range of motion in hip adduction and extension, knee flexion, and a gain in muscle strength in hip extension and knee flexion, as well as a subtle improvement in static balance. The results of the quality-of-life questionnaire showed a subtle improvement in the vitality and functional capacity domains. Conclusion: This case study reinforces the importance of establishing protocols for individuals with TSP with an emphasis on individual needs.