Constraint-induced movement therapy in a patient with ataxia after cerebellar tumor resection

Abstract

Introduction: Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) is a very modern method used in rehabilitation to treat individuals with functional impairment of the upper limbs. Objective: To apply the CIMT method and evaluate its effects in a patient with ataxia after removal of a cerebellar tumor. Method: This is a longitudinal interventional study of the case report type. The participant complained of tremors and difficulty writing and typing with the right hand as a result of the cerebellar tumor’s removal. She was subjected to CIMT daily in three-hour sessions for 10 days. The participant was evaluated with the Motor Activity Log (MAL) and the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT). Results: There was an improvement in the quantity, quality, speed, accuracy and strength with which the participant performed the tasks according to the MAL and WMFT scales. Improvement in writing was also identified and the report of better use of the member for daily tasks demonstrated the patient’s satisfaction after the end of therapy. Conclusion: This case report demonstrated the benefits of the application of the CIMT method in a patient with ataxia as a consequence of a rare cerebellar tumor, improving task execution time, strength and functional improvement of the affected upper limb.

Análise dos diferentes protocolos da terapia de movimento induzido por restrição do membro superior em crianças com sequelas neurológicas e seus principais efeitos: revisão integrativa da literatura

“…Quando ocorrida uma lesão, dependendo de seu grau e localização, pode ocorrer uma reorganização aberrante desse sistema como um meio de adaptação, em que as fibras do membro menos acometido apoiam a mobilidade do membro mais lesionado 10 . Sendo assim, a CIMT baseia-se no trabalho motor e neurocomportamental utilizado na reabilitação do membro superior assimétrico devido condições como a hemiplegia 6 . Na hemiplegia a sinalização cortical está ausente ou diminuída, fato esse que torna o movimento do membro afetado ineficiente 11 .…”