Integrating incentive spirometry and progressive muscle training in managing respiratory compromise in Guillain–Barré syndrome

Abstract

Background Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is one of the most common causes of acute neuromuscular paralysis in developed and developing countries. It is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by progressive skeletal muscle weakness, potentially involving respiratory muscles. The purpose of this case report was to explore the importance of combined use of incentive spirometry and progressive muscle training as essential therapies in a 20-year-old male diagnosed with GBS. Case presentation This is a case report of a 20-year-old Nigerian male university student who was brought to the trauma center on a wheelchair with weakness of both upper and lower limbs which was said to be progressive, and a diagnosis of GBS was made by the attending physician. On examination, he was discovered to have quadriparesis with mild respiratory muscle involvement. He deteriorated with cardiopulmonary compromise and was transferred into intensive care unit. He was managed with supplementary oxygen therapy until there was significant improvement and he was weaned off oxygen therapy and then needed further evaluation and management. The patient was placed on immunoglobulin in conjunction with incentive spirometry, progressive strengthening exercise and exercise training which proved to be effective as he regained all the lost function within a few weeks of symptoms. Results This intervention delves into the synergistic potential of fortifying respiratory muscles and improving respiratory function alongside overall muscle strength which resulted in the patient regaining all the lost function within a few weeks. Conclusions The combined use of incentive spirometry and progressive muscle training in addition to immunoglobulin was effective in modulating GBS related impairments. We recommend the use of a multifaceted strategy in the management of patients with GBS and other similar health conditions.